Hiking the West Rim Trail, 8/03/2019

As our stay in Taos draws to a close, we wanted to make one more hike along the stunning Rio Grande Gorge. One of the closest (and easiest) trails begins at the Rio Grande Gorge Rest Area (on the left) after crossing the Gorge Bridge on Rte 64 west. A sign near the parking area indicates the trailhead. It begins in a sagebrush prairie and then follows the rim of the gorge.

The entire West Rim Trail is 10 miles out and back; and, is also a popular biking trail. It is located within the boundaries of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. We planned on doing a couple of miles each way. Flat and well-marked, this is an easy trail for hikers of all ages. Views of the bridge at the beginning of the trail are amazing.

Bring plenty of water because there is virtually no shade along the trail. (There are water fountains at the rest area.)  After the first ½ mile we did not encounter other hikers, but we did see several bicyclists. Benches are strategically positioned along the rim for hikers to rest and enjoy the views of the river. 

We spotted these rafters going through the rapids on the river about 600-650 feet below. Looked like great fun!

A portion of the trail was rocky, but that only lasted for a short distance. Close up views of the volcanic rock of the gorge walls were pretty incredible.

Evidence of another creek flowing into the Rio Grande could be seen on the East Rim of the gorge.

We came upon this rock circle and prayer flags along the trail. Interesting…

As the trail continued through the prairie, we could see the mountains in the distance and some cliffs of the gorge. It was so quiet and beautiful. The more time we spend in nature, the more we enjoy it. 

After about 2 miles in the hot sun, our sweet doggie, Sadie, just plunked in the middle of the trail. We were getting pretty hot, too, so we decided this was the turnaround point (about 2 miles out).

After plenty of water (John always carries plenty for all of us!), we made the return hike. It was uneventful, but I never grow weary of the views of the Rio Grande Gorge. 

For additional information about West Rim and other hiking trails in the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, go to www.blm.gov/visit/rgdnnm, or visit one of their two Visitor Centers.