
25 Jun Pine Tree Trail at Aguirre Springs, Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument
Enjoy this stunning and rewarding hike on the east side of the Organ Mountains. After enjoying a scenic drive through San Augustine Pass, and into Aguirre Springs, the Pine Tree trail offers a transition from the high desert to a ponderosa pine forest. There are many spectacular views along the way of the Tularosa basin and high peaks and needles of the Organ Mountains. The trail offers more shade from the heat than other trails in the Organ Mountains. Bring good sturdy footwear as the trail is rocky in places. There is 1000 feet of elevation gain. The trail passes through parts of the Organ Mountain Wilderness.
Total Trip Time: 4 hours
Meeting Times: Wednesday Sept. 25 at 1 PM
Where to Meet: Pine Tree Loop trailhead, Aguirre Springs Campground
Take U.S. 70 for 14 miles east of the I-25/U.S. 70 interchange in Las Cruces, then turn south on the Aguirre Spring Road (1.1 miles after San Augustine Pass) for six miles. At mile 4, the road becomes a one-way loop and climbs steeply.
Tour Leader: Howie Dash, Sierra Club
Actual Tour Time: 3 hours
Terrain: semi forested, trail rocky in places
What to Bring: Plenty of water, sunscreen, hiking boots, snacks, daypack, hiking poles if desired
Group Limit: 10
Age Limit: Adults
Difficulty Level: Moderate pace and difficulty
Special Directions, Safety Restrictions, etc.: experience on mountain trails.