Carson National Forest
Devisadero Loop Trail 108

Camino Real Ranger District

Elevations:

• Trail Beginning: 7,200 ft at El Nogal Picnic Area
• Trail End: 7,200 ft at El Nogal Picnic Area

To get here follow US Highway 64 about 3 miles east of Taos to the signed El Nogal Picnic Area. The trailhead is across the highway from the picnic area.

About 1/4 mile from the trailhead, the trail forks. The right fork heads directly uphill to Devisadero Peak, 8,304 feet. The left fork heads back in and uses several switchbacks to gain the ridgeline where you can then follow the trail eastward to the summit of Devisadero Peak.

Devisadero means a "lookout" place or point. The Taos Pueblo Indians use to use this peak to watch for Apache raiders coming down Taos Canyon bent on raiding Taos Pueblo.

This 5 mile loop trail has several vista overlooks that give great views of Taos, Taos Pueblo, San Antonio Mountain, the Rio Grande Gorge and the Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area. On the southern slopes of the trail you'll pass through pinons, juniper and gambel oaks. On the north-facing slopes you'll be in tall white and Douglas firs.

This trail sees heavy summer and fall use by hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. Winter and early spring sees lots of cross country skiers and snowshoers on the trail.

Rating: Expert, with an elevation gain of 1,104 feet

USGS Quad: Taos