The Land of Enchantment is home to some pretty incredible and unique hikes. From white sand to desert areas to even the most gorgeous mountain terrain, there is a hike for you. If you are up for a challenge, love a thrill, and want to explore an unforgettable trail, head to the Organ Needles Trail. This unique hike in New Mexico will take you to Needles Peak, the highest peak in the Organ Mountains. However, be aware that this trail is not for the faint of heart — it is often called one of the scariest and most difficult hikes in New Mexico.
The Organ Needles Trail is not designed for the average hiker. To complete this trail, you should have significant hiking experience behind you, own proper hiking equipment, and be physically fit.
Maria Villarreal/AllTrails
This trail is 5.8 miles. It is certainly not one of the longest trails in New Mexico, but it is one of the most challenging.
Michael Priday/AllTrails
You will climb nearly 4,000 feet in just a few short miles. It is going to test you both physically and mentally.
Bryan Egner/AllTrails
In fact, there is even a warning sign on this trail. To stay safe, make sure you heed all of the instructions on the sign.
Grant Tosterud/AllTrails
The trail begins at the La Cueva picnic area in the Dripping Springs Natural Area. At the beginning of your hike, you’ll feel quite good. The trail isn’t too steep and not that difficult.
Kyle Tymon/AllTrails However, you will eventually come to a large yellow rock formation. This is where the challenge begins.
The trail becomes extremely steep in some areas and you may want to stop a few times to take a break. To help distract you from the grueling climb, check out the beauty around you. It is absolutely gorgeous.
Jessica Gonzales/AllTrails
Take a long break by a seasonal waterfall. If the water is flowing, it’s quite an impressive and welcome sight.
Sean McCombs/AllTrails
While you can turn around at any time, if you want to reach the peak, keep on climbing. You’ll eventually come to a long blue rope. This rope is to assist you and help you reach the peak safely.
Michelle Strickland/AllTrails
For hikers who are particularly afraid of heights, this can be quite terrifying.
Anna White/AllTrails During this part of the trail, it is crucial that you have adequate shoes, a backpack or other items that allow you to carry your gear hands-free, plenty of water, etc.
Keep climbing and eventually, you will reach your destination. While awe-inspiring, even the views from on top can be quite scary.
Anna White/AllTrails
Once you’ve completed your journey, you will be able to see for miles. Be proud of yourself; you worked hard and it shows. Now, just be extra careful coming back down this extremely steep trail.
Gavin Ray/AllTrails
For a map of the Organ Needles Trail, click here.
Maria Villarreal/AllTrails
Michael Priday/AllTrails
Bryan Egner/AllTrails
Grant Tosterud/AllTrails
Kyle Tymon/AllTrails
However, you will eventually come to a large yellow rock formation. This is where the challenge begins.
Jessica Gonzales/AllTrails
Sean McCombs/AllTrails
Michelle Strickland/AllTrails
Anna White/AllTrails
During this part of the trail, it is crucial that you have adequate shoes, a backpack or other items that allow you to carry your gear hands-free, plenty of water, etc.
Gavin Ray/AllTrails
Have you ever hiked this difficult trail in the Land of Enchantment? Do you think it is one of the scariest and most difficult hikes in New Mexico? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Before or after your hike, make sure you spend some time in the Dripping Springs Natural Area. You can learn more about this underrated place in New Mexico in this article.
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Address: Organ Needle, New Mexico 88011, USA
