The Land of Enchantment and its wide open spaces are meant for exploring. And there’s so much of New Mexico to explore! From mountains to valleys, lakes, and rivers, we have countless trails that lead to breathtaking scenery and the best views in New Mexico. If you’re looking for a hike that takes you to one of the most stunning overlooks, look no further than the Pueblo Alto Trail in San Juan County. We can almost guarantee its beauty will take your breath away.

The Chaco Culture National Historical Park is a remote preserve in Nageezi, New Mexico. Its mission is to preserve "ancestral Puebloan culture dating between 850 and 1250 CE."
Robert Neal/AllTrails
There are a total of four backcountry trails that meander through this nearly 34,000-acre park. There's the Wijiji Trail, the South Mesa Trail, the Peñasco Blanco Trail, and the Pueblo Alto Trail. Today we are going to focus on the Pueblo Alto Trail.
Elizabeth LaBreeck/AllTrails
The trailhead for the Pueblo Alto Trail can be found at the Pueblo de Arroyo Parking Area. While this trail is 3.2 miles round trip, you can add an additional two miles in order to take in the views from a little-known overlook.
Todd Bradley/AllTrails

Related Stories

The Tsankawi Unit At Bandelier National Monument In New Mexico Will Be Closing In Mid-March: Here's What To Do In The Meantime

The Tsankawi Unit At Bandelier National Monument In New Mexico Will Be Closing In Mid-March: Here's What To Do In The Meantime

 New Mexico's Carlsbad Caverns National Park Turns 100 Years Old In 2023, And It's Time For A Visit

New Mexico's Carlsbad Caverns National Park Turns 100 Years Old In 2023, And It's Time For A Visit

 This Scenic Drive Runs Straight Through New Mexico's White Sands National Park, And It's A Breathtaking Journey

This Scenic Drive Runs Straight Through New Mexico's White Sands National Park, And It's A Breathtaking Journey
The roundtrip to the overlook and back should take approximately 3-4 hours with an elevation gain of 270 feet. Come prepared with plenty of water and sturdy hiking boots to trek along the rugged terrain.
Dick Dalton/AllTrails
Once you get to the overlook, the views are just spectacular! No wonder it's one of the best overlooks in New Mexico! Not only will you see the San Juan Basin but also numerous Chacoan buildings that are important to the Chaco culture.
Lloyd Levy/AllTrails
There's truly no other hike quite like this with views overlooking an ancient historical site, and it's one worth adding to your bucket list.
Megan Deemer/AllTrails

Have you ever taken this hike to the Pueblo Bonito Overlook in New Mexico? Do you agree that it has one of the best views in New Mexico? Share your experience in the comment section below. We always love to hear from you! To learn more about the Pueblo Alto Trail at Chaco Culture National Historical Park, as well as the other park offerings, visit the National Park Service website. Also be sure to check out AllTrails+, where you can find detailed maps as well as other helpful information from other hikers.

Do you enjoy exploring the great outdoors? Check out these underrated New Mexico state parks.

7 Lesser-Known State Parks In New Mexico That Will Absolutely Amaze You

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Views In New Mexico

Katie Feldkamp | February 20, 2024

What are some of the best hikes in New Mexico for kids?

A favorite question that nearly every child knows to ask is, “Are we there yet?” The next time you want to take young ones on a hike and would like to avoid hearing that question, consider these short and sweet hikes that are kid-friendly:

  • Boca Negra Upper Canyon in Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque
  • Bosque Loop Trail at Rio Grande Nature Center State Park in Albuquerque
  • Butterfly Trail at Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Roswell

For more information on these and several more options, check out this article on the best hikes in New Mexico for kids.

Where can some of the best views in New Mexico be found?

The natural beauty of New Mexico seems to know no bounds with its varying landscapes. When the mountains are calling your name, consider making the journey to see one of these mountain peaks – whether up close or from a distance, they are simply some of the best views in New Mexico:

  • Wheeler Peak, which is part of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Taos
  • Sierra Blanca Peak in the Sacramento Mountains near Capitan
  • Chicoma Mountain, which is part of the Jemez Mountains near Espanola
  • Mount Taylor is an extinct volcano in the San Mateo Mountains

For more information on these and several more, check out this article on jaw-dropping mountains in New Mexico.

Related Articles

Explore New Mexico

Featured Addresses
Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico, USA