Wahatoya Trail
This hike explores a new section of trail through several volcanic dikes on the south side of West Spanish Peak. The dikes are fascinating and the views into New Mexico go forever on a clear day. The trail winds through forests of bristlecone, limber, and lodgepole pine, aspen, spruce, subalpine fir, and white fir with some Gambel oak for good measure. An unmarked overlook by a little dike provides a good view of East Spanish Peak—a good turnaround point for the out-and-back hiker. After the overlook, the hike continues descending to an old Forest Service cabin then climbs to the saddle between the two peaks. It descends a final time along the north side of West Spanish Peak to Forest Service Road 442 and on to County Road 360. The new trail was cut in 1999, and final tread should be finished in 2002. This area was designated official wilderness on November 7, 2000.
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Directions to: Wahatoya Trail
print directionsTrail Statistics & Information
| Activity | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Nearby City | La Veta |
| Length | 11.8 mi |
| Elevation Gain | 2,780 ft |
| Skill Level | Difficult |
| Duration | 5 - 8 hours |
| Season | Best from June to mid-November |
| Trailhead Elevation | 9,440 ft |
| Top Elevation | 10,960 ft |
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