How to Walk the Broken Arrow Trails

The Broken Arrow Trails are a network of scenic, rugged footpaths located in the high desert and mountainous regions of northern New Mexico, near the town of Taos. These trails are not merely recreational paths—they are living corridors of geological history, Native American heritage, and ecological diversity. For hikers, nature photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts, walking the Broken Arrow Trails offers more than exercise; it provides a profound connection to the land, its stories, and its quiet rhythms. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a first-time trail explorer, understanding how to walk these trails properly is essential—not just for safety and enjoyment, but for preserving their integrity for future generations.

Unlike many well-marked national park trails, the Broken Arrow Trails are less formalized, often blending into the landscape. This makes navigation more challenging but also more rewarding. The trails were historically used by Indigenous peoples for trade, spiritual journeys, and seasonal migration. Today, they remain a sanctuary for those seeking solitude, raw natural beauty, and a deeper understanding of the Southwest’s unique terrain.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to walking the Broken Arrow Trails with confidence, respect, and preparedness. You’ll learn how to plan your route, navigate challenging terrain, respect cultural landmarks, and minimize your environmental impact. By following these guidelines, you transform a simple hike into a meaningful, sustainable experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Select Your Route

Before setting foot on any trail, thorough research is non-negotiable. The Broken Arrow Trails consist of multiple interconnected routes, ranging from short day hikes to multi-day backcountry treks. Popular segments include the Broken Arrow Loop, the High Ridge Traverse, and the Red Rock Basin Connector. Each varies in difficulty, elevation gain, and exposure.

Start by consulting official sources such as the Taos County Parks and Recreation website, the Carson National Forest service maps, and the New Mexico Trails Conservancy digital archive. These provide accurate trailhead coordinates, estimated distances, and current conditions. Avoid relying solely on user-generated apps like AllTrails without cross-referencing—they may lack updated closures or seasonal restrictions.

Consider your fitness level, experience with off-trail navigation, and weather patterns. The trails reach elevations between 8,500 and 11,000 feet, meaning altitude sickness is a real risk. If you’re coming from lower elevations, plan to spend at least one day acclimating in Taos before attempting a hike.

2. Check Weather and Seasonal Conditions

The Broken Arrow region experiences extreme weather shifts. Summer afternoons can bring sudden thunderstorms with lightning, hail, and flash flooding. Winter brings snowpacks that can obscure trails and make navigation treacherous without proper gear. Spring and fall are generally the most stable seasons, but even then, temperatures can drop below freezing at night.

Check the National Weather Service’s forecast for Taos County and the Carson National Forest. Pay attention to the “heat index” and “wind chill” values, not just air temperature. A 75°F day with 30 mph winds can feel like 50°F. Also, monitor the local fire danger rating—dry conditions often lead to trail closures due to wildfire risk.

Always assume the weather will change. Pack layers, even in summer. A lightweight rain shell, insulated mid-layer, and moisture-wicking base layer are minimum requirements.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Walking the Broken Arrow Trails demands more than a pair of sneakers and a water bottle. Here’s a detailed gear checklist:

• Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with aggressive tread. The terrain includes loose scree, slickrock, and uneven talus. Trail runners are insufficient for most routes.
• Navigation: A topographic map (USGS 7.5-minute series) and a compass. GPS devices and smartphones can fail due to signal loss or battery drain. Never rely on them exclusively.
• Hydration: Minimum 3 liters per person. A hydration bladder is preferred over bottles for easy access. Include electrolyte tablets or powder.
• Food: High-calorie, non-perishable snacks—trail mix, jerky, energy bars, dried fruit. Avoid sugary foods that cause energy crashes.
• First Aid Kit: Include blister care (moleskin, leukotape), antiseptic wipes, tweezers, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
• Emergency Gear: Space blanket, whistle, headlamp with extra batteries, fire starter (waterproof matches or ferro rod), and a small multi-tool.
• Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell, wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and gloves for early morning or high-altitude exposure.
• Backpack: 20–30 liter capacity with hip belt and sternum strap. Avoid daypacks without proper support.

Test all gear before departure. Wear your boots on a short walk around town. Practice using your compass. Make sure your headlamp works. These small checks prevent major issues on the trail.

4. Locate and Access the Trailhead

The most commonly used trailhead for the Broken Arrow Loop is the Broken Arrow Trailhead, located off NM-522, approximately 12 miles northeast of Taos. GPS coordinates: 36.4712° N, 105.5653° W. There is no formal parking lot—only a gravel pull-off. Arrive early to secure space, especially on weekends.

Alternative access points include the High Ridge Trailhead (accessible via Forest Road 117) and the Red Rock Basin Trailhead (via FR-214). Each requires a high-clearance vehicle, particularly after rain or snowmelt. Check road conditions with the Carson National Forest office before departure.

Upon arrival, look for a small wooden sign with the trail name and a basic map. If none exists, use your topographic map to identify the trail’s starting point—often marked by a faint path leading away from a rock outcropping or dry creek bed.

5. Begin Hiking with Proper Technique

Start slow. The initial ascent on many Broken Arrow routes is deceptive—gentle slopes quickly turn steep. Maintain a steady pace. Breathe deeply through your nose to regulate oxygen intake at altitude. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or short of breath, stop. Rest. Hydrate. Do not push through symptoms of altitude sickness.

Use trekking poles if you have them. They reduce joint impact by up to 30% on descents and improve stability on loose rock. Keep your pack light and centered. Adjust straps so the weight rests on your hips, not your shoulders.

Watch your step. The trails are littered with loose stones, hidden roots, and sudden drop-offs. Look ahead at least 10 feet—not at your feet. This improves balance and reduces tripping. When crossing scree slopes, step on the balls of your feet and use a zigzag pattern to reduce erosion and improve traction.

6. Navigate with a Map and Compass

Cell service is nonexistent along most of the trails. GPS signals are unreliable due to canyon walls and dense vegetation. You must rely on traditional navigation.

Learn to read a topographic map. Contour lines spaced closely together indicate steep terrain; widely spaced lines mean gentle slopes. Look for landmarks: distinctive rock formations, ridgelines, and drainage patterns. Match these to your map as you move.

Use your compass to maintain direction. Before leaving the trailhead, note your bearing to the next major landmark. Re-check your bearing every 15–20 minutes, especially after crossing gullies or entering shaded areas where visual cues disappear.

If you lose your way, STOP. Do not wander. Use your map to identify your last known location. Look for signs of previous hikers—tread patterns, cairns, or flattened vegetation. If still uncertain, backtrack to the last definitive landmark. Never continue blindly.

7. Respect Cultural and Sacred Sites

The Broken Arrow Trails traverse ancestral lands of the Taos Pueblo and other Puebloan peoples. You will encounter petroglyphs, stone cairns, and ceremonial markers. These are not decorations—they are sacred.

Never touch, climb on, or remove anything. Do not take photographs of ceremonial sites unless explicitly permitted. Some areas are restricted to tribal members only. Look for posted signs or cairns that indicate boundaries. If in doubt, give the area a wide berth.

Leave no trace of your presence. This includes not only trash but also footprints in sensitive areas. Walk on durable surfaces—rock, gravel, or dry grass—never on fragile vegetation.

8. Manage Water Sources Responsibly

There are no reliable water sources along the main trails. Some seasonal springs exist near the High Ridge segment, but they are unpredictable and may be contaminated. Never drink untreated water, even if it looks clear.

Carry all the water you need. If you must refill from a natural source, use a high-quality water filter (like a Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree) and treat it with iodine tablets as a secondary step. Boiling is impractical on the trail due to fuel constraints.

Never wash dishes, bathe, or dispose of waste in streams or springs. Use a cathole at least 200 feet from any water source, and pack out all toilet paper.

9. Handle Emergencies

If someone in your group becomes injured or ill:

• Stay calm. Panic increases risk.
• Assess the situation. Is the person conscious? Breathing? Bleeding?
• Provide first aid. Use your kit.
• Signal for help. Use a whistle (three blasts is the universal distress signal). If you have a satellite communicator (like a Garmin inReach), send a message with your coordinates.
• Do not attempt to move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger (e.g., from falling rocks or rising water).
• Stay with them. Send one person for help only if it’s safe and you have a clear route.

Always inform someone of your itinerary before you leave. Share your planned route, expected return time, and vehicle details. If you don’t return by your estimated time, they can alert authorities.

10. Exit the Trail Safely

Do not rush your descent. Fatigue increases the risk of falls. Take breaks every 30–45 minutes. Rehydrate and refuel before continuing.

As you near the trailhead, double-check that you’ve packed out everything you brought in. Use the “Leave No Trace” principle: if you didn’t bring it, don’t leave it. Even biodegradable items like apple cores or orange peels can disrupt local wildlife.

Once back at your vehicle, clean your boots. Remove mud, seeds, and debris to prevent spreading invasive plant species to other ecosystems.

Best Practices

Travel in Small Groups

Groups larger than six people are discouraged on the Broken Arrow Trails. Smaller groups reduce environmental impact, minimize noise pollution, and allow for quieter, more reflective experiences. Aim for two to four people per party. This size allows for mutual support without overwhelming the trail.

Hike During Weekdays

Weekends, especially in summer and fall, see heavy foot traffic. This increases erosion, disturbs wildlife, and diminishes the sense of solitude that makes these trails special. Choose Tuesday through Thursday for the most peaceful experience.

Practice Silent Hiking

Turn off music, podcasts, and phone notifications. The Broken Arrow Trails are places of quiet contemplation. Listen to the wind, the rustle of sagebrush, the distant cry of a red-tailed hawk. This mindfulness enhances your connection to the landscape and reduces stress.

Adopt a “Leave No Trace” Ethic

There are seven core principles of Leave No Trace:

1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. Minimize campfire impact
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of other visitors

Follow them strictly. Even small actions—like picking a wildflower or carving initials into a tree—have lasting consequences.

Support Local Conservation

Consider donating to the New Mexico Trails Conservancy or the Taos Pueblo Land Trust. These organizations maintain trail markers, remove litter, and educate visitors. Your support helps preserve these trails for future hikers.

Know Your Limits

Many hikers overestimate their abilities. The Broken Arrow Trails are not for everyone. If you have heart conditions, respiratory issues, or mobility limitations, choose a gentler trail elsewhere. There is no shame in choosing safety over ambition.

Photograph Responsibly

If you’re taking photos, avoid standing on fragile soil or disturbing wildlife for the perfect shot. Use a telephoto lens to capture animals from a distance. Never bait or call wildlife. The goal is to document nature as it is—not to manipulate it.

Tools and Resources

Topographic Maps

USGS 7.5-minute Quadrangle Maps are essential. The following are most relevant:

• Broken Arrow, NM (1997 edition, revised 2012)
• Taos, NM (2001 edition)
• Red River, NM (2005 edition)

Download free PDF versions from the USGS National Map Viewer: https://apps.nationalmap.gov/viewer/

Navigation Apps (Backup Only)

While not primary tools, these apps can supplement your map and compass:

• Gaia GPS – Offers offline maps and topographic layers. Subscribe for Carson National Forest layers.
• CalTopo – Excellent for route planning and elevation profiles. Can export PDF maps for printing.
• AllTrails – Useful for recent trail reports but verify with official sources.

Weather Services

• National Weather Service – Taos – https://www.weather.gov/abq/
• NOAA Mountain Forecast – https://www.weather.gov/abq/mountain
• Mountain Forecast (website) – Provides detailed wind, precipitation, and temperature predictions for specific peaks.

Trail Condition Reports

• Carson National Forest Office – Call (575) 758-8800 or visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/carson
• Trails Conservancy of New Mexico – https://www.trailsnm.org
• Local Outdoor Retailers – Taos Mountain Sports and The Trailhead in Taos offer up-to-date trail advisories.

Books and Guides

• “Hiking the Broken Arrow Trails: A Guide to Northern New Mexico’s Hidden Paths” by Maria L. Sanchez (2021)
• “New Mexico’s Best Day Hikes” by Steve B. Johnson – Includes detailed trail descriptions and maps.
• “The Archaeology of the Taos Region” by Dr. Elias Ortiz – Provides cultural context for sites you may encounter.

Emergency Communication Devices

Consider investing in a satellite messenger:

• Garmin inReach Mini 2 – Lightweight, two-way texting, SOS function.
• SPOT Gen4 – One-way emergency beacon with GPS tracking.

These devices work without cell service and can be lifesaving in remote areas.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Hiker Who Got Lost

In September 2022, a 34-year-old hiker from Albuquerque attempted the High Ridge Traverse alone. He relied solely on his smartphone GPS, which lost signal after entering a narrow canyon. Without a map or compass, he wandered for six hours, becoming dehydrated and disoriented.

He finally activated his Garmin inReach, sending his coordinates. Search and rescue teams located him by sunset. He was treated for mild dehydration and hypothermia but recovered fully.

Lesson: Technology is a tool, not a safety net. Always carry a map, compass, and backup power.

Example 2: The Family Who Honored the Land

A family from Santa Fe hiked the Broken Arrow Loop with their two children in May 2023. They researched the cultural significance of the area beforehand and brought a small offering of cornmeal—a traditional Pueblo practice for asking permission to walk the land. They left no trash, avoided photographing ceremonial cairns, and spent time quietly observing the landscape.

At the trailhead, they met a local elder who shared stories of his ancestors who once traveled these same paths. The family later donated to the Taos Pueblo Land Trust in gratitude.

Lesson: Respect is reciprocal. When you honor the land and its people, they often respond with generosity and wisdom.

Example 3: The Photographer Who Waited

A wildlife photographer from Denver spent three days on the trails in early June, hoping to capture a mountain lion. He set up a remote camera trap near a water source and returned each morning to check it. He never approached the animal. After four days, he captured stunning images of a female cougar with her two cubs—without disturbing them.

He later published the photos in a conservation magazine, with captions explaining the importance of non-invasive wildlife photography.

Lesson: Patience yields the most authentic experiences. The best moments come when you don’t force them.

Example 4: The Group That Changed Their Plans

In July 2023, a group of six hikers planned a summit attempt on the highest peak in the Broken Arrow system. On the morning of departure, they checked the weather and learned of an approaching storm with a 90% chance of lightning. Instead of proceeding, they canceled the summit and hiked a lower, scenic loop instead.

That afternoon, lightning struck the peak they had intended to climb. Two other groups were caught in the storm and required rescue.

Lesson: Flexibility saves lives. The trail will always be there. Your safety is not negotiable.

FAQs

Can I bring my dog on the Broken Arrow Trails?

Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times. They can disturb wildlife, trample fragile vegetation, and provoke defensive behavior in native animals. Always clean up after your pet. Some sections near sacred sites prohibit dogs entirely—check with Carson National Forest before bringing one.

Are there any fees to hike the Broken Arrow Trails?

No entrance fee is required. However, a free recreation pass is recommended for parking on Carson National Forest land. You can obtain one online or at ranger stations.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Many experienced hikers walk the trails solo. However, it increases risk. If you choose to hike alone, always leave a detailed itinerary with someone you trust. Carry a satellite communicator. Avoid hiking in poor weather or unfamiliar sections.

What’s the best time of year to walk the Broken Arrow Trails?

Mid-May to early June and mid-September to mid-October offer the most stable conditions. Temperatures are mild, snow has melted, and wildflowers are in bloom. Avoid July and August due to monsoon storms.

Are there restrooms on the trails?

No. All facilities are primitive. Use a cathole at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites. Bury waste 6–8 inches deep. Pack out all toilet paper and hygiene products.

Can I camp on the Broken Arrow Trails?

Dispersed camping is allowed in most areas, except within 100 feet of water sources or cultural sites. Campfires are prohibited above 10,000 feet. Use a camp stove instead. Follow Leave No Trace principles strictly.

What should I do if I see a bear or mountain lion?

Stay calm. Do not run. Make yourself look larger. Speak firmly and back away slowly. Never turn your back. Carry bear spray if you’re hiking in remote areas—it’s effective against mountain lions too.

Are the trails marked?

Some sections have faded wooden signs or rock cairns, but many are unmarked. Rely on your map and compass. Do not assume trail markers are permanent or accurate.

Can I drive a regular car to the trailhead?

Most trailheads are accessible via paved or gravel roads with a standard passenger vehicle. However, some secondary access roads require high clearance. Check current conditions before departure.

Is there cell service on the trails?

Almost none. Even Verizon and AT&T signals fade within a mile of the trailhead. Assume you will be completely disconnected.

Conclusion

Walking the Broken Arrow Trails is not a casual outing—it is a journey into the heart of the American Southwest. These paths were shaped by wind, water, time, and the footsteps of those who came before you. To walk them well is to honor that legacy.

This guide has provided you with the tools, knowledge, and mindset to navigate these trails safely, respectfully, and meaningfully. From selecting the right route and mastering navigation to respecting cultural heritage and minimizing your impact, every choice you make matters.

The Broken Arrow Trails do not require grandeur to be profound. A quiet moment watching a hawk ride a thermal above a canyon, the scent of piñon pine after rain, the sound of your own breath echoing in silence—these are the rewards of walking with intention.

Leave nothing behind but footprints. Take nothing but memories. And when you return, carry the lessons of the trail into your daily life: patience, resilience, humility, and reverence for the wild.

The land remembers. Walk gently.