New Mexico may be known mainly for its arid deserts encompassing most of the state. Yet, it has a diverse landscape, not to forget the splendid waterfalls intensifying its beauty to the fullest. Most of them sit hidden in the mountains and canyons or amidst wilderness areas, while some lie just by the roadside accessed easily. Seeing the waterfall, especially after a tiring hike under the scorching sun, is indeed a blissful experience. A trip to the waterfalls would for sure not end there but lead you to other fascinating geological formations, hot springs, and other fascinating locations in the surrounding. So, for a perfect getaway and ultimate visual retreat, a trip to a few of these waterfalls is something you ought not to miss.
It dramatically cascades in two tiers in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Nambe Pueblo. While the higher section is over 100 feet, the lower one is about 75 feet tall. Remember, that it remains open only from Thursday till Sunday from 7 AM to 7 PM. There is a parking fee of $ 15 that you will have to pay in cash.
You’ll also find a lake nearby where you can rent a kayak and have a fulfilling time exploring around or even fishing.
Nearest City: About 28.5 miles from Santa Fe
Hiking & Other Activities: Two trails lead to the waterfall, each a quarter-mile long. The first one leads to an overlook where you can witness both the tiers from the top. However, the lower trail offers incredible views from the base. Wearing waterproof hiking shoes is a must as you will need to wade through the river and rocky paths to get there. Also, make sure to visit the upper falls from here, which you can access by scrambling over some steep rocks. A picnic area and several campsites are also available in the vicinity.
This waterfall earns its unusual name from the plank-board walkway set atop an old steel pipe that once supplied water to an ore processing plant. You can see the ruins of this plant near the parking area. Besides these, the fascinating rock formations and historical foundations around are worth exploring. The waterfall itself is spectacular, cascading in a desert region. You will have to pay $ 3 per vehicle as a parking fee.
Nearest City: About 5 miles from Glenwood
Hiking & Other Activities: The first section of the 1-mile trail from the parking lot is relatively easy, leading to many stunning pools and the gorgeous waterfall. Beyond this, you can also explore and hike other underdeveloped trails that lead to Gila Wilderness. However, do remember to take permission from the Forest Service before accessing the area. Camping options are also available in the Glenwood region. The adjacent Whitewater Creek provides opportunities for fishing Gila trout and picnicking.
Tucked away in the heart of Lincoln National Forest, a desert oasis features this 150-foot waterfall pouring through a canyon into a large pool below. Though it cascades in a narrow stream in summer, enjoying a refreshing dip below it is excellent, especially after a tiring drive. You can also explore the surroundings to get additional views. To access the falls, you will have to pay a parking fee of $ 5 per vehicle.
Nearest City: About 43 miles from Carlsbad
Hiking & Other Activities: The trail from the parking lot to the falls is a short one. However, you can hike the surrounding trails. Picnic tables and camping spots are also available within the area.
Soda Dam Falls is unique because it cascades over and through the dam, formed naturally by calcium deposits over the years. The rock formations and small caves here make the place more fascinating and fun to explore. Though there is a pervading smell of sulfur, you can enjoy taking a dip or soaking your feet in the shallow waters. Despite being visible from the road, it is worth parking your cars for free and experiencing the waterfall from closer proximity.
Nearest City: About 1.5 miles from Jemez Springs
Hiking & Other Activities: It’s a roadside waterfall, making it easily accessible without hiking. But, you can clamber the rocks and see several little hot springs.
White Rock Overlook Park offers spectacular views of the Rio Grande, alongside providing several recreational activities. Besides these, it also features a lovely 130-foot waterfall called Canada Del Buey Falls or White Rock Falls. Bring your cameras to capture the different angles of the waterfall from the viewing platform, accessed through a short paved path from the park.
Nearest City: About 10.5 miles from Los Alamos
Hiking & Other Activities:. There is also a playground and picnic area inside the park, where one could enjoy several outdoor sports or a family get-together.
You’ll find this waterfall flowing within Soledad Canyon Day Use Area in southern New Mexico. Located at the juncture of Bar Canyon and Soledad Canyon in the western foothills of Organ Mountains, it pours down as a mere trickle or a gushing cascade, depending on the rainfall. The surrounding mountainous views are breathtaking. You can also witness the ruins of an old stone house nearby, a homestead in the early 20th century.
Nearest City: About 14 miles from Las Cruces
Hiking & Other Activities: This waterfall is accessible by a 3.5-mile loop, Soledad Canyon Trail. It is well maintained and starts from the east side of the parking lot. Hikers of any skill level can tread along it and also enjoy seeing other scenic vistas and wildlife species like deer and oryx. It takes about half an hour to one hour to reach the waterfall.
Often touted as the state’s stunning waterfall, the 70-foot Jemez Falls is in Santa Fe National Forest. Nestled amidst the evergreen forest and boulders, it boasts picturesque views. You can enjoy cooling off in the shallow pool above the waterfall or take a dip in the warm waters of the McCauley Hot Springs, accessible by a 4-mile hike.
Nearest City: About 17 miles from Jemez Springs
Hiking & Other Activities: It’s a quarter-mile trail to the scenic overlook, the starting point of which is past the campground. Few picnic tables are also there in the area. There are more hiking trails along which you can see many more natural wonders. An overnight stay in the pine ponderosa near the waterfall would be an ideal way to spend some time in nature.
This seasonal waterfall pours down a series of nine cascades within a private property. Besides viewing them, you can also explore the nearby caves or the one behind the waterfall. Accessing the area requires an entry fee of $5 per adult.
Nearest City: About 11 miles from Taoz
Hiking & Other Activities: A parking area is available at the end of El Salto Road. You’ll find the trailhead past the green gate, where you will have to hike up the gradual incline.
This hidden gem tucked away in the San Pedro Parks Wilderness Area offers splendid views of the encompassing alpine meadows and moss-covered rocks. It comprises three tiers, among which the upper one dramatically pours through a hole in the granite rock wall. Locals and tourists alike enjoy spending overnight at the primitive campsites here. You can also hike to the nearby Lichen Falls if craving to see two waterfalls in a day. No fee is required to access the waterfall or the campsites.
Nearest City: About 34.5 miles from Abiquiu
Hiking & Other Activities: To get to the waterfall, you need to hike the trail past the Resumidero campsite or upstream Rio Puerco River from the Rio Puerco campsite. Picnicking is another sought-after activity. Besides these, there are other trails available here.
More than a typical waterfall, Three Rivers Waterslides is a stream of water flowing on massive rocks like a slide. This spot in Lincoln National Forest offers tranquility, ideal for spending a quiet and relaxing time. Be sure to visit the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site on the way to witness the stunning rock arts of the prehistoric Jornada Mogollon.
Nearest City: About 27 miles from Carrizozo
Hiking & Other Activities: There’s a hiking trail of about 11 miles and rated as difficult. You will also be treated with many small waterfalls and other scenic wonders and wildlife species as you tread along it. Carry plenty of water and hiking poles to access the trail. There are also many rustic campsites in the canyon area.
This is a lesser-known waterfall on the Frijoles River tucked away in the Bandelier National Monument. The surrounding geological formations, like the tent rocks, are fascinating. As the waterfall reduces to a trickle or even dries up in the hot seasons, it is best to come here during the monsoon. You will also find smaller waterfalls flowing along the river here. An entrance fee of $15 per person or $20 per motorcycle, with up to two people, is mandatory, valid for seven days.
Nearest City: About 43.5 miles from Santa Fe
Hiking & Other Activities: The 1.5-mile trail starts from the visitor center at the end of the parking lot and traverses downhill to the Upper Falls. Starting early in the morning would save you from the scorching sun but do bring plenty of water. Some of the popular activities here include wildlife watching and picnicking.
This scenic waterfall is in Fillmore Canyon in the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. The views are impressive, especially when the waterfall pours down the canyon walls into the pool below. With the lush flora and shade, you can enjoy a break here after a tiring hike. The perfect time to visit it is after a decent rainfall, and there’s a parking fee of $3 per vehicle for day use.
Nearest City: About 13.5 miles Las Cruces
Hiking & Other Activities: Hiking the one-mile Fillmore Canyon Trail will bring you to the waterfall. It is moderate in difficulty level. Wildlife watching and picnicking are some sought-after activities.
It sits amidst huge rocks and boulders near the gorgeous canyons of Holden Prong in Gila National Forest. There are many scenic pools in the area as well, boasting aspen and conifer forests.
Nearest City: About 62 miles from Hillsboro
Hiking & Other Activities: As you hike along Trail 114, you will come across this waterfall along with other small cascades and pools. Tread along the entire trail to see the beautiful canyons.
TOP PICKS
Best Waterfalls for Hiking: Bar Canyon-Soledad Canyon Waterfall, Jemez Falls, Upper Frijoles Falls
Best Waterfalls for Swimming: Sitting Bull Falls, Jemez Falls
Best Waterfalls for Camping: Jemez Falls, Resumidero Falls, Nambe Falls
Best Hidden Waterfalls: Resumidero Falls, Three Rivers Waterslide, Fillmore Falls
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