When you want to truly experience the beauty of New Mexico, lace up your hiking boots and go for a hike. Here’s a trail that takes you along the water and through some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.

You’ll find the trailhead for the Three Rivers Trail at the Three Rivers Campground in the White Mountain Wilderness Area of the Lincoln National Forest.

Alex Beattie/Alltrails

This beautiful trail is 11 miles out and back, and you’ll want to get an early start in order to make the summit before noon.

Lisa Widmer/Alltrails

You’ll follow the river for several miles along the trail.

Lisa Widmer/Alltrails

The water level here varies throughout the year; some months it’s just barely a trickle, others it’s more robust.

Douglas Paddock/Alltrails

The trail leads you through shaded, forested areas…

Lisa Widmer/Alltrails

…and up the side of the mountain. This hike is considered moderate; you’ll gain 3,444 feet of elevation along the way, though most of it is gradual enough that most hikers can handle it if they take their time.

Kile Kuzma/Alltrails

The towering cliffs and rock formations are jaw-dropping. This trail is typically fairly peaceful and quiet, so you’ll likely enjoy a bit of solitude during your journey.

Christian Baca/Alltrails

Take your time to breathe in the fresh air and bask in the natural beauty of this wild place.

Douglas Paddock/Alltrails

Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to endless views.

Noah Schaich/Alltrails

Have you hiked the Three Rivers Trail? We’d love to hear about your experience!

Alex Beattie/Alltrails

Lisa Widmer/Alltrails

Douglas Paddock/Alltrails

Kile Kuzma/Alltrails

Christian Baca/Alltrails

Noah Schaich/Alltrails

Ready to experience more of New Mexico’s natural beauty? Take this magnificent bridge trail!

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