The Santa Fe National Forest in New Mexico is home to stunning scenery, vivid blue skies, and an abundance of hiking trails. Each time I visit New Mexico, I am reminded why the state is known as the Land of Enchantment. New Mexico is home to a range of stunning landscapes from high plains and deserts to mountains. The contrast of these landscapes, combined with vibrant sunsets help the state live up to its name. Among the many beautiful hikes in the Santa Fe National Forest is the Norski Trail.
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Norski Trail Location
The trailhead for the Norski Trail and Cross Country Ski Track is located on Hyde Park Road, just northeast of downtown Santa Fe. The trail is a 1.9 mil loop, with the start and finish at the same location. The trail is open to hikers in the summer, and to cross country skiers in the winter months.
Norski Trail | Terrain and Elevation Gain
The Norski Trail loop is composed of gently rolling topography through aspen and pine forest. Elevation gain is approximately 177 feet. The trail is open year-round.
I last hiked this trail in mid-September, and although I was there a bit before the aspens put on their Fall show, the hike was gorgeous. I’m certain this trail is beautiful in any season; however, I would love to make a return visit and hike in October when the aspens are in full color!
Native Plants of the Santa Fe National Forest
The Norski Trail is home to an abundance of seasonal wildflowers. I’ll share a handful of the wildflowers I observed on my mid-September hike. My personal favorite is Fireweed, with its beautiful purple-pink flowers.
Animals of the Santa Fe National Forest
Native birds and other animals of the Santa Fe National Forest are supported by numerous habitats within the forest. I did not observe much wildlife on my midday hike, but did note a few birds, most of which I could not identify as a Midwest native! Wildlife you might expect to see on the trail includes mule deer, grouse, quail, and doves. I observed this beautiful gray Canada Jay, the only bird I could successfully snap a photo of!
All Trails Maps
For detailed trail maps of the Norski Trail and thousands of others in the Santa Fe National Forest and across the country, check out the All Trails app.
- 500K+ trails
- 90M+ members
- 1.8B+ miles logged
- 2.9B+ kilometers logged
- 14 languages supported
Sign up for a Free 7-day trial HERE.Â
Winter Hiking Layers
Winter is a beautiful time to hike in the Santa Fe National Forest! As we journey through the coldest months of the year, be sure you’re dressed in layers for the comfort on the trail. Explore Jackets & Layers Up to 70% Off at Steep & Cheap’s Gone Outside Sale.
Hiking Packs
For a well-fitting, sustainably made pack for a hike of any length, Osprey packs are my go to. If you’re anything like me, you travel light! My go to pack for day hikes is Osprey’s Talon 11. I have faithfully carried this pack for 10 years, and aside from some normal wear and tear, it’s still in excellent condition! The Talon 11 has an adjustable hip-belt, two water bottle compartments, and a mesh front pocket with plenty of room for an extra layer and snacks for the trail.
Osprey’s Sportlite 20 is another great option for day hikes. For something a bit larger, Osprey’s Hikelite Daypack includes padded hipbelt pockets and plenty of storage space.
Check out Osprey’s Packfinder to find the pack that will best fit your frame and activity.
Norski Trail | Pet Policy
Leashed pets are permitted on the Norski Trail.
Nearby New Mexico Adventures
If you’re in search of a unique adventure in New Mexico, consider a visit to Capulin Volcano National Monument in Northeastern New Mexico. Read on for more information on this ancient volcano in my blog post: Explore the Beauty of Capulin Volcano National Monument, New Mexico.
Enjoy your hike on the scenic Norski Trail!
-Erin
