The hike begins from the Winsor Trail (#254) trailhead at Santa Fe Ski Basin, and immediately begins ascending the southeastern slopes of Aspen Peak. At roughly three-quarters of a mile from the trailhead, after climbing a fairly steep 600 feet, hikers will reach the saddle on the eastern flank of Aspen Peak. At the top you’ll pass through a gate to enter the 224,000-acre Pecos Wilderness Area. At 10,850, this saddle also marks the highest point on this hike. From this point forward the trail makes a gentle descent all the way to La Vega.
The first portions of the hike pass through a predominantly spruce-fir forest, which is also characterized by an abundance of Bearded Lichen, also known as Old Man's Beard, hanging from the branches. This is always a welcome sign, as it usually indicates that you’re in the midst of some very clean air. Old Man's Beard is extremely sensitive to air pollution, especially sulfur dioxide.
Roughly half-way to your destination the conifers give way to one of the largest and thickest aspen forests I’ve ever walked through. Although popular in the summer, this would also make for an excellent fall hike when the aspen leaves turn to brilliant shades of orange and yellow. One of the most interesting aspects of aspens is that they grow in colonies. A large grove of aspens could be the result of just one single seedling that spreads by means of its root system. While each individual tree within a colony can live for 40–150 years above ground, the root system can live for extended periods. One such example is the aspen colony in Utah known as “Pando,” which covers more than 100 acres and is thought to be up to 14,000 years old!
At roughly 2.3 miles the trail crosses over Rio Nambe, and at roughly 2.5 miles you’ll arrive at the Upper Nambe Trail (#101) junction. You should turn left onto Upper Nambe Trail to continue towards La Vega. From this junction the Winsor Trail continues towards Santa Fe Baldy and Lake Katherine, two other popular destinations in this area.Hikers will travel along the Upper Nambe Trail for roughly one-half mile until reaching a tributary of the Rio Nambe. Almost immediately after crossing this stream you’ll reach the Rio Nambe Trail (#160) junction. You should turn left here. La Vega is roughly a quarter-mile away from this junction.
La Vega, as you likely expected, is a large grassy meadow. During the summer, from mid-June through mid-August, the meadow is filled with wildflowers, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful meadows in the region. It also offers nice views of 12,632-foot Santa Fe Baldy.
La Vega can be incorporated into a variety of day loops and backpacking trips. In fact, there’s a backcountry campsite on the far end of the meadow beneath a grove of trees with a small stream running nearby that would make for a very nice camping spot.
Trails: Winsor 254 / Upper Nambe 101/ Rio Nambe 160
RT Distance: 6.5 miles
Elevation Gain: Roughly 1400 feet
Max Elevation: Roughly 10,850 feet
TH Location: Near Santa Fe Ski Basin
Map: Santa Fe National Forest
Santa Fe - Taos Hiking Guide: - The Santa Fe - Taos area contains a wide selection of easily accessible trails throughout its mountains and high desert places - where outdoor enthusiasts can explore the diverse topography and ecosystems of northern New Mexico year-round. Now for the first time in one convenient volume, veteran local guidebook author Bob D'Antonio introduces you to 52 great hikes within an hour of these two towns. From alpine peaks to sage-covered mesas, northern New Mexico offers incredible hiking opportunities - and this guide leads you to the best.
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