Bisti Wings Trail

The primary access point for the Bisti Wings Trail is the Hunter Wash trailhead. There is a parking area available there. Remember that the area is remote, so ensure your vehicle is prepared for unpaved roads.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed in the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, which includes the Bisti Wings Trail. However, it's crucial to keep them on a leash to protect the fragile environment and wildlife. Always pack out all waste and ensure your dog has plenty of water, as there are no water sources on the trail.

The best times to hike are typically spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are milder. Summers can be extremely hot, and winters can bring cold winds and occasional snow. Always check the weather forecast before you go, as rain can make the washes difficult to cross and roads muddy.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Bisti Wings Trail or to enter the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness. It is managed by the Bureau of Land Management as a wilderness area, emphasizing self-reliance and minimal impact.

The terrain is characteristic of a 'badlands' environment, featuring a stark, barren landscape shaped by millions of years of erosion. You'll walk over sandstone, mudstone, shale, and coal formations. While mostly flat, you will encounter washes (dry riverbeds) and uneven ground. The absence of marked trails means you'll be walking off-trail for much of your exploration.

The Bisti Wings Trail is generally considered an easy hike in terms of physical exertion, with mostly flat sections and minimal elevation gain. However, it is not a traditional marked trail. Beginners should be comfortable with off-trail navigation using GPS or downloaded maps, as cell service is unreliable. Proper preparation, including carrying enough water and knowing how to navigate, is essential for all hikers.

Since there are no officially marked trails, navigation relies heavily on intuition, GPS devices, or downloaded maps. It is highly recommended to download offline maps to your phone or carry a dedicated GPS unit, as cell service is often spotty or nonexistent. Familiarize yourself with the area before you go and consider using a compass as a backup.

The trail is renowned for its bizarre and beautiful geological formations. You'll encounter numerous hoodoos, spires, and the distinctive Stone Wings (Bisti Wings) that give the trail its name. Other notable features include Capped Rocks Hoodoos and the Red Rock Garden, along with petrified wood and fossilized remains.

Given the remote and unmarked nature of the trail, essential items include plenty of water (there are no water sources), reliable navigation tools (GPS, downloaded maps), sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sturdy hiking shoes, and layers of clothing for changing weather. It's also wise to carry a first-aid kit and extra food.

The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness is a remote area with no visitor centers, restrooms, or traditional amenities directly at the trailhead or along the trail. The nearest towns with services and accommodation would be Farmington, New Mexico, which is about an hour's drive away.

The Bisti Wings Trail is not a defined loop or out-and-back trail in the traditional sense. Instead, it's an area for exploration. Hikers typically start from the Hunter Wash trailhead and navigate off-trail to find specific formations like the Stone Wings. You can create your own route, making it as long or short as you desire, often returning the way you came or exploring new paths.