Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument
Dramatic desert peaks, canyons, and woodlands offering hiking, camping, and stunning natural beauty near Las Cruces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Chase seasonal waterfalls!
Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument
Best Time
Chase seasonal waterfalls!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic desert peaks, canyons, and woodlands offering hiking, camping, and stunning natural beauty near Las Cruces.
"Beautiful desert with breathtaking views of the mountains. Many different trails, great picnic areas."
Bring Cash for Parking
Some trailheads, like Dripping Springs, require a $5 cash permit. Come prepared! :moneybag:
Hydrate & Snack Up!
Essential for desert hiking. Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks. :water_buffalo:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dripping Springs Trail
Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument
An easy 2-mile loop with ruins of an abandoned sanatorium and potential seasonal waterfalls. Great for families!

Pine Tree Loop Trail
Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument
A scenic loop offering breathtaking desert views and a chance to experience the unique flora of the region.
Baylor Canyon Road Views
Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument
Drive this road for stunning, unobstructed views of the Organ Mountains, especially the iconic 'Needles'.

Mexican Poppy Fields
West side along Baylor Canyon Road & East side along Aguirre Springs Road
During bloom season, these fields erupt in vibrant yellow, painting the desert landscape with color.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Waterfalls
Trailhead Access & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Parking
Some trailheads, like Dripping Springs, require a $5 cash permit. Come prepared! :moneybag:
Hydrate & Snack Up!
Essential for desert hiking. Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks. :water_buffalo:
Check for Waterfalls
Monsoon season brings seasonal waterfalls. Check forecasts before you go! :umbrella:
Pet-Friendly First Half Mile
Pets are allowed on Dripping Springs Trail for the first half mile only. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Parking
Some trailheads, like Dripping Springs, require a $5 cash permit. Come prepared! :moneybag:
Hydrate & Snack Up!
Essential for desert hiking. Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks. :water_buffalo:
Check for Waterfalls
Monsoon season brings seasonal waterfalls. Check forecasts before you go! :umbrella:
Pet-Friendly First Half Mile
Pets are allowed on Dripping Springs Trail for the first half mile only. :dog:
Sunset Views from Car
Enjoy stunning sunsets without a strenuous hike; great views accessible from your car. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning desert landscapes and dramatic mountain views, particularly the Organ Mountains themselves. The Dripping Springs Trail is a highlight for its historical ruins and potential seasonal waterfalls, while sunset views are easily accessible and uncrowded. Some note the lack of restrooms and the need for cash for parking permits.
"Loved this area, especially the Pine Tree Trail loop. Also did the Dripping Springs hike but it wasn't as exciting in mid-April. Staff at AB Cox were super friendly. You get good views of the Needles while driving on Baylor Canyon Road."
Vipul Singh
"The best place to see the sunset in lovely Las Cruces. Uncrowded. I take my almost 80 yo father here to see the sunsets every time we visit. It’s easy to get a great view and even photos from your car. Bring water and don’t expect to find restrooms."
Heidi Evans
"Excellent hiking area.
Check out my hikes on YouTube
Tim Running Outdoor Adventures"
Tim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
No, there isn't a single main entrance or gate like in some national parks. The monument is spread across several areas. Popular access points include trailheads like Dripping Springs and La Cueva. :world_map:
The Dripping Springs Trailhead is located at 15000 Dripping Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM 88005. It's about a 15-minute drive from Las Cruces. :car:
Baylor Canyon Road is often unpaved and can be rough, especially after rain. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and it's best to check conditions before driving. :road:
Yes, Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is approximately an hour's drive from El Paso, Texas, making it a popular day trip destination. :texas:
Restroom facilities are not widely available at most trailheads within the monument. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or plan accordingly. :toilet: reviews
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no general entrance fee for the monument itself. However, some popular trailheads, such as Dripping Springs, require a $5 cash parking permit. :ticket:
The monument does not have set operating hours; it is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, individual trailheads may have specific access limitations. :clock:
For general access, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan on specific activities or group events, it's always best to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for any permit requirements. :memo:
For most day hiking, no special permits are needed beyond the potential parking fee at certain trailheads. For more extensive activities like overnight camping or group events, permits may be necessary. :scroll:
The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument was established to protect significant prehistoric, historic, geologic, and biologic resources of scientific interest. It safeguards areas like the Organ Mountains and Desert Peaks. :gem:
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Dripping Springs Trail (easy, ruins, potential waterfalls), Pine Tree Loop Trail (scenic desert views), and La Cueva Trail (Fillmore Canyon). For a challenging hike, Organ Mountain Peak is a strenuous 10-mile round trip. :hiking_boot:
Yes, seasonal waterfalls can be found, particularly after monsoon rains. The Dripping Springs Trail is a good spot to look for them. :droplet:
Absolutely! The dramatic mountain peaks, desert landscapes, and potential for colorful sunsets and poppy blooms offer incredible photographic opportunities. :camera:
While there isn't a dedicated visitor center within the monument itself, the AB Cox Visitor Center in Las Cruces can provide information and maps. :information_desk: reviews
You might spot various desert wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Remember to admire them from a distance and never feed them. :deer:
📸 📸 Photography
Many visitors find that driving along Baylor Canyon Road or Aguirre Springs Road offers excellent, unobstructed views of the mountains bathed in sunset light. You can often get great shots right from your car. :sunset: reviews
The Mexican Poppies typically bloom in the spring, painting the desert landscape with vibrant yellow. Look for them on the west side along Baylor Canyon Road and the east side along Aguirre Springs Road. :flower:
The jagged peaks of the Organ Mountains themselves are a dramatic subject. The 'Needles' formation, visible from Baylor Canyon Road, is particularly striking. :mountain:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast desert landscapes and mountain vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific peaks or rock formations. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. :tripod:
Drone usage in National Monuments is subject to federal regulations. It's crucial to check the latest FAA and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) guidelines regarding drone operation in protected areas before flying. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Budget Travelers
Adventure Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Adventures in the Organs
For those looking for more immersive desert scenery, the Pine Tree Loop Trail provides a rewarding experience with beautiful desert flora and expansive views. More adventurous hikers can tackle the strenuous Organ Mountain Peak trail, a demanding 10-mile round trip with over 4,000 feet of elevation gain, offering unparalleled panoramic vistas. Remember to always check trail conditions, carry ample water, and wear appropriate footwear, as desert terrain can be unforgiving.
Seasonal Wonders: Waterfalls and Wildflowers
Another breathtaking natural display occurs during the spring bloom, when fields of Mexican Poppies erupt in vibrant yellow across the desert floor. These colorful blooms can be seen on both the west side of the monument along Baylor Canyon Road and the east side along Aguirre Springs Road. Visiting during these bloom periods offers a unique and visually stunning experience of the desert ecosystem.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the mountains, the desert floor presents its own photographic charm. During the spring, the Mexican Poppy blooms create carpets of yellow, offering a vibrant contrast to the arid surroundings. The ruins at Dripping Springs also add a layer of historical intrigue for photographers. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including wide-angle lenses for landscapes and a tripod for low-light conditions, and always be mindful of the desert environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit