Hike up Clear Creek Canyon in Northern New Mexico

Clear Creek Canyon is a side tributary of the Cimmaron River which flows from Eagle Nest Lake in the Moreno Valley (where we live) down through the Cimmaron Canyon out to merge with the Canadian River. The Canadian flows for hundreds of miles out across the lower plains.

Cimmaron Canyon is a stunning canyon, most of which is a New Mexico State Park.

Heather and I have hiked up the tributary canyon twice now. The first time was last fall when it was starting to get cold. The flowing stream creates bogs and pools in some areas that were iced over with a thin layer at the time. It was brisk back then.

Well, this week we hiked the same trail in the midst of a thunder storm. The canyon was so lush and green. This time, we hiked all the way to the top of the canyon and discovered some stunning water falls. I think we counted about 5 good sized falls before the trail climbs out of the cayon and continues on to the top of one of the peaks.

We got caught in a rain storm and stood it out hunkered down under a thick canopy of pine. What a lovely way to experience the canyon.

To hike the canyon you have to obtain a state park day pass that you can purchase at the visitor center located toward the top of Cimmaron canyon. There are also several state park campgrounds along the narrow highway. Most of the campgrounds have sites right on the Cimmaron River.

Here are a few photos from our hike.