Friends of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks

Baylor Canyon West Trailhead
2026-05-02 08:00 - 11:30 (America/Denver) | Baylor Canyon
The Civil War Comes to Mesilla Valley
Experience the stories and struggles of our region’s past that shaped it into the complex and beautiful place of today along 3 mile hike with docent Tom Dormody with sweeping views of Mesilla Valley
MORE INFO:
Moderate level
Please be sure to plan ahead and consider packing a light snack to enjoy along the trail.
PARKING:
Free parking lot
Baylor Pass Trail (west side of Organ Mountains)
RECOMMENDED GEAR:
Plenty of water
Snacks
Good hiking shoes
Sunscreen/Bug spray
Hiking poles recommended

Volcanoes & Trail Dust: Picacho Peak Hike Pt. 2
2026-05-02 08:00 - 11:00
Location: Picacho Peak Recreation Area, Las Cruces, NM
Total Distance: About 3.5 miles. Our guides will make frequent stops along the way.
Ever wondered about that volcano in our backyard or what the “Butterfield Trail” was? Join us for a scenic, guided hike in the Picacho Peak Recreation area of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument and learn about the national monument, the geology of our area and the historic Butterfield Overland Trail. This hike does not go to the peak but around the area. Please note that this hike is Part 2 of a two-part series and will have a stronger emphasis on the history of the area.
Hike is led by Anne Peslier and Mary Hoffman
Trail Conditions & Gear:
This hike is rated moderate due to some rocky and sandy terrain, uneven ground, and a few short inclines and descents. Hiking poles and comfortable hiking shoes or boots will be helpful and hikers should bring at least 1 liter of water. No water or restrooms will be available on this hike. Remember to dress for the weather and check weather conditions before the hike.
Driving Directions:
Take US Highway 70 west from Las Cruces to Picacho Hills. Turn north on Picacho Hills Drive and after 1 mile continue west on Barcelona Ridge Road. Travel 1 mile west and turn north on Anthem Road. Follow Anthem Road for 1 mile to its end. Turn north on Picacho Mountain Loop Road (unpaved) and follow this for 1.5 miles to the trailhead parking area. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended due to some rough and sandy areas in the unpaved road

Earth Day Tree Planting
2026-04-22 17:30 - 19:00 | gomez park, 2283 S Espina St., Las Cruces, NM, 88001, United States
Plant trees with us for Earth Day!

We are seeking volunteers to help us plant desert willows at Gomez Park. We will provide refreshments and some snacks. Please come in clothes you don’t mind getting dirty!

Spring Canyon Hike
2026-04-19 09:00 - 12:00
The Spring Canyon hike will be led by Ken Steigman, who will talk about the history of cattle use at the spring, efforts to remove them, the plant life that exists there now, and the potential for restoring the area around the spring. Lance will talk about the geology of the area.
Meeting Location: Fairacres Post Office, 3800 W Picacho Ave, Fairacres, NM
This moderate hike (approx. 3 miles) explores Spring Canyon just to the west of
Picacho Peak and south of the Robledo Mountains. Participants will learn about the
flora and fauna of the canyon that are supported by a small perennial spring that
provides water throughout the year. In addition the area is a story for land preservation
and is aclassroom for the interesting Tertiary volcanic activity of the area/ This trip is
suitable for teens and adults; the hike involves a moderately strenuous hike within a
rocky arroyo and panoramic canyon views. The trip lead will be Ken Steigman who is a
local resident and member of the Las Cruces Native Plant Society
Distance: about 3 miles
Duration: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Bring: Hiking shoes, water, snacks, sun protection
Trip Leader: Ken Steigman, Co-Lead Lance Robert. Contact:
klmecsteigman@gmail.com
Additional information: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/05f93471bc.html

Dripping Springs Guided Hike
2026-04-12 08:30 - 11:30, 2026-02-14 13:00 - 16:30 | Dripping Springs Visitor Center, 15000 Dripping Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM, 88011, United States
Location: Dripping Springs
Duration: takes roughly 3-3.5 hours so please plan accordingly.
Total Distance: 3.0-mile out-and-back trail. Our guide will make frequent stops along the way.
Join us for a guided hike to Dripping Springs. Our experienced guide will share fascinating insights about the area’s history, plants, and wildlife, ensuring an enriching and enjoyable experience. We will make stops at Boyd’s Sanitarium and Van Patten Mountain Camp, offering intriguing glimpses into the past. As you stroll through these historical locations, take a moment to envision the lives of those who once inhabited these mountains and the adventures they undertook. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water to keep hydrated. We eagerly anticipate exploring the wonders of Dripping Springs with you!
Hike is led by Tom Dormody
Trail Conditions & Gear:
This hike is considered easy to moderate and features a consistent incline throughout. The trail is well maintained, though it can be somewhat rocky, potentially making it slippery during on the way out. There’s plenty of shaded areas along the way, and we plan to take frequent breaks. However, it’s important to ensure you can keep pace with the group. Be mindful of your personal limits and come prepared with plenty of water, snacks, and suitable hiking footwear for your safety. Restroom facilities are available at the visitor’s center and one along the trail.
PARKING:
Parking available at the visitor center
This is a free event but there is a $5 parking fee
No dogs allowed on this trail

Volcanoes & Trail Dust: Picacho Peak Hike
2026-04-04 08:00 - 12:00 | Picacho Peak Recreation Area
Volcanoes & Trail Dust, Part 1
This hike does not go to the peak but around the area
Date & Time: April 4, 2026
Location: Picacho Peak Recreation Area, Las Cruces, NM
Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours
Total Distance: About 3.5 miles. Our guides will make frequent stops along the way.
Ever wondered about that volcano in our backyard or what the “Butterfield Trail” was? Join us for a scenic, guided hike in the Picacho Peak Recreation area of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument and learn about the national monument, the geology of our area and the historic Butterfield Overland Trail. The focus will be geology. PT 2 will focus on History
Trail Conditions & Gear:
This hike is rated moderate due to some rocky and sandy terrain, uneven ground, and a few short inclines and descents. Hiking poles and comfortable hiking shoes or boots will be helpful and hikers should bring at least 1 liter of water. No water or restrooms will be available on this hike. Remember to dress for the weather and check weather conditions before the hike.
Driving Directions:
Take US Highway 70 west from Las Cruces to Picacho Hills. Turn north on Picacho Hills Drive and after 1 mile continue west on Barcelona Ridge Road. Travel 1 mile west and turn north on Anthem Road. Follow Anthem Road for 1 mile to its end. Turn north on Picacho Mountain Loop Road (unpaved) and follow this for 1.5 miles to the trailhead parking area. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended due to some rough and sandy areas in the unpaved road.

Bishop's Cap Loop
2026-04-04 08:00 - 11:30 | Peña Blanca, County rd B059- 32.21004, -106.61459, Mesquite, NM, 88048, United States
Join us for the Bishop Cap Hike!
Location: Bishop Cap Trailhead, County Road B059, Las Cruces, NM, USA
Come along on a guided hike around the Bishop Cap area to explore the Fluorite mining area and witness stunning views in the Organ Mountains. For this hike, make sure to have sturdy footwear for rough hiking terrain, a hiking staff or trekking poles, lunch, and 2 liters of water. Limited to a total of 12 experienced hikers.
This hike presents a significant challenge due to its length and difficulty. By registering, you acknowledge the strenuous nature of the hike and must come prepared.

This is a difficult hike-6.5 miles
This hike is rated difficult due to its 6.5 mile length and terrain conditions on certain portions of the hike. We’ll have to average at least 1.5 miles per hour when hiking (plus the additional time for six scheduled interpretive stops and a lunch stop) to get done in 5.5 to 6 hours, so we’ll need every hiker to be able to keep up with the group. During the hike, we’ll be walking some of the time on sharp rocks; slippery downhill stretches; and sections that meander through hard-to-see, low growing, and prickly plants. So rugged footwear with good tread and trekking poles or a hiking staff are essential. Hiking downhill on loose surfaces can be particularly treacherous. To get to the trailhead, take the Mesquite exit off of I-10 and head east on County Road 8059 until you see the parking lot and cars at the Sierra Vista/Peña Blanca Trailhead a few miles up the road (GPS coordinates in decimal degrees are 106.6147230°W 32.2101338°N). We’ll start the hike promptly at 8:00 AM and be back around 1:30 to 2:00 PM. Please be well fed and well hydrated when you arrive. To be safe, carry several liters of water (with electrolyte if you prefer it) and lunch and/or snacks. Wear sunblock, a head covering, and comfortable hiking clothes appropriate for the weather forecast (please monitor with your online weather App).

Fillmore Canyon Hike
2026-03-29 09:00 - 12:00 | La Cueva Picnic Area, Las Cruces, NM, 88011, United States
Join Don on a hike to Fillmore Canyon. Learn about indigenous plant uses and the history of the Modoc Mine.
Location: Fillmore Canyon Trail-First La Cueva parking lot/picnic area
Duration: about 3 hours
Total Distance: About 2.5 miles. Please expect frequent stops along the way
Trail Conditions & Gear:
Moderate difficulty due to elevation gains and losses on uneven/loose surfaces. Hiking poles and comfortable hiking shoes or boots will be helpful and hikers should bring at least 1 liter of water and snacks. Remember to dress for the weather and check weather conditions before the hike. Expect many stops along the way!
Driving Directions:
Head to Dripping Springs Natural Area following University Ave/Dripping Springs Rd. (If you are at the Visitor Center at Dripping Springs, you drove too far.)
Take a left into the La Cueva area, approximately 0.5 miles before reaching the Dripping Springs Visitors Center
The meeting spot will be at the second parking lot in the La Cueva Group Site (Keep driving past first parking lot)
This is a free event but there is a $5 parking fee

DUE TO THE TRAIL BEING IN A WILDERNESS AREA, WE MUST LIMIT OUR CAPACITY

Sunrise Vista Hike
2026-03-22 08:00 - 23:00 | Sierra Vista Trail, Dripping Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM, 88011, United States
Sunrise Vista Guided Hike
Join us for an unforgettable outdoor adventure at the Sunrise Vista Guided Hike! On Sunday, March 22, 8am, we will embark on a scenic hike along the breathtaking Sierra Vista Trail in Las Cruces. This is a guided hike and we’ll be covering a total distance of 4 miles. Our guide will make frequent stops, so plan accordingly to ensure that he will have sufficient time to cover the material.
Location: Sierra Vista Trail (Dripping Springs Rd), Las Cruces, NM, USA, Las Cruces, NM 88011
SV Trailhead is .2 miles south of the intersection of the dirt road and Dripping Springs Road. Once you get to Sierra Vista, keep driving in.
Trail Conditions: Moderate slopes and some stretches of loose rock and gravel.
Gear: Dress for the weather conditions (check your weather app the morning of the hike). Comfortable hiking shoes or boots and trekking poles will be helpful. Carry a liter of water and light snacks.

Spring Canyon Clean up
2026-03-21 09:00 - 13:00
Join us for a volunteer cleanup at Spring Canyon within Picacho Peak.
Meeting Location & Time
Participants will meet at the intersection of Calle Vigas and the Picacho Mountain Loop Rd (in the Picacho Mountain development), adjacent to the retention pond by 9:00 am on Saturday March 21
From the meeting location, we will carpool approximately 3 additional miles to the trailhead (high-clearance vehicles only)
The hike to the spring is approximately 3 miles round trip of medium difficulty. Hiking poles may be helpful.
Cleanup will take place along the route and at the spring area.
We expect to return to the parking area by approximately 1:00 pm.
What to Bring

Work gloves (cleanup tools will be provided)

Plenty of water

Snacks

Sun protection

Sturdy hiking shoes

Clothing appropriate for the weather & to get messy in

Registration is optional but recommended, so we can send you important updates and reminders.

Volcanoes & Trail Dust: Picacho Peak Hike Pt. 2
2026-03-14 09:00 - 11:30, 2026-01-17 09:00 - 11:30 | Picacho Peak Recreation Area

Peña Blanca Guided Hike
2026-03-08 13:00 - 16:00 | Peña Blanca, County rd B059- 32.21004, -106.61459, Mesquite, NM, 88048, United States
Join us for a guided hike led by Tom Dormody, where you’ll discover the local plants and history of the area! The hike covers a distance of 4 miles round-trip.
Due to the nature of this Wilderness Area, we must limit the number of participants for this hike. Registration is required to attend!
MORE INFO
To reach the starting point, take the Mesquite exit off I-10 and head east on County Road 8059. Continue on County Road 8059 until you cross Las Alturas Drive (the east side frontage road of I-10). Keep heading east until you arrive at the Sierra Vista Trailhead parking lot, where we’ll begin our hike at 1:00 PM.

Trail difficulty: Challenging
Estimated duration: Approximately 3 hours-4 miles

RECOMMENDED GEAR:

Trekking poles and sturdy hiking shoes are advised.
Please ensure you stay hydrated before and during the hike, and bring along some light snacks

For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, please ensure you are physically prepared for this hike.

Broad/Lichen Canyon Hike
2026-02-28 08:00 - 11:00
Join us for a guided hike to Broad/Lichen Canyon Hike with Devon Fletcher
MORE INFO:
We will be carpooling from Mayfield High School @7:30 am
Hiking distance will be about 5 miles
Some Scrambling, going under fences and a small bit of climbing in Lichen Canyon. The terrain will be rough in places
Please plan to hike about 3.5 hours plus time to have lunch. Please pack a bagged lunch
Elevation gain of about 400 ft
PARKING:
We will be carpooling from Mayfield High School @7:30 am otherwise driving instructions are listed below from the BLM
From Interstate 25 at Las Cruces, drive for approximately 29 miles and take the exit for NM-185 N/N Valley Dr. towards County Road EO-06. At the NM-185 and County Road EO-06 junction turn left towards County Road EO-06. Drive for approximately 9 miles to the Wilderness Area boundary.
RECOMMENDED GEAR:
Plenty of water
Good hiking shoes
Snacks & bagged lunch
Sunscreen/Bug spray

Volcanoes & Trail Dust: Picacho Peak Hike
2026-02-14 09:00 - 12:00 | Picacho Peak Recreation Area
Volcanoes & Trail Dust, Part 1
This hike does not go to the peak but around the area
Date & Time: February 14, 2025
Location: Picacho Peak Recreation Area, Las Cruces, NM
Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours
Total Distance: About 3.5 miles. Our guides will make frequent stops along the way.
Ever wondered about that volcano in our backyard or what the “Butterfield Trail” was? Join us for a scenic, guided hike in the Picacho Peak Recreation area of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument and learn about the national monument, the geology of our area and the historic Butterfield Overland Trail. The focus will be geology. PT 2 will focus on History
Trail Conditions & Gear:
This hike is rated moderate due to some rocky and sandy terrain, uneven ground, and a few short inclines and descents. Hiking poles and comfortable hiking shoes or boots will be helpful and hikers should bring at least 1 liter of water. No water or restrooms will be available on this hike. Remember to dress for the weather and check weather conditions before the hike.
Driving Directions:
Take US Highway 70 west from Las Cruces to Picacho Hills. Turn north on Picacho Hills Drive and after 1 mile continue west on Barcelona Ridge Road. Travel 1 mile west and turn north on Anthem Road. Follow Anthem Road for 1 mile to its end. Turn north on Picacho Mountain Loop Road (unpaved) and follow this for 1.5 miles to the trailhead parking area. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended due to some rough and sandy areas in the unpaved road.

Fillmore Canyon Hike
2026-02-08 09:00 - 12:00 | La Cueva Picnic Area, Las Cruces, NM, 88011, United States
Join Don on a hike to Fillmore Canyon. Learn about indigenous plant uses and the history of the Modoc Mine.
Location: Fillmore Canyon Trail-First La Cueva parking lot/picnic area
Duration: about 3 hours
Total Distance: About 2.5 miles. Please expect frequent stops along the way
Trail Conditions & Gear:
Moderate difficulty due to elevation gains and losses on uneven/loose surfaces. Hiking poles and comfortable hiking shoes or boots will be helpful and hikers should bring at least 1 liter of water and snacks. Remember to dress for the weather and check weather conditions before the hike. Expect many stops along the way!
Driving Directions:
Going towards Dripping Springs, turn left at La Cueva. We will meet at the first parking lot at the La Cueva trailhead
Hike is free to join but attendees will be responsible for paying the $5 parking fee

DUE TO THE TRAIL BEING IN A WILDERNESS AREA, WE MUST LIMIT OUR CAPACITY

Sábados on Bikes!
2026-01-31 10:00 - 12:30
Originally scheduled for 01/24 but rescheduled for 01/31
Join us for a fun bike clinic for 1st-5th graders.
There will be games, obstacles, neighborhood ride, and free pizza thanks to Valley Pizza.
Bring your bike and helmet
East Picacho Elementary
4450 N. Valley Dr.

La Cueva Hike
2026-01-31 09:00 - 12:00 | La Cueva Picnic Area, Las Cruces, NM, 88011, United States
Join us for a guided hike to La Cueva to learn about the ethnobotany and history of the area.
MORE INFO:
Informational guided hike to visit La Cueva Archeological site from the first trailhead
Discover the resources used by and the history of Indigenous people, Giovanni de Agostini, and ranchers in the La Cueva area.
about 3 miles- Easy-Intermediate
Trail contains some steep climbs
Led by Tom Dormody
NO DOGS ALLOWED ON THIS HIKE
PARKING:
Head to Dripping Springs Natural Area following University Ave/Dripping Springs Rd. (If you are at the Visitor Center at Dripping Springs, you drove too far.)
Take a left into the La Cueva area, approximately 0.5 miles before reaching the Dripping Springs Visitors Center
The meeting spot will be at the second parking lot in the La Cueva Picnic Area (Keep driving past first parking lot)
This is a free event but there is a $5 parking fee

RECOMMENDED GEAR:
Plenty of water
Good hiking shoes
Snacks
Sunscreen/Bug spray

Sunset Vista Hike
2026-01-18 13:00 - 16:00 | Sierra Vista Trail, Dripping Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM, 88011, United States
Sunset Vista Guided Hike
Join us for an unforgettable outdoor adventure at the Sunset Vista Guided Hike! On Sunday, January 18, 1pm, we will embark on a scenic hike along the breathtaking Sierra Vista Trail in Las Cruces, NM, USA. This is a guided hike and we’ll be covering a total distance of 5 miles. Our guide will make frequent stops, so plan accordingly to ensure that he will have sufficient time to cover the material.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as we explore the stunning landscapes and witness the mesmerizing sunset views. Led by our experienced guide, Tom Dormody.
Location: Sierra Vista Trail, Las Cruces, NM, USA, Las Cruces, NM 88011
Trail Conditions: Moderate slopes and some stretches of loose rock and gravel.
Gear: Dress for the weather conditions (check your weather app the morning of the hike). Comfortable hiking shoes or boots and trekking poles will be helpful. Carry a liter of water.
Description: Enjoy some unique views of the Organ Mountains and other Desert Peaks as the sun starts to set during this scenic 5 mile hike on dirt roads and trails east of the Sierra Vista Trail.

Sunday Bike Ride in the DA's
2025-12-28 09:00 - 11:00 | Doña Ana Trailhead, Desert Wind Way, Las Cruces, NM, 88007, United States
Join Don for a fun, informative mountain bike ride through the Doña Ana Mountains! Bring bike & helmet and get ready for 3–6 miles of riding, adjusted to the group’s pace and interest.
Meet at the Doña Ana Mountains parking lot.Just show up, no RSVP needed!

Fillmore Canyon Hike
2025-12-27 09:00 - 12:00
Hike to Fillmore Canyon and back with Don as he shares
indigenous plant use and historical highlights along the way as
well as a Modoc Mine history sidebar. 2.1 miles roundtrip
Location: meet at the La Cueva Trailhead (1st parking area)
We ask folks to please be prepared with their own bottle of water and to wear comfortable footwear, and to also be mindful of the weather as the season transitions.

Dripping Springs Holiday Hike
2025-12-20 13:00 - 16:30 | Dripping Springs Visitor Center, 15000 Dripping Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM, 88011, United States
Join us for a magical holiday hike!
Learn local ethnobotany and the stories of Dripping Springs’
past while making some memories of your own on this guided hike
with docent Tom Dormody (3 miles round-trip).
Stick around after for a sweet, festive end to your trek!

Peña Blanca Guided Hike
2025-12-13 13:00 - 16:00 | Peña Blanca, County rd B059- 32.21004, -106.61459, Mesquite, NM, 88048, United States
Join us for a guided hike led by Tom Dormody, where you’ll discover the local plants and history of the area! The hike covers a distance of 3.5-4 miles round-trip.
Due to the nature of this Wilderness Area, we must limit the number of participants for this hike. Registration is required to attend!
MORE INFO
To reach the starting point, take the Mesquite exit off I-10 and head east on County Road 8059. Continue on County Road 8059 until you cross Las Alturas Drive (the east side frontage road of I-10). Keep heading east until you arrive at the Sierra Vista Trailhead parking lot, where we’ll begin our hike at 1:00 PM.

Trail difficulty: Challenging
Estimated duration: Approximately 3 hours, allowing ample time for exploration.

RECOMMENDED GEAR:

Trekking poles and sturdy hiking shoes are advised.
Please ensure you stay hydrated before and during the hike, and bring along some light snacks

Saturday Bike Ride in the DA's
2025-12-13 10:00 - 12:00 | Doña Ana Trailhead, Desert Wind Way, Las Cruces, NM, 88007, United States

Volcanoes & Trail Dust: Picacho Peak Hike
2025-11-29 09:00 - 12:00 | Picacho Peak Recreation Area
Volcanoes & Trail Dust, Part 1
This hike does not go to the peak but around the area
Date & Time: Saturday November 29, 2025
Location: Picacho Peak Recreation Area, Las Cruces, NM
Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours
Total Distance: About 3.5 miles. Our guides will make frequent stops along the way.
Ever wondered about that volcano in our backyard or what the “Butterfield Trail” was? Join us for a scenic, guided hike in the Picacho Peak Recreation area of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument and learn about the national monument, the geology of our area and the historic Butterfield Overland Trail. The focus will be geology. PT 2 will focus on History
Trail Conditions & Gear:
This hike is rated moderate due to some rocky and sandy terrain, uneven ground, and a few short inclines and descents. Hiking poles and comfortable hiking shoes or boots will be helpful and hikers should bring at least 1 liter of water. No water or restrooms will be available on this hike. Remember to dress for the weather and check weather conditions before the hike.
Driving Directions:
Take US Highway 70 west from Las Cruces to Picacho Hills. Turn north on Picacho Hills Drive and after 1 mile continue west on Barcelona Ridge Road. Travel 1 mile west and turn north on Anthem Road. Follow Anthem Road for 1 mile to its end. Turn north on Picacho Mountain Loop Road (unpaved) and follow this for 1.5 miles to the trailhead parking area. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended due to some rough and sandy areas in the unpaved road.

Picacho Peak Hike Pt. 2
2025-11-08 09:00 - 11:30 | Picacho Peak Recreation Area

Soledad Canyon/Bar Canyon
2025-11-01 09:00 - 11:30 | Soledad Canyon, 13300 Soledad Canyon Rd, Las Cruces, NM, 88011, United States
Where: Soledad Canyon
When: Saturday, November 1st at 9 AM; expected finish around 11:30 AM
Distance: Approximately 3 miles
Family-friendly event!
Join Jim Enright for this moderate hike of about 3 miles, which will take roughly 2.5 hours. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the area’s history and plant life. The route follows a maintained trail leading uphill to the Simmers Homestead before looping back. The path is somewhat rocky with loose stones, so wearing supportive footwear such as boots is recommended. Make sure to take plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Please note that there are no bathrooms or water available at the beginning or along the hike.

Doña Ana Tuesday Rides W/ Don
2025-10-28 17:30 - 18:30, 2025-10-21 17:30 - 18:30
Every Tuesday!
Join us for a sunset mountain bike ride and learn about your
monument lands along the way! Riders must bring their own trail-ready
mountain bike and helmet. Bike light recommended.
Meet at Doña Ana Mtn parking area
No registration needed.
