Easy hikes and walks in Torrance County

Gallo Peak stands at just over 10,000 feet at 10,010-feet in the Manzano Mountain Range. The true summit of Gallo Peak is just west of the Manzano Crest Trail and is a moderate jaunt off trail through some boulders and slightly dense forest growth. It is most commonly reached via the Spruce Spring or Red Canyon Trails, which then both lead to the Manzano Crest Trail, which runs north-south along almost the entire mountain range. The summit of Gallo Peak is relatively flat and open, with summit register on the southeast side for you to sign, if you wish.

The Capilla Peak Lookout is a historic fire-lookout on the top of Capilla Peak. First constructed in 1921, the spot for this lookout was chosen because although Capilla Peak is not the tallest in the area, it stands out from the main ridge, and provides great views of the entire range. Unfortunately, there have been many wildfires here over the years, so the tower has quite a bit of use gotten use in the last 100 years.

The Manzano Hawkwatch site is a vital location for monitoring raptor migration. Operated by HawkWatch International, the site has been active since 1985 and provides valuable data on raptor populations and trends. Each fall, thousands of raptors, including species like the Northern Harrier and Cooper's Hawk, pass through this area. The site is not only important for research but also offers a unique opportunity for visitors to observe these birds in their natural migration patterns. You can reach this spot via the Gavilan Trail off of Capilla Peak. Even if you are not a bird enthusiast, this is a spectacular lookout that is a must-visit if camping at the Capilla Peak Campground or in the area.

Gavilan Trail is a relatively short (.8 miles one way) but incredibly scenic out-and-back trail by the trailhead for the southern Manzano Crest Trail and the Capilla Peak Campground. The trail climbs steadily through the trees, with increasingly good views of the surrounding mountains as you draw closer to the top. The trail ends at a HawkWatch Observation Point, where migrating raptors and other birds are tracked, making this trail popular with bird enthusiasts.

The Abó Unit of Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, located west of Mountainair, New Mexico, spans approximately 370 acres and showcases a rich history dating back to around 800 AD. The site was initially occupied by the Pueblo people, who built rectangular red sandstone masonry pueblos and engaged in farming, hunting, and trading. When the Spanish arrived in 1581, they found a thriving community. The mission of San Gregorio de Abó was established in 1622, with the first church completed by 1626. Due to a growing population, a larger church was built by 1651, the remnants of which can still be seen today. Abó was abandoned in 1673 due to disease, drought, famine, and Apache raids, but Spanish settlers briefly returned in the 1800s. Visitors to Abó can explore the .75-mile interpretive loop trail through the 17th-century mission ruins, photograph 1820s Spanish resettlement structures, enjoy the natural surroundings, picnic in the designated area, and participate in ranger-led programs and special events. The site offers a unique glimpse into the region's history and cultural heritage.

The Outer Loop is one of many trails in a small network of trails in the Manzano Mountains State Park, a small, peaceful state park with camping and hiking. You can connect this well-maintained trail with several others to make pleasant hiking loops of any size through tall pine trees with mountain views.

The 1-mile Spanish Corral Trail, an offshoot from the main Quarai Ruins Trail, offers a gentle, well-maintained hike with gradual climbs leading to beautiful views of the ruins and surrounding mountains. The trail provides a glimpse into the area's natural wilderness and features red sandstone "veins" believed to be the source of the stone used for the historic structures. Named for its use as a horse corral by the Spanish, the trail is lined with fragrant rose bushes and a variety of wildflowers, making it a scenic and easy hike.

The Visitor Center at Quarai serves as a gateway to understanding the site's rich history and cultural significance. Inside, you'll find exhibits detailing the story of the ancestral Pueblo people, the Spanish mission, and the natural environment, providing historical context before you explore the trails and ruins. You can then hike the half-mile paved interpretive loop trail that takes you through the ruins, and if you wish to add more milage to your day, you can also explore the one-mile unpaved, primitive Spanish Corral Trail. Bird watching and photography are both very popular activities; don't miss the chance to capture stunning photos of the historic structures, and the beautiful scenery and wildlife.