As the snow melts and wildflowers begin to bloom, Angel Fire, New Mexico, offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking a challenging ascent or a leisurely walk, the trails here provide breathtaking views and memorable experiences. We’ve rounded up the top trail picks to kick off the season—starting with a local favorite that delivers stunning views and a real sense of accomplishment. Hiking in Angel Fire
Featured Hike: The Enlightenment Trail – “The Real Deal”
Recommended by a local Angel Fire resident since 1977
- Distance: Approximately 4.5 miles one-way
- Elevation Gain: Around 2,000 feet
- Trailhead: Base of the Angel Fire Ski Area, near the Chile Express chairlift
- Difficulty: Challenging, but even if you only make it 1 mile up, it’s still rewarding!
- Best Time to Hike: Early morning to avoid afternoon showers AllTrails.com
Start at the base of the ski area—park beside the chair lift. Go early to snag a spot and beat the monsoon rains.
The trail follows the left side of a creek, with ski runs and lifts on your right. You’ll cruise along a well-marked path through ponderosa, fir, and aspen trees. Technically, you share the first half with uphill bikers—but most are over in the bike park.
Shortly in, the trail begins climbing a ridge. At the top, pause to catch your breath and soak in sweeping views of Wheeler Peak and the Moreno Valley.
As you continue, the trail crosses the creek again and runs next to one of the bike park trails. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch sight of some daredevil riders whizzing past. Eventually, you’ll pass under an overpass—your halfway point. Here, bikers exit the trail and head into the park; trail signs make it easy to stay on course.
Next, you tackle a series of switchbacks that climb the mountainside. You’ll hike through an old-growth forest of fir and spruce—likely untouched by logging due to the steep terrain. Views open up across the ski runs and the valley below.
At the top of the switchbacks, the trail curves eastward on a long traverse. You’ll begin to see the top of the lift—your goal. One last crossing over a ski run leads to the final climb.
Look for the yurt. Climb up to the deck and soak in what many call the best view in the valley. If the yurt is open, grab a cold drink and snack.
On busy days, the deck can get lively with bikers and lift riders—but take your time. Look north to Eagle Nest Lake, Touch Me Not, and Baldy Mountains. East to Mt. Phillips, Philmont Scout Ranch, and the distant plains. West to Wheeler Peak, the tallest in New Mexico. And south to the ranges around Mora and Las Vegas.
If the lift is open, hop on and ride down. Or, go hardcore and hike your way back—taking in all the views you may have missed on the climb. Have fun!
