If you’re planning a fall getaway to northern New Mexico, the Atalaya Mountain Trail deserves a top spot on your itinerary. Located just minutes from downtown, this Santa Fe hiking trail offers one of the most rewarding hikes in the region without requiring an all-day commitment. With golden aspens, high desert views, and crisp autumn air, the Atalaya Trail is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. You’ll gain just enough elevation to feel like you’ve earned the summit views, but the hike itself remains accessible and well-marked, making it one of the best options for a moderately challenging trek up the mountains.
The Atalaya Mountain Trail starts at St. John’s College and winds its way through piñon-juniper woodlands and patches of ponderosa pine, gradually revealing panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. In the fall, the colors pop just enough to frame the scenery with golden light and a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere. It checks all the boxes for hikes in Santa Fe: It’s close to town, rich with views, and incredibly photogenic. Of course, this hike and others in the area are just one of the many things to do in Santa Fe this fall.
Fall in Santa Fe is nothing short of exceptional. Spend the rest of your day exploring immersive galleries on Canyon Road, enjoying local wine flights, or browsing at the Railyard’s artisan markets. Santa Fe has a distinctly grown-up charm, with a mix of creative energy and laid-back elegance that makes it easy to linger. To make the most of it, stay at Four Kachinas Inn, a welcoming and art-filled bed and breakfast just a short walk from the city’s historic core.
Known for its Southwestern flair, generous hospitality, and cozy rooms filled with local artwork, our elevated Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe offers the perfect home base for combining adventurous Santa Fe hikes with world-class dining, culture, and relaxation. After a day on the Atalaya Trail Santa Fe, you’ll appreciate the comfort and calm that’s waiting back at the B&B. Book your stay today!
Hiking the Atalaya Mountain Trail in Santa Fe
When it comes to finding the best Santa Fe hikes, you have plenty to choose from. One trail that always finds its way onto lists, though, is the Atalaya Mountain Trail. There’s a reason this hike is a local favorite. It offers incredible views, varied terrain, and just the right amount of challenge without requiring a full day on the trail. Located just east of downtown Santa Fe, the hike begins on the Atalaya Trail at St. John’s College, where you’ll find a parking lot and clear signage to get you started.
The full out-and-back route clocks in at around 6.2 miles round-trip, depending on the path you choose (there are two trailheads; the one starting at St. John’s College is the most popular). You’ll gain around 1,800 feet of elevation to reach the summit of Atalaya Mountain. Most hikers can complete the round-trip in 2.5 to 3.5 hours, making it a solid half-day adventure that pairs well with lunch or gallery hopping back in town.
What makes this one of the best hikes near Santa Fe, especially in the fall, is the ecological diversity you’ll encounter. Given its location in the Santa Fe National Forest, it’s also a dog-friendly hike in Santa Fe. The Atalaya Mountain Trail takes you through piñon and juniper forests, opens up into rocky clearings with views across the city, and then climbs into the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
As you ascend to the top of the Atalaya Mountain Trail, you’ll pass through patches of ponderosa pine and the occasional grove of aspens, which turn golden in October and early November. The summit view is the real reward. From the top of Atalaya Mountain, you can see out over Santa Fe, the Rio Grande Valley, and even toward Mount Taylor on a clear day.
If you plan to hike the Atalaya Trail, bring layers, especially in the fall. Mornings can be chilly, but you’ll warm up quickly on the ascent. Also, pack plenty of water, as there’s none available on the trail. If you’re starting in the morning, try to hit the summit by late morning for the best light and fewer people.
You may be just minutes from the city, but once you’re on the Atalaya Mountain Trail, it will feel like you’re a world away. We also recommend keeping a trail map with you, as there are a lot of trails in this part of the forest, and it could be easy to take the wrong trail spur if you aren’t paying attention.
Unlace Your Boots at our Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe
After a scenic climb up the Atalaya Mountain Trail, there’s nothing better than coming back to a space that feels just as thoughtful and inviting as the landscape you’ve spent the morning exploring. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Four Kachinas Bed and Breakfast. Our Inn is one of the best places to stay in Santa Fe for travelers who want comfort with character. Located just a short drive from the trailhead at St. John’s College, our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast offers a peaceful and artful retreat in the heart of the city.
Each room at our Bed and Breakfast is individually decorated with handcrafted furniture, local artwork, and thoughtful details that reflect the region’s rich cultural blend. We’ve layered in authentic southwestern charm into everything we do, from the woven textiles and colorful tilework to the private outdoor seating areas where you can kick off your boots and recharge. After a day on the Atalaya Trail, you’ll appreciate having a quiet corner to sip wine, scroll through your summit photos, and enjoy the fresh high desert air without having to go anywhere else.
Perhaps the real highlight of your stay at our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast is the morning breakfast itself. Guests wake up to a fresh, homemade morning meal that includes both hearty options and lighter fare, made with regional ingredients and served with warmth. Whether you’re fueling up for another one of the best hikes near Santa Fe or planning a slower-paced day exploring museums and galleries, breakfast sets the tone for a relaxed, memorable day. Experience the best of both worlds in Santa Fe, and book your adventure and culture-focused getaway to Santa Fe today!
