Trails

There are 3 hiking trails available on the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge. Each trail provide a unique experience of the surrounding landscapes and habitats found on or near the Refuge. Please stay on the marked trails. Do not venture on to game trails or closed areas of the refuge. When in doubt, contact refuge management for further guidance.

Rio Grande Nature Trail Seasonal Closure

A seasonal closure of the Rio Grande Nature Trail on Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge will be in effect starting 04/15/2024 through 09/1/2024 to protect the federally endangered southwestern willow flycatcher. We appreciate your cooperation in protecting this bird by complying with the seasonal closure. Signs at the trail head will indicate where public entry is prohibited. The reopening of the trail is expected when the nesting season is completed, on or about September 1, 2024.

For more information about the refuge, check out the Alamosa and Monte Vista Refuge General Brochure or the Rio Grande Natural Trail brochure or contact Refuge Biologist Scott Miller or Refuge Management at (719) 589-4021..

Bluff Nature Trail

The Bluff Nature Trail is located on the south end of the Refuge, accessed by the Bluff Overlook Drive. This trail goes along the edge of the bluff, which was carved out over 10,000 years ago by the Rio Grande, for 1 mile out and 1 mile back. It is accessible by foot, horseback, and bicycles.
Trail Length (mi)
1.01
Trail Difficulty
Difficulty Meter / intermediate
Moderate
Suitability
Dog friendly
Kid friendly
View Trail

Malm Trail

The Malm Nature Trail which is located on the northwestern side of the Refuge and is accessed through City of Alamosa property along the South River Road. This trail is located on multiple landowner properties and made possible with the coordination and cooperation from these various landowners and partners. The trail meanders along the Westside Irrigation Ditch and then proceeds along riparian habitats near the Rio Grande located on the Refuge. It is accessible by foot and bicycles. Refuge sections of trail is subject to seasonal closure from April 15th to September 1st for protection of federally endangered species.
Trail Length (mi)
0.28
Trail Difficulty
Difficulty Meter / introductory
Easy
Estimated Time
10 minutes
View Trail

Rio Grande Trail

The Rio Grande Nature Trail is located near our visitor center at the end of El Rancho Ln. This trail meanders along riparian habitat and the Rio Grande. The trail is 2 mile out and 2 miles back and is accessible by foot, horseback, and bicycles. The trail is subject to seasonal closure from April 1st to Aug 31st for protection of federally endangered species.
Trail Length (mi)
1.87
Trail Difficulty
Difficulty Meter / introductory
Easy
Suitability
Dog friendly
Kid friendly
Wheelchair friendly
View Trail