The Ojitos Trail

Greg Lewandowski
See Greg's Photography online

​​The Ojitos trail can be found 8 miles down 151 off of 84. This is the monastery road. Be cautious on 151 there are very sharp switch backs and plenty of opportunity to slide off the road. Just at 8 miles on the left is a small parking are with some forestry boards up with info about the area. Skull bridge is also right there.
 
On the right is the tailhead (TH). There is a pole marker near the TH. It’s a narrow trail and starts off uphill over rocky terrain. This is part of the Continental Divide Trail. It is well traveled and well maintained. There are no forks to worry about. Watch for switchbacks. As you hike up you will begin to see over your shoulder excellent views of the Chama River Valley, part of the Chama River Wilderness. I stopped frequently to take in these majestic views. The trail goes through a few clearings, some narrow uphill spots and always rocky.
 
After about 2 miles you will go through a forested area. Quite lovely with the light through the trees as it hits the trail. After 4 miles you will have reached the top of the ridge where the trail flattens out. You will have climbed 1600 feet of elevation in 4 miles. On the top are more majestic views of the valley. I hiked another 2 miles before turning back. I found the top of the ridge to be a great spot for a backpacking trip. The morning and evening light on the red rock walls and the river would make for some great photos.
 
I would rate this to be a moderately difficult hike. It took me about 7 hours and I covered close to 12 miles.
 
Prep
Hiking poles
Sturdy hiking boots
Although this is a day hike it is still a wilderness hike and I always carry appropriate equipment A search and rescue device, I use Garmin inReach.
A GPS, I use the Gaia app on my iPhone. It will track me back if I get off the trail and I save the trail on my unit.
I took 2L of water although I didn’t use it all I always pack a head lamp.
 
Be safe and enjoy our wilderness area.