Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks NM--Baylor Canyon Pass Trail

About this Location

Hike the Baylor Canyon Pass Trail from either Baylor Canyon Road on the west or Aguirre Spring on the east. From the west, it is a four-mile hike to the saddle at the top (elevation gain: 1,500 feet) and a two-mile hike down to Aguirre Spring (elevation drop: 700 feet). To hike the six miles one way in either direction, most visitors park vehicles on both sides of the mountain or arrange a pick-up.

The Baylor Canyon Trailhead allows fee-free access to hike Baylor Canyon Trail. The Aguirre Spring side requires a $5 day-use fee.

About Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

See all hotspots at Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument was established to protect significant prehistoric, historic, geologic, and biologic resources of scientific interest, and includes four areas: the Organ Mountains, Desert Peaks, Potrillo Mountains, and Doña Ana Mountains.

The Organ Mountains are a steep, angular mountain range with rocky spires that jut majestically above the Chihuahuan Desert floor to an elevation of 9,000 feet. This picturesque area of rocky peaks, narrow canyons, and open woodlands ranges from Chihuahuan Desert habitat to ponderosa pine in the highest elevations. Located adjacent to and on the east side of Las Cruces, this area provides opportunities for photography, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

The Desert Peaks include the Robledo Mountains, Sierra de las Uvas, and Doña Ana Mountains, characterized by desert mountains rising steeply from flat plains.

The Potrillo Mountains are the most remote section of the Monument located a distance to the southwest from Las Cruces and are comprised of a volcanic landscape of cinder cones, lava flows, and craters.

The Doña Ana Mountains have extensive pedestrian trails, equestrian trails, mountain bike trails, rock climbing routes, and some limited routes available for motorized use.

Notable Trails

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike using the Baylor Canyon Pass Trail.

Content from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area brochure and map and Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument Official Website

Last updated February 28, 2023