Hiking Las Cruces: Aguirre Spring Recreation Area [Pine Tree National Recreation Trail] [Baylor Pass National Recreation Trail]

 


Where is Aguirre Spring Recreation Area?

Aguirre Spring is located just East of Las Cruces, on the East side of the Organ Mountains.

Why visit Aguirre Spring Recreation Area?

Aguirre Spring offers spectacular views of the Organ Mountains and Tularosa Basin. Trailheads for two National Recreation Trails reside within the recreation area. Inexpensive camping, with limited amenities, is also available.


What should one expect on the trails at Aguirre Spring Recreation Area?

Before setting out for the trails at Aguirre Spring, one should know that the last four miles of the access road are a winding and increasingly steep one-way loop. The road is paved and was in good condition when I visited, but please exercise caution and patience when arriving or departing the recreation area. Also, know that these trails are popular, so expect to encounter other hikers rather frequently.

The Pine Tree National Recreation Trail is a 4-mile loop. Starting from approximately 5,500 feet above sea level, the trail features just over 1,000 feet of elevation gain. The trail offers constant views, either of the Organ Mountains or the Tularosa Valley. Among the iconic Organ Mountain sights you'll be treated to are Rabbit Ears, the Needles, and Sugarloaf Peak. 


The path is generally gentle grades on packed dirt, with some rocky sections. The scenery is varied, as part of the trail is primarily desert landscapes and parts of the trail feel more like a forest. There are quite a few Ponderosa Pines near the higher elevations of the hike, and keep an eye out for Alligator Juniper (the bark resembles alligator skin, due to its "scales).

The Baylor Pass National Recreation Trail is a 6-mile out and back (12-mile round trip) trail. From the eastern trailhead, at Aguirre Spring, it requires 2 miles of hiking and 700 feet of elevation gain to reach the saddle. From the western trailhead, on Baylor Canyon Road, it requires four miles of hiking and 1,500 feet of elevation gain. The trail climbs steadily from either trailhead towards the summit. The eastern side is similar to the Pine Tree Trail, while the western side is more exposed and desert-like, with large stone steps in sections.

The views are, again, fantastic. In addition to some familiar sights from the Pine Tree Trail, hikers will get up close and personal with Baylor Peak. It is possible to follow an unofficial side trail to the summit; the terrain is substantially more difficult, so please exercise caution if opting for this side route. Looking West are views of the Doña Ana Mountains and Las Cruces.

Be aware of the possibility of encountering rattlesnakes, or even mountain lions, on these trails. Be alert, and know how to manage an encounter, should one occur. Bringing enough water and protecting your skin from the sun are also vital elements of these hikes, especially during the warmer months.


Is there camping at Aguirre Spring Recreation Area?

There are 55 first come-first served campsites available, as well as two group sites that can be reserved. As of this writing, the individual sites are $7/night and group sites are $50/night. Certain Recreational Vehicles may have difficulty accessing the campground, due to the steep, winding access road.

Amenities include sun shelters, tent pads, pit toilets, picnic tables, and grills or fire rings. Water is available only at the entrance to the recreation area. Because it is the highest (and coolest) campground in the area, it is a popular attraction during the summer.

See the "Helpful Links" section for additional information and current rates.

Are pets allowed at Aguirre Spring Recreation Area?

Leashed pets are allowed within the recreation area.

Is there a fee to hike at Aguirre Spring Recreation Area?

A day use fee applies to Aguirre Spring Recreation Area. As of this writing, the day use fee is $5.

See the "Helpful Links" section to confirm current rates.

Helpful Links:

Bureau of Land Management - Aguirre Spring

Aguirre Spring Brochure  

Pine Tree Trail Map

Baylor Canyon Trail Map 

 

Check out the YouTube video!



Location: Aguirre Spring Campground, Aguirre Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM 88011, USA

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