Hike the San Antonio Mountain Trail

The view from San Antonio Mountain.

NPS/C. Rae

This strenuous, 11-mile (17.7 km) out-and-back trail heads south from Valle San Antonio, up a narrow drainage, and then steadily climbs as it passes through several beautiful glades before terminating just below the summit of San Antonio Mountain. Good opportunities for wildflowers, especially in spring and fall.

Elevation: 8,394 - 9,922 feet

Details

Duration

5-6 Hours

Activity

Backcountry Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

Yes

As of January 1, 2025, a park entrance fee is required to enter Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Location

San Antonio Creek Trailhead

The trailhead is a locked cable gate marked VC08 on the south side of the road, about 4.2 miles west of the T-junction. Park in the small dirt pull-out adjacent to the trailhead along the road. Backcountry vehicle pass required.

Reservations

Yes

Vehicular access to Valles Caldera's backcountry route is limited to 40 public vehicles per day. Passes can be reserved on Recreation.gov up to 3 months in advance.

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

The backcountry is closed to vehicular traffic from November 15 - May 14.

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

This unpaved, natural surface trail has steep grades. Service animals permitted.