Are dogs allowed on Rift Valley Loop Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Rift Valley Loop Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Rift Valley Loop Trail?

No, Rift Valley Loop Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Rift Valley Loop Trail?

Rift Valley Loop Trail is rated difficult. It is 10.3 miles long with 1,342 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Is Rift Valley Loop Trail suitable for kids?

Rift Valley Loop Trail is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See New Mexico trail conditions

DifficultLoop

New Mexico

Rift Valley Loop Trail

Ranchos de Taos, New Mexico

10.3 mi

Distance

1,342 ft

Elev. Gain

Loop

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The trail is located in Ranchos De Taos, New Mexico. The east rim of the Rio Grande Gorge is where the Rift Valley Trail is located. Big horn sheep are frequently seen in the area, and the trail provides spectacular views of the gorge. The option to adjust the loop distance is provided by the intersecting shorter trails. The trail is used for mountain biking but also for hiking and horseback riding. Look for the "Friends of the Rift Trail" bench.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:2,010 ft

Max:2,131 ft

409 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

No reviews yet

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context