Hyde Memorial State Park Santa Fe NM
A serene mountain escape near Santa Fe, offering stunning fall foliage, hiking, camping, and a peaceful retreat amidst pines and aspens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall aspen colors
Hyde Memorial State Park Santa Fe NM
Best Time
Peak fall aspen colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mountain escape near Santa Fe, offering stunning fall foliage, hiking, camping, and a peaceful retreat amidst pines and aspens.
"Beautiful state park with trails and camping, a nice cool morning fall hike -lots of trees, very few people."
🎯 Catch the Fall Colors
Visit in early to mid-October for stunning aspen foliage. Weekdays are best to avoid crowds.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be muddy or uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aspen Vista Trail
Aspen Vista Trailhead
Wander through a breathtaking forest of golden aspens, especially vibrant in the fall. A must-see for photographers!
Black Canyon Trail
Black Canyon Trailhead
Experience the magic of tall pines and crisp mountain air on this scenic hike. Perfect for a soul-refreshing nature escape.
Waterfall Trail
Waterfall Trailhead
Discover a unique cascade, sometimes partially frozen in cooler months, offering a beautiful, albeit sometimes challenging, walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fall Colors
Navigating Trails and Potential Pests
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Fall Colors
Visit in early to mid-October for stunning aspen foliage. Weekdays are best to avoid crowds. +1
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be muddy or uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
⚠️ Check Park Alerts
Be aware of potential caterpillar outbreaks that can cause irritation.
🗺️ Visitor Center Signage
Signage at the visitor center can be minimal; ask staff for directions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Fall Colors
Visit in early to mid-October for stunning aspen foliage. Weekdays are best to avoid crowds. +1
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be muddy or uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
⚠️ Check Park Alerts
Be aware of potential caterpillar outbreaks that can cause irritation.
🗺️ Visitor Center Signage
Signage at the visitor center can be minimal; ask staff for directions.
🏕️ Yurt Stays
Yurts are clean but lack tables and have small beds. Screens may be torn.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hyde Memorial State Park for its beautiful natural scenery, especially the stunning fall colors and well-maintained trails. The friendly staff and less crowded atmosphere compared to other Santa Fe attractions are also highlighted as positives. However, some guests experienced issues with trail difficulty descriptions, uncomfortable yurt accommodations, and bothersome caterpillar infestations during certain times of the year.
"New visit to this area by fairly fit seniors. Beautiful state park with trails and camping. We started on an early hike elsewhere but was too muddy so we came up here on a whim, parked in the campground lot away from the main road and walked towards the lodge where we found signage for east west circle trail. It was a nice cool morning fall hike -lots of trees, very few people, and a well marked/maintained trail- can’t ask for more."
Tyler Dylan
"We visited the park today on a whim and are so glad we did. The lady working at the visitor center was friendly and beyond helpful. I wanted to see the waterfall but have hip issues. She advised us which trail would be easiest to navigate and I was so excited I made it. The falls are half frozen so cascading at the top and then flowing under ice which was beautiful. Restrooms are available and parking was easy when she told us where to go. Definitely worth the trip."
Kim Whaley
"Good launch pad to explore and avoid crowds compared to more "popular" and perhaps easier access trailheads. I will be back again and will choose this spot again to go explore other trails for shurz."
Ryan Morgan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hyde Memorial State Park is located about 15 miles southeast of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Take US-285 S/US-84 S and then turn onto Hyde Park Road (NM-475). The drive offers scenic views as you ascend into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. +1
Public transportation options directly to Hyde Memorial State Park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have your own car.
The driving distance is approximately 15 miles, and it typically takes about 30-40 minutes to reach the park from Santa Fe, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Yes, parking is available at various trailheads and the campground area. However, parking at the Visitor Center can be confusing due to 'no parking' signs, so it's advisable to ask for guidance.
Yes, Hyde Memorial State Park is on the same road (NM-475) that leads to Ski Santa Fe. The drive between them is scenic and takes about 15-20 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific fee information can vary, state parks often have day-use fees. It's recommended to check the official New Mexico State Parks website or contact the park directly for the most current admission prices and operating hours.
Hyde Memorial State Park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like the Visitor Center may have limited hours. It's best to confirm current operating hours before your visit, especially during off-peak seasons.
Yes, advance reservations are highly recommended for camping and yurt stays, especially during peak seasons like fall and summer. You can usually book through the New Mexico State Parks reservation system.
For activities like Parks on the Air (POTA), it's always a good idea to check with park management regarding any specific regulations or permits that might be required for amateur radio operations.
While some areas might be accessible, official park entry typically requires a fee. Parking in designated areas and accessing trails usually falls under the park's fee structure.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Aspen Vista Trail for fall colors,+1 the Black Canyon Trail for a serene forest experience,
and the Waterfall Trail, which offers unique cascades but can be challenging.
Many trails are well-marked and maintained.
Yes, Hyde Memorial State Park offers opportunities for family fun, including hiking and camping. Some trails are easier for younger hikers, and the natural setting provides a great outdoor adventure. +1
The park is home to various wildlife, including deer, elk, and numerous bird species. Keep a safe distance and enjoy observing them in their natural habitat.
Restrooms are available within the park, and picnic areas are scattered throughout, offering convenient spots for a meal amidst nature.
Popular activities include hiking, camping (tent and RV), picnicking, and enjoying the scenic beauty. In winter, ice skating is also an option. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The Aspen Vista Trail is a prime location for capturing stunning fall foliage. +1 The scenic mountain vistas and forest landscapes offer numerous picturesque opportunities throughout the park.
+1
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most flattering light for landscape photography. Mid-day can be harsh, but the dense forest canopy provides shade.
Drone usage is typically regulated in national and state parks. It's essential to check the specific drone policies for Hyde Memorial State Park and Santa Fe National Forest before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture expansive mountain views, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Beyond the Aspen Vista Trail, look for clearings along the roads and trails that offer panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The area around the lodge also provides scenic backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for trails that are well-marked and have less elevation gain for a more enjoyable experience with children. The chance to see local wildlife can also be a highlight for kids. Remember to check for any park alerts regarding insects or trail conditions before your visit to ensure a smooth and pleasant family outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Be sure to inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. While many trails are well-maintained, it's always wise to be prepared with essentials like water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit. The park's natural beauty and the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle make it an ideal destination for a rejuvenating solo adventure.
📸 Nature Photographers
Beyond the fall foliage, the park's mountainous terrain, dense forests, and potential for wildlife sightings provide diverse photographic subjects year-round. Early morning and late afternoon light (golden hour) will yield the most dramatic and beautiful results.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Autumn's Golden Spectacle
Beyond the aspens, the park's diverse flora contributes to the autumnal charm. The crisp mountain air, combined with the visual feast of changing leaves, makes for an unforgettable visit. Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the stunning landscapes, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Navigating the Trails and Park Amenities
For those planning an overnight stay, the park provides camping facilities and yurts. While the yurts are clean, reviewers note a lack of tables and small beds, and some have experienced torn screens, impacting the ability to enjoy fresh air without insects.
Understanding Park Alerts and Visitor Experiences
This can be a significant concern for some visitors, impacting their experience, especially if they are sensitive. Despite potential challenges like the caterpillars or trail conditions, many visitors find Hyde Memorial State Park to be a valuable escape. It's often described as a good 'launch pad' to explore the area and avoid larger crowds found at more popular trailheads.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit