Three Guns to Embudito Trailhead

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildlife

This is a great point-to-point hike requiring two vehicles (shuttle) that gives you a great variety of terrain and vegetation. The hike begins at the Tres Pistolas (Three Gun Springs) trailhead north of Carnuel, and runs approximately eight miles through high desert and alpine vegetation, eventually coming out at the Embudito Trailhead near Glenwood Hills.

The ascent from Three Guns Trailhead to the Embudo Trail is relatively open and on a south-facing slope, so the temperature can get hot quickly during the summer months. There are also a few rocky areas on the Embudito Trail (192) descent that will require minor scrambling and the use of your hands to climb down.

In order to perform the hike as mapped, you'll need two vehicles to shuttle back and forth between the two trailheads; otherwise, you'll be in for a very long out-and-back! The hike begins at the Tres Pistolas (Three Gun Springs) trailhead north of Carnuel in high desert shrubs and cacti. From here, you make a moderate climb along the Tres Pistolas (Three Gun Springs) trail with a few switchbacks over two miles until reaching the southern ridge and running into the Embudo Trail.

Continue on the Tres Pistolas (Three Gun Springs) trail for a relatively flat traverse along the side of the mountain until a moderate climb which brings you to the intersection with the Embudito Trail (192). At this point, you'll be in dense alpine vegetation, and the temperature will cool noticeably.

At the intersection, hop on the Embudito Trail (192) for a nice descent through a dense valley until returning to high desert near the Embudito Trailhead.