Grasshopper Canyon

Dogs Off-leash

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Swimming · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Take I-25 north from Santa Fe. Get off at exit 297 (Valencia). Go left underneath I-25 and get back on southbound, drive for about 1 1/2 miles and park in a large pull-off marked by a giant green road sign saying "Canoncito at Apache Canyon."

At the north end of the parking lot follow the obvious trail down to the stream bed. The trail follows this waterway upstream to the swimming holes. Most of the trail is smooth hardpacked singletrack. There are numerous stream crossings, but most of these can easily be forded.

There are some downed trees as you get further up-canyon. Look for the big cliffs and stay with the water. Eventually, you'll come to a pool formed by the canyon walls narrowing - climb around or swim through. There are 3 pools (depending on water levels) for your hot summer enjoyment.