One of only three slot canyons in New Mexico, San Lorenzo Canyon is fantastic for hiking, camping, and general observation. And although it’s not an official Dark Sky sanctuary, the stargazing here is supreme.
Know Before You Go
Although there are a few designated trails, this is a free-use area. While you should be careful to leave no trace exploration and hiking is completely free form. There are a number of campsites established by previous visitors, although none are designated official sites, and there are no bathrooms, water, electricity, or WiFi.
Best visited in spring and fall. Summer visits are to be done with caution as the heat and lack of water means you need to be well prepared. Summer can also bring rain that makes the area inaccessible to all but 4×4 vehicles.
Be sure to download maps before going, as service in this area is not reliable.
When traveling South on 1-25 take exit 163 and then an immediate turn onto 1-24 frontage road headed South. Travel for 2.3 miles and turn right to pass under the highway. Follow the arroyo’s for 4.4 mile to the start of the San Lorenzo Canyon area. With no rain the is easily done by any vehicle but rain can necessitate a 4×4.
When traveling North on 1-25 take exit 163 and then an immediate turn onto 1-24 frontage road headed South. Travel for 2.3 miles and turn right to pass under the highway. Follow the arroyos for 4.4 miles to the start of the San Lorenzo Canyon area. With no rain the is easily done by any vehicle but rain can necessitate a 4×4.
