Robledo Mountain

Overview

Robledo Mountain is part of the small Robledo Range located about 15 miles north of Las Cruces, New Mexico. Robledo Mountain is the highest point in the range and is a prominent landmark when driving along I-25 in southern New Mexico. There are few trails in these mountains and even fewer people. The summit has a register that has only seen ~20 signatures over the past 6 years.

Although the range is relatively small don't let the footprint fool you. Robledo Mountain shoots up nearly 2000 vertical feet from the banks of the Rio Grande River that flows 1.25 miles east of the peak. The peak is steep and rocky on all sides and offers a fun day of desert hiking and scrambling. The summit of Robledo offers spectacular views of the local Dona Ana peaks and an interesting perspective on the Rio Grande River in southern New Mexico.

Getting There

There are not any established trailhead in the Robledos. A popular access point can be found by exiting I-25 at exit #19 north of Las Cruces. Head west on NM 157 for about 1.5 miles until an intersection with NM 185. Turn right on 185 and head northwest through the small village of Radium Springs. On the north side of the town turn left on Faulkner Canyon Road and follow the sandy, gravel road through a gate (0.7 miles from 185). A popular canyon entry point can be found 1.1 miles past the gate.

Following Faulkner Canyon Road as it continues south and eventually wraps around the back side of the Robledo Range is also a popular alternative that puts a hiker closer to both Robledo Peak and Lookout Peak, but then you'd miss out on some of the great canyons on the northwest side of the range.

Red Tape

In 1997 the BLM declared much of the Robledo Mountains a Wilderness Study Area (WSA). This was done after BLM officials noticed a disturbing increase in vehicular traffic even in the most rugged canyons. Apparently a number of unauthorized OHV rallies had been held in the area and the environmental effects were disturbing. Hiking and camping are allowed throughout the range. Remember to leave no trace.

Camping

Undeveloped camping is allowed throughout the Robledo Range. There are also a number of developed sites at Leasburg Dam State Park.

External Links

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Images

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