Exploring the Outdoors in Chama, NM

Explore the Outdoors in Chama, NM

Being located in the Southern Rockies has many advantages, one of which is the plethora of outdoor activities that are available year-round. Whether it be hiking, fishing, or some other activity, the wonders of Northern New Mexico are yours to discover.

Hiking Near Chama, NM

Conquering a hiking trail can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Here are two popular trails that are nearby.

Duck Lake Trail

  • Length: 6.8 miles out-and-back
  • Distance from us: 28.7 miles


Known for its moderately challenging nature, Duck Lake Trail is a great choice for hiking, walking, and running. You can expect to spend over three hours on average for a complete hike. 


Pets are allowed on the trail and there are designated areas where they can be off-leash. As such, the Duck Lake Trail can be a great place to commune with nature as it is unlikely that you will meet many other people on this trail.

Elk Interpretive Trail

  • Length: 0.9 Miles out-and-back
  • Distance from us: 1.5 miles


Elk Interpretive Trail is perfect for beginning hikers or those who are just wanting a nice stroll with some great scenery. With the total length of this trail being just under a mile, one can expect to spend about 20 minutes to complete the hike. 


The trail is very well maintained, so it will make for a great family hike. It should be noted that there isn’t much shade along the trail, so plan accordingly.

El Vado Lake and Heron Lake State Parks

Just a roughly 30 minute drive south of our little village are two state parks that serve as perfect playgrounds for the outdoor enthusiast: El Vado Lake State Park and Heron Lake State Park.


There is a scenic 5.5 mile hiking trail that connects the two lakes that both beginners and experienced hikers can enjoy. Along the trail are multiple quiet coves that fishers will love, as they are great places to catch both trout and kokanee salmon. 


Here are some highlights of what you can do at these parks.

El Vado Lake State Park

  • Distance from us: 27.4 miles


This park is a favorite stop for birdwatchers as the area is a major wintering ground for bald eagles. Throughout the year, you can also view other elegant birds of prey, including:

  • Red-tail hawks
  • Water ouzels
  • Ospreys


El Vado sees a fair amount of activities during the winter months, as you’ll be able to find ample opportunities for:

  • Snowshoeing
  • Sledding
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Ice Fishing


In addition, there are also opportunities for waterfowl hunting on the Northwest side of the lake.



Explore El Vado

Heron Lake State Park

  • Distance from us: 21.3 miles


Heron Lake also shares many of the same wintertime activities, and is arguably more popular than El Vado when it comes to ice fishing. Heron Lake is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing as there is an opportunity to view animals such as:

  • Mountain Lions
  • Black Bears
  • Deer
  • Bald Eagles
  • And more!


Heron Lake also offers 7 miles of additional hiking trails in the form of East Meadow Trail and Salmon Run Trail. The latter trail is a favorite spot for archery clubs. For example, the Outdoor Assassins 3D, a Northern New Mexico archery club, holds an annual summer event where local archery enthusiasts compete against one another in different locales along the trail.



Explore Heron Lake

Best RV Park in Chama, NM

At Little Creel, we offer a spot at one of the most tranquil spots in all of New Mexico, allowing you a chance to get away from the grind of everyday life. Whether you are enjoying the outdoors at the park, fishing from the easily accessible river onsite, or exploring the wonders of the region, there is simply no better place to come back to than Little Creel.

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