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A beautiful canyon trail opening up to a series of small meadows, and topping out to some big views.


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Map Key

2.9

Miles

4.7

KM

71%

Runnable

11,915' 3,632 m

High

10,067' 3,068 m

Low

1,848' 563 m

Up

0' 0 m

Down

12%

Avg Grade (7°)

24%

Max Grade (14°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Need to Know

There are restroom facilities at the trailhead and in the village in the Lower Plaza by the ice rink.

The trailhead is within walking distance to numerous shops, eateries, markets, and lodging. For more information, check out TaosSkiValley.com.

Description

Long Canyon Trail is accessed by way of Wheeler Peak Trail (USFS Trail #90) (sometimes called Bull of the Woods Trail). The trailhead is adjacent to the Twining Campground in the Village of Taos Ski Valley. Parking is available below the campground, at the upper end of the ski resort parking lot. There is no parking permitted beyond this point. At the trailhead, there is a map of the wilderness including trails.

The Long Canyon Trail intersects Wheeler Peak Trail on the left at approximately .6 miles from the Twining Trailhead. It is marked with a USFS sign.

Long Canyon Trail climbs steadily along the Long Canyon Creek, then reaches a series of small meadows before making a right to climb out of the canyon. Mixed conifers and aspen characterize this trail and many species of wildflowers along the drainage. Once out of the canyon, the views looking east and up toward the Wheeler Peak Wilderness and Taos Ski Valley are beautiful.

Long Canyon Trail connects with Gold Hill Trail (USFS Trail #64) and makes for a great loop hike or summit hike to Gold Hill.

The upper reaches of the trail are steeper and for this reason, an avalanche danger exists during the winter and early spring. Water is available for most of the length of the canyon, but should be treated before consumption. For short trips, take a supply of water from home or other domestic source. Day hiking, backpacking, and horse riding, as well as backcountry camping are all permitted along the entire length of the trail. ​If you pack it in, please pack it out. Motorized vehicle use is not allowed.

This trail provides access to Goose Lake (USFS Trail #65), Gold Hill Trail (USFS Trail #64), and Lobo Peak Trail (USFS Trail #57).

WARNING: During summer months, daily lightning and thunderstorm activity is typical. Check the weather forecast before you go. If you plan to climb Gold Hill (12,115 ft.), summiting before noon is recommended.

Flora & Fauna

This hike follows several creeks with abundant wildflower viewing. The forest is a mix of aspen, spruce and fir trees. A great hike for viewing the golden aspen in Fall.

Contacts

Shared By:

Chamber TSV

Trail Ratings

  3.3 from 3 votes

#8

in Red River

#26585

Overall
  3.3 from 3 votes
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Trail Rankings

#8

in Red River

#393

in New Mexico

#26,585

Overall
8 Views Last Month
1,263 Since Mar 22, 2019
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Photos

Where the trail climbs out of the canyon, this is the view looking east toward Wheeler Peak and the ski resort.
Apr 30, 2019 near Taos Sk…, NM
The upper meadow area at the top of the canyon.
Apr 30, 2019 near Taos Sk…, NM
Long Canyon Trail
Apr 30, 2019 near Taos Sk…, NM
Upper end of the Long Canyon Trail and not far from the Gold Hill Trail junction.
Apr 30, 2019 near Taos Sk…, NM
Hiking through the small meadows on the upper end of the canyon.
Apr 30, 2019 near Taos Sk…, NM

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