Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Rio Quemado Falls
Rio Quemado Falls is a lesser-known waterfall located in the Carson National Forest in New Mexico. It is surrounded by lush forested areas and offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors. The waterfall is not widely documented, so details about its exact height and flow are limited.
The Setting
Rio Quemado Falls sits at 11,135 feet within Santa Fe National Forest, in the high alpine of New Mexico.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Rio Quemado (#153), a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 300 feet of elevation gain with grades of +12-20%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
RIO QUEMADO #153
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
9.34 miTrail Description
The trail to Rio Quemado Falls winds through a forested area with moderate elevation gain. The path may include rocky or uneven sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The trail is not heavily trafficked, offering a peaceful hiking experience.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Rio Quemado Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rio Quemado Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have the most water flow during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September). Check with Santa Fe National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Carry a map or GPS device, as trails in the area may not be well-marked.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Truchas hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Rio Quemado Falls is located within the Carson National Forest. Access typically involves driving to a trailhead near the Rio Quemado area. Specific directions may vary, so consulting local maps or guides is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
11135 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.983774° N, -105.652167° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be moderately challenging. Check weather conditions before your visit, as rain can make the trail slippery. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
This trail sits at 11,135 ft — roughly 30% less oxygen than sea level
Extreme AltitudeAt this elevation, altitude sickness is a real concern. Monitor how you feel, take frequent rest breaks, and descend if symptoms worsen. Visitors arriving from lower elevations should allow time to acclimatize.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Boost Oxygen 10L Canister (2-Pack)
Portable supplemental oxygen for quick relief from headaches and shortness of breath.
Altitude Rx OxyBoost Complex
Antioxidant formula designed to support your body's natural altitude acclimation.
Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Monitor blood oxygen in real time — SpO2 commonly drops to 85–90% above 10,000 ft.
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With 2.0 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder
Serenity
Rexies Place
Walkable Adobe-Style Abode w/ Community Amenities!
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
SANTA BARBARA CAMPGROUND
7.6 miles away · 21 sites
Overview Santa Barbara Campground is situated nicely on the edge of the Pecos Wilderness area and next to Rio Santa Barbara, a beautiful and healthy trout stream.Recreation This is a great drop off point for hikers and horseback riders seeking close access to the Pecos Wilderness and Jicarita Peak.Facilities The campground has 15 single sites, each containing a table and fire ring; two double sites, each containing two tables and a fire ring; one triple site containing three tables and a fire rin
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
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Montezuma Hot Springs
Montezuma Hot Springs produces 138 °F water at 6,840 feet elevation in San Miguel County — a full 88 degrees above the local an...
Montezuma Hot Springs
Montezuma Hot Springs consists of 20 to 30 individual thermal vents at 6,729 feet elevation near Las Vegas, New Mexico. Also kn...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Truchas, New Mexico on SoakingSprings.
Explore New Mexico springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Carson National Forest offers numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The nearby town of Taos is also worth exploring for its cultural and historical attractions.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of the potential presence of bears and take appropriate precautions.
Cities near Rio Quemado Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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