5 Beginner-Friendly Hiking Trails in Farmington with Stunning Views
New to hiking or just want an easy, scenic walk? Farmington, NM, offers beginner-friendly trails perfect for everyone. From peaceful river paths to stunning desert views, you can enjoy nature without steep climbs.
Locals and visitors alike will love the accessible routes, many of which are family-friendly with shaded spots and stroller-friendly paths. Stroll along the Animas River, explore open mesas, or enjoy panoramic overlooks—all without breaking a sweat. Farmington’s trails are perfect for relaxing adventures at any pace. Ready to explore? Start here!
1. Animas River Trails – A Relaxing Stroll by the Water
The Animas River Trails are perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful walk by the water. This well-maintained path follows the Animas River, offering a scenic and relaxing experience for hikers of all ages. The sounds of the flowing river, the fresh air, and the abundance of trees make it a refreshing place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Why It’s Great for Beginners
The trail is mostly flat and well-paved, making it ideal for those new to hiking. Unlike rugged trails that require sturdy boots, you can easily walk this path in comfortable sneakers. There are benches along the way, so you can take a break and enjoy the view. Plus, the shaded sections make it a comfortable choice on warm days.
Scenic Highlights
Walking along the Animas River, you’ll see beautiful trees, vibrant seasonal foliage, and even some wildlife like ducks and herons. During the fall, the golden hues of the trees create a breathtaking scene. In the spring, flowers bloom along the riverbanks, adding bursts of color to the landscape.
Accessibility
This trail is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, making it an excellent option for families with young kids or anyone needing an easy route. If you’re visiting with grandparents or friends who aren’t used to hiking, this is a great trail where everyone can participate.
Best Time to Visit
For the best experience, visit early in the morning or around sunset. The lighting is beautiful, and you’ll avoid the midday crowds. If you enjoy photography, this is one of the best spots to capture the soft reflections of the sky on the water.
2. Among The Waters Park and Trail – A Peaceful Riverside Walk
If you’re looking for a lesser-known spot with equally stunning views, Among The Waters Park and Trail is a hidden gem. It’s a short and easy loop, making it a great option for a quick nature escape. This trail is perfect for those who enjoy solitude and want to avoid busier hiking areas.
Why It’s Great for Beginners
With minimal elevation gain, this trail is easy to navigate. The loop design ensures you don’t have to worry about getting lost, and the short distance means you can enjoy a hike without much effort. It’s a fantastic place for beginners to build confidence before trying longer trails.
Scenic Highlights
You’ll be walking alongside the Animas River, surrounded by lush greenery and open skies. On a breezy day, you can hear the rustling of the leaves, making it an incredibly peaceful experience.
Wildlife & Nature
This area is home to plenty of birdlife, including herons, ducks, and smaller songbirds. If you’re lucky, you might spot a rabbit darting through the grass or see turtles sunbathing on the riverbank. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
Amenities
There are benches and picnic areas along the trail, making it a perfect spot to bring a snack and relax in a quiet environment. Whether you want to read a book under the shade or have lunch with a view, this trail is a great choice.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal times to visit when the temperatures are cooler and the scenery is at its best. The fresh green foliage in spring and the golden leaves in autumn make each season special.
3. Lions Wilderness Park Trail – An Easy Desert Adventure
Lions Wilderness Park Trail offers an easy hike with rewarding panoramic views for those who want a taste of Farmington’s desert landscapes. This is a great spot for those who want to experience the rugged beauty of New Mexico without tackling a steep climb.
Why It’s Great for Beginners
This trail has wide, well-marked paths with a gentle incline. The terrain is manageable, even for those who are new to hiking. Unlike rocky trails that require careful footing, this one allows you to focus on enjoying the views.
Scenic Highlights
The desert scenery is breathtaking, with rolling hills, rock formations, and open spaces that make you feel like you’re in another world. The sunsets here are especially stunning, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange.
Nearby Attractions
If you want to explore more, this trail is close to the Glade Run Recreation Area, where you can enjoy additional outdoor activities. If you’re into mountain biking, this is a great area to check out.
Best Time to Visit
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to hike here, as the desert heat can be strong during the midday hours.
4. Angel Peak Scenic Area – A Stunning Overlook with Easy Trails
If you’re looking for breathtaking panoramic views that are easy to reach, Angel Peak Scenic Area is a must-visit. Just a short drive from Farmington, this area has easy, beginner-friendly trails and scenic overlooks that highlight the beauty of the high desert. You can take a short walk to admire the dramatic rock formations or simply enjoy the views from one of the overlooks.
Why It’s Great for Beginners
The trails here are mostly flat and easy to follow, making them accessible for hikers of all skill levels. Even if you don’t feel like hiking, you can simply drive to the designated overlooks and enjoy the spectacular views without breaking a sweat.
Scenic Highlights
Angel Peak rises dramatically above the surrounding badlands, creating an awe-inspiring landscape. The layered rock formations, deep canyons, and vast open skies make this spot a photographer’s dream. The colors shift beautifully during sunrise and sunset, casting an incredible glow over the area.
Wildlife & Nature
This area is home to desert wildlife, including eagles, hawks, and small mammals. The unique rock formations and sparse vegetation create a peaceful, otherworldly atmosphere that’s perfect for a quiet nature walk.
Best Time to Visit
Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit for stunning lighting and cooler temperatures. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the trails and enjoying the views.
5. Chaco Culture National Historic Park – A Walk Through Ancient History
Chaco Culture National Historic Park is a must-visit for those who want a mix of easy hiking and a fascinating glimpse into ancient history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located about an hour and a half from Farmington and offers short, beginner-friendly trails that lead to incredible archaeological ruins.
Why It’s Great for Beginners
Most of the trails here are relatively short and easy to navigate, with well-marked paths leading to historic Puebloan structures. The terrain is mostly flat, making it a great choice for those new to hiking who still want a rewarding and educational experience.
Scenic Highlights
The park is home to some of the most significant ancient ruins in the Southwest, including Pueblo Bonito, Chetro Ketl, and Una Vida. Walking through these structures feels like stepping back in time, as you’ll see impressive sandstone buildings that date back over 1,000 years. The wide-open desert landscape and striking rock formations make the scenery just as impressive as the history.
Wildlife & Nature
Chaco Canyon is home to diverse wildlife, including ravens, hawks, lizards, and jackrabbits. The high desert environment also showcases beautiful native plants, such as yucca and sagebrush.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to the mild weather. Summers can be extremely hot, and winters can bring chilly winds. If you can, try to visit during a full moon or one of the park’s stargazing events—the night sky here is one of the clearest in North America!
Tips for Enjoying Your First Hike in Farmington
If you’re new to hiking, here are a few simple tips to ensure you have a great time:
- What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring plenty of water, and apply sunscreen. A hat and sunglasses can also help protect you from the sun. If you’re planning to stay out for a while, bring a small snack like trail mix or granola bars.
- Trail Etiquette: Be courteous to other trail users. If you’re on a shared trail with bikers, step aside to let them pass. Stick to marked paths and avoid disturbing wildlife. Always leave no trace—pack out any trash you bring in.
- Safety Tips: Check the weather before heading out, and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day. Mornings and late afternoons are the best times to go. Let someone know where you’re going, especially if you’re hiking alone.
Discovering Farmington’s Scenic Trails
Exploring Farmington’s beginner-friendly trails is a fantastic way to experience the area’s natural beauty without needing advanced hiking skills. Whether you’re strolling along the Animas River, wandering through peaceful piñon woodlands, or soaking in the desert views, these trails offer a perfect blend of accessibility and scenic charm.
Hiking doesn’t have to be challenging to be rewarding. Sometimes, the best moments happen on a simple, quiet walk in nature. So grab your walking shoes, bring a friend or family member, and enjoy the great outdoors in Farmington!