Explore the Untamed Beauty of Columbine-Hondo Wilderness
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Columbine-Hondo Wilderness, a national reserve perfect for outdoor adventures in New Mexico.
Nestled in the heart of northern New Mexico, the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness offers tourists a breathtaking escape into nature. With its rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife, this national reserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Experience the thrill of hiking, camping, and fishing in this pristine wilderness, where stunning vistas and tranquil surroundings await.
A brief summary to Columbine-Hondo Wilderness
- Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico, 87525, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the wilderness.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the rugged terrain safely.
- Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
- Be prepared for wildlife encounters; keep a safe distance and do not feed animals.
Getting There
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Car
From Taos Ski Valley, begin by heading south on NM-150. Continue on NM-150 for about 6 miles. Look for the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness sign on your right. There is a parking area available at the trailhead located just off NM-150. Make sure you have a valid parking pass if required.
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Public Transportation
While there are limited public transportation options directly to the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness, you can take a shuttle service from the Taos area to Taos Ski Valley. Once in Taos Ski Valley, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you to the trailhead on NM-150, which is about 6 miles south of the village. Confirm with the driver that they know the area and can drop you off at the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness parking area.
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Hiking
If you are already in the Taos Ski Valley and prefer to hike, you can start your journey on the trails that lead from the village towards NM-150. It is about a 1.5 to 2-hour hike to reach the trailhead of the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness. Ensure you are prepared with appropriate gear, as the terrain can be rugged.
Discover more about Columbine-Hondo Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Largo Canyon
8.3 km
Discover the stunning vistas and serene trails of Largo Canyon in New Mexico, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Edelweiss Lodge & Spa
8.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of adventure and luxury at Edelweiss Lodge & Spa, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Taos Ski Valley.
Eis Haus & Ice Rink
8.5 km
Eis Haus & Ice Rink in Taos Ski Valley: Experience enchanting ice skating amidst breathtaking mountain scenery for all ages.
The Blake at Taos Ski Valley
8.5 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Blake at Taos Ski Valley, your perfect alpine retreat for skiing and relaxation in New Mexico's majestic mountains.
A A Taos Ski Valley Wilderness
8.5 km
Discover the enchanting A A Taos Ski Valley Wilderness, a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers in the stunning landscapes of New Mexico.
El Salto del Agua Cave & Waterfall
13.5 km
Explore El Salto del Agua Cave & Waterfall, an enchanting historical landmark in Arroyo Seco, New Mexico, surrounded by breathtaking nature and rich history.
Venado Peak
15.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Venado Peak in New Mexico, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Hlaukwima (South House) of Taos Pueblo
24.0 km
Explore Hlaukwima (South House) in Taos Pueblo, a historic landmark showcasing Native American heritage and culture amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Enchanted Circle Gateway Museum & Visitor Center
25.3 km
Explore the captivating history of Eagle Nest, NM, at the Enchanted Circle Gateway Museum & Visitor Center – your gateway to local culture and heritage.
Hacienda del Sol
26.3 km
Experience the tranquility and charm of Taos at Hacienda del Sol, the perfect hotel for relaxation and adventure in New Mexico.
Rio Grande Rift Historical Marker
27.5 km
Discover the geological wonders and rich history at the Rio Grande Rift Historical Marker in El Prado, New Mexico, a hidden gem for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Mabel Dodge Luhan House
27.5 km
Experience the rich artistic history and serene beauty of Mabel Dodge Luhan House, a historic hotel in the heart of Taos, New Mexico.
Jones Walker of Taos
27.7 km
Explore the vibrant art scene at Jones Walker of Taos, where local artists showcase their unique creations in a charming gallery setting.
Taos Blue
27.7 km
Explore Taos Blue, an inspiring art gallery in Taos, NM, showcasing local masterpieces and celebrating the vibrant artistic culture of the region.
Sky-Eagle Collection, Fashion & Fine Art Gallery
27.7 km
Explore the Sky-Eagle Collection in Taos, where fashion meets fine art in a vibrant cultural hub celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lobo Peak
5.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures of Lobo Peak, a must-visit mountain destination in New Mexico's stunning landscape.
Gavilan Trail
7.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Gavilan Trail, a premier hiking destination in Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Italianos Canyon Trail 59 Trailhead
7.7 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Italianos Canyon Trail in Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico, a must-visit hiking destination for nature lovers.
Snow Bear at Taos Ski Valley
8.1 km
Experience the thrill of skiing in the breathtaking landscapes of Snow Bear at Taos Ski Valley, where winter adventures await.
Twining Campground
8.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Twining Campground in Taos Ski Valley, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers in New Mexico.
The Lounge at Taos Ski Valley by Rolling Still Distillery
8.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Taos Ski Valley with handcrafted cocktails and stunning mountain views at The Lounge by Rolling Still Distillery.
Village of Taos Ski Valley
8.5 km
Experience the thrill of skiing and the beauty of nature in the enchanting Village of Taos Ski Valley, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Manzanita Canyon Trailhead
8.6 km
Discover the breathtaking trails of Manzanita Canyon Trailhead in Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Bull of the Woods Mtn
9.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Bull of the Woods Mountain in Taos Ski Valley, a national forest offering stunning views, outdoor adventures, and abundant wildlife.
Middle Fork Lake Trailhead
10.0 km
Discover the natural beauty of Middle Fork Lake Trailhead in Taos Ski Valley, a perfect hiking destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Rubezuhl Trail Head
10.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Rubezuhl Trail Head in Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico, where adventure and nature await every hiker.
Taos Bike Park
10.7 km
Experience the ultimate mountain biking adventure in Taos Bike Park, where thrilling trails meet breathtaking New Mexican landscapes.
Middle Fork Lake
10.7 km
Explore Middle Fork Lake in Taos Ski Valley, an idyllic hiking area that showcases stunning alpine landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
Red River Ski & Summer Area
10.7 km
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Wheeler Peak Trail Sign
10.9 km
Discover the stunning beauty and adventure of Wheeler Peak Trail in Taos Ski Valley, a hiking paradise in the heart of New Mexico.
Essential places to dine
The Blonde Bear Tavern & Cafe
8.4 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at The Blonde Bear Tavern & Cafe in Taos Ski Valley - where rustic charm meets gourmet cuisine.
Taos Ale House - TSV
8.4 km
Discover delightful cuisine and craft beers at Taos Ale House in beautiful Taos Ski Valley—your perfect après-ski destination.
Hotel St. Bernard Restaurant
8.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Hotel St. Bernard Restaurant in Taos Ski Valley amidst stunning mountain vistas.
192 at The Blake
8.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at 192 at The Blake in Taos Ski Valley—where American flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
Rhoda's Restaurant
8.5 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning mountain views at Rhoda's Restaurant in Taos Ski Valley.
Whistlestop Cafe
9.1 km
Discover cozy dining at Whistlestop Cafe in Taos Ski Valley - where hearty meals meet warm hospitality amidst breathtaking mountain views.
The Bavarian Restaurant
10.6 km
Experience authentic Bavarian flavors amidst stunning mountain views at The Bavarian Restaurant in Taos Ski Valley.
Shotgun Willie's
11.2 km
Discover hearty meals and warm hospitality at Shotgun Willie's, your go-to spot in scenic Red River, New Mexico.
Sundance Mexican Restaurant
11.5 km
Discover vibrant flavors at Sundance Mexican Restaurant in Red River - where authentic Mexican cuisine meets warm hospitality.
ACEQ
16.0 km
Discover ACEQ in Arroyo Seco - where American cuisine meets rustic charm amidst stunning landscapes.
Medley.
21.4 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at Medley in El Prado, where local flavors meet culinary creativity in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery
24.2 km
Discover culinary delights at Farmhouse Cafe & Bakery in El Prado - where fresh ingredients meet New Mexican charm.
Tiwa Kitchen
24.4 km
Discover authentic Native American cuisine at Tiwa Kitchen in Taos, NM - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Orlando's
25.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at Orlando's in Taos – where every meal is a celebration of tradition and taste.
Ricky's
26.1 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at Ricky's in Taos - where each dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Taos Fly Dawg Fly Fishing Lanyards
8.1 km
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Taos Toffee
8.1 km
Discover the sweet charm of Taos Toffee, your go-to candy store for handmade chocolates and delicious toffees in Taos Ski Valley.
Cottam's Ski Shops
8.4 km
Discover top-quality ski and snowboard rentals at Cottam's Ski Shops in Taos Ski Valley, where expert service meets winter fun.
Confluence
8.4 km
Discover Confluence in Taos Ski Valley: The ultimate boutique for outdoor gear, local art, and unique gifts amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Cid’s Mountain Market
8.4 km
Discover Cid's Mountain Market in Taos Ski Valley, your go-to convenience store for snacks, essentials, and friendly service amidst the stunning mountain backdrop.
Loteria Paleteria
8.5 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Loteria Paleteria, a charming bakery offering artisanal paletas and pastries in the stunning Taos Ski Valley.
Bumps Market
8.5 km
Explore Bumps Market in Taos Ski Valley for local groceries and organic delights amidst stunning mountain scenery.
US Post Office
8.5 km
Experience the unique charm of Taos Ski Valley's Post Office, where postal services meet local treasures in a stunning mountain setting.
Taos Ski & Boot
8.5 km
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Andean Software
8.5 km
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Taos Sports
8.5 km
Discover an exceptional ski rental service at Taos Sports, the gateway to your alpine adventure in Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico.
Black Diamond Espresso
8.5 km
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Jay's Unique Thrift Store
9.3 km
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The Candy Crate and Candy Mountain Fudge
11.2 km
Discover a world of sweet delights at The Candy Crate and Candy Mountain Fudge, your go-to candy store in Red River, NM.
Gold Nugget
11.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snow Bear Inn & Condominiums
8.1 km
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Der Garten
8.4 km
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Level renewal bar
8.4 km
Experience the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation at Level Renewal Bar, your premier medical spa in the scenic Taos Ski Valley.
Hondo Restaurant
8.5 km
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Sunny's
8.5 km
Discover the flavors of New Mexico at Sunny's, a cozy restaurant in the heart of Taos Ski Valley, perfect for après-ski dining.
Martini Tree room
8.5 km
Discover the Martini Tree Room in Taos Ski Valley, a cozy bar with an impressive selection of martinis and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Phoenix Grill
10.7 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes in a cozy atmosphere at The Phoenix Grill, your go-to dining spot in Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico.
Red River Brewing Company & Distillery
11.2 km
Experience the heart of Red River at the Red River Brewing Company & Distillery, where local craft beer meets vibrant community spirit.
boars head bar
11.2 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Boars Head Bar, a grill-style gem in Red River, New Mexico.
Bull O' the Woods Saloon
11.4 km
Discover the lively Bull O' the Woods Saloon in Red River, NM - where great drinks, delicious food, and entertainment come together in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Motherlode Saloon
11.5 km
Experience the lively ambiance and delicious drinks at Motherlode Saloon in Red River, NM, the perfect spot to unwind after your adventures.
Mountain View Bar & Lounge
14.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of scenic views and relaxation at Mountain View Bar & Lounge in Valdez, NM.
DALEEE at KTAOS SOLAR CENTER
22.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at DALEEE, the premier bar located at KTAOS Solar Center in beautiful El Prado, New Mexico.
KTAOS Solar Center
22.8 km
Discover KTAOS Solar Center - A dynamic bar and concert venue in Taos, New Mexico, blending great food, live music, and a commitment to sustainability.
Taos Mesa Brewing
24.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of craft beer in a stunning New Mexico setting at Taos Mesa Brewing, where local culture meets exceptional brewing.
