Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 10.7-mile round trip as an out and back
Directions: From US 84, Forest Road 151 head west then northwest along the Rio Chama for 9.1 miles to Skull Bridge. The bridge is closed to vehicle traffic and can be accessed along a dirt road coinciding with the CDT.
Maps:
USGS 7.5 Quadrangles: Echo Amphitheater, Laguna Peak
For More Information:
Santa Fe National Forest: http://fs.fed.us/r3/sfe/recreation/wilderness.htm
Santa Fe National Forest’s Coyote Ranger District: (505) 638-5526.
Renowned painter Georgia O’Keefe found inspiration in this beautiful countryside. Start your hike near Abiquiu Reservoir at Skull Bridge but do not be deterred by the name because this 10.7-mile hike is short, easy, and very scenic with sandstones cliffs in warm reds and oranges. The Rio Chama is one of the most impressive rivers in New Mexico and attracts kayakers, rafters, and canoeists to the canyon. On the Trail, a gradual elevation gain into Ojitos Canyon provides a rewarding view of one of the most picturesque sites in all of New Mexico. This is also a popular trail for equestrians.
Family Friendly Option
If you would like a shorter option head out on the Trail along the Chama River into Ojitos Canyon for 2 miles and turn around for a 4-mile round trip, out and back adventure.
