Moderate Shuttle Hike in the Santa Fe Mountains: Winsor Trailhead to Chamisa Trailhead

Have you ever wondered where the Winsor Trail goes if you hike downhill from the Winsor Trailhead at the top of the Santa Fe Ski Basin Road? Join me to find out on this scenic point-to-point hike from the Winsor Trailhead to the Chamisa Trailhead.

This route offers a little of everything: shady forests, open meadows, mountain streams, riparian habitat, scenic valleys, abundant wildflowers, and nice mountain views.

We'll begin by leaving one or two vehicles at the Chamisa Trailhead, then carpool to the Winsor Trailhead to start the hike. Although the route is mostly downhill (about 3,000 feet of descent), it also includes approximately 700 feet of climbing. We'll hike at a moderate pace and stop when needed to admire and identify the wildflowers.

Hike Details:

• Distance: 8–9 miles
• Elevation gain: ~700 feet
• Elevation loss: ~3,000 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate (the long descent can be strenuous on the knees)
• Drive from Los Alamos to Chamisa Trailhead: ~50 minutes
• Shuttle drive from Chamisa to Winsor Trailhead: Less than 20 minutes

Please Bring

• Hiking poles (strongly recommended)
• Plenty of water
• Lunch and snacks
• Layered clothing for changing mountain weather
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses

Meeting Time & Location

7:30 a.m. at the Los Alamos County parking area on Iris Street.

To make the shuttle work, we'll need at least two vehicles for groups of up to five hikers and three vehicles if we have six or more participants. I'll provide one shuttle vehicle.

RSVP

Please email Olivia with:

• Your interest in joining the hike.
• Whether you'd like to carpool from Los Alamos/White Rock or meet us at the Chamisa Trailhead.
• Whether you can provide a shuttle vehicle and, if so, how many passengers you can take.

Note: I'll be out of town and will reply to all emails early next week.