Carson National Forest
Maquinita Canyon Trail

Tres Piedras Ranger District

Elevations:

• Trail Beginning: 8,700 to 9,400 ft, depending on the trail
• Trail End: 8,600 to 9,200 ft, depending on the trail

These trails are most heavily used in the winter for snowshoing and cross country skiing, although snowmobiles are allowed (just not often seen).

Trails 1, 2 and 6 begin and end at 9,100 feet. The entrance to these trails is at the junction of US 64 and Forest Road 795 (there is a sign for 795 on US 64). Trails 3 and 4 begin and end at 8,640 feet at the junction of US 64 and Forest Road 718 (there is a sign for Maquinita Canyon on US 64). Trail 5 begins about 1 mile west of Trails 1, 2 and 6 at a wire gate on the south side of US 64 and ends at the beginning of Trails 3 and 4. Forest Road 718 is about 15 miles west of Tres Piedras on US Highway 64. Forest Road 795 is another 1.5 miles further west on US 64.

The Maquinita Canyon area covers about 6 square miles and includes Deer Trail Canyon (where US 64 runs) and Maquinita Canyon to the south. There are a couple of gentle valleys in between. These drainages slope downhill to the northeast and intersect US 64 at the lower ends. Snow depth mid-winter is typically over 3 feet and can last well into May, making these valleys and canyons great for winter and spring cross country skiing. The trails are marked with blue diamonds and the intersections are marked with arrows on posts indicating possible routes.

The nearest facilities are 15 miles to the east in Tres Piedras, so pack out everything you pack in. If you should get lost, just go down the hill because all drainages lead back to US 64. Be aware of fallen branches and logs under the snow. Most of this terrain is fairly gentle but coming off some of the ridges and encountering firm snow may make you wish your skills were better. This canyon also gives access to Burned Mountain for more advanced skiers.

Rating: Novice, intermediate and expert, depending on the trail

USGS Quad: Burned Mountain