26 Jul Cebolla Mesa Hike Through the Rio Grande Gorge
Cebolla Mesa Hike Through the Rio Grande Gorge
The Cebolla (Wild Onion) Mesa trail begins on the rim of the gorge at 7,300 feet. The trail follows some moderately steep switchbacks down from the rocky cliff edge. It then enters a flatter shelf and crosses some small meadows, marked by rock formations and areas of piñón and juniper. The final stretch contains longer switchbacks, which bring you down to the big basalt boulders that line the Rio Grande.
The descent covers about 1.3 miles and drops almost 1,000 feet.
As you descend into the gorge, you’ll hear the rushing sound of the Rio Grande growing louder. The river is deep green and fast now. The black basalt rocks along the river hold the sun and warm the area near the river bank, creating nice spots for resting or picnicking. The trail ends near the confluence of the Red River and the Rio Grande.
In 1968, Congress protected eight rivers with the Wild and Scenic designation. This section of the Rio Grande was among the original rivers included in this river system.
This hike is a moderate to difficult hike mainly because of the near-vertical hike out. The hike in is relatively easy and the trail is in good shape. The views are stunning. The hike offers the opportunity to move through various ecosystems of the gorge as we descend to the banks of the Rio Grande.
Total Trip Time: (leaving parking lot to returning): 4 hours total / 2-3 hours hiking
Meeting Times: Friday Oct. 7 at 12:30 PM
Where to Meet: I WILL HAVE TO ADD THIS LATER. MEET AT LAMA TURNOFF BUT NOT SURE OF MILE MARKER – or we could just meet in town and caravan out.
Tour Leaders: Jim O’Donnell, Long-time Public Lands activist and Taos resident.
What to Bring: Sturdy boots, sunscreen, sunhat, plenty of water, snacks, camera, rain jacket.
Special Safety Instruction: Be aware of dehydration, heatstroke and turned ankles.
Group Limit: 10
Age Limit: 8 years old and older
Difficulty Level: Moderate Difficulty
Special Directions, Safety Restrictions, etc: Guests will be given a waiver and safety packet in advance that must be filled out and returned prior to the trip.