Monte Luna & Sun Mountain via St. John's Arroyo Trail loop

The trail is part of the Dale Ball Trails system, and you can typically access trailheads near St. John's College. Parking availability can vary, so it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Monte Luna & Sun Mountain loop within the Dale Ball Trails system.

Yes, the Dale Ball Trails, including this loop, are generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

Spring and fall offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder temperatures and potential wildflowers. While beautiful, summer can be hot, and winter may bring snowmelt, leading to muddy sections. Sun Mountain is particularly noted for spectacular sunrises and sunsets, making early morning or late afternoon hikes rewarding.

The terrain is diverse. You'll find undulating landscapes with common high desert vegetation like juniper and piñon. The trails are often rocky and sandy, transitioning to increasingly rocky sections on the ascents to the summits. Expect colorful rock formations and, in season, wildflowers. After snowmelt, some areas can become muddy.

This loop offers stunning panoramic views from the summits of Monte Luna and Sun Mountain, including Santa Fe, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Rio Grande Valley, and other distant ranges. The St. John's Arroyo Trail portion provides a different, possibly more sheltered, environment.

While the St. John's Arroyo Trail section is generally easy, the ascents to Monte Luna and Sun Mountain significantly increase the difficulty. Monte Luna involves some scrambling (Class 2), and Sun Mountain features steep switchbacks with grades often exceeding 20%. Hikers should be prepared for significant elevation gain and the baseline high altitude of the area.

Given the high altitude and limited sun coverage, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, sunblock, and UV-protective clothing. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended for the rocky and sandy terrain, and trekking poles can be very helpful on the steeper sections, especially on the descent from Sun Mountain.

Yes, this loop is part of the extensive Dale Ball Trails system. The route incorporates sections of the St John's Arroyo Trail, Saint John's Trail (174), Cruz Blanca Trail, and Sun Mountain Trail, offering a varied experience within the interconnected network.

The Dale Ball Trails system is primarily a natural area. There are no dedicated restrooms or water sources directly on the trail itself. It's essential to carry all the water you'll need and plan for restroom breaks before or after your hike at nearby facilities in Santa Fe.

For a less strenuous start, consider hiking the loop clockwise. This allows you to tackle the steepest ascent to Sun Mountain earlier in your hike when you're freshest, and the descent from Monte Luna might feel more gradual. Always carry a map or use a navigation app, as the interconnected trails can be confusing despite good signage.