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New Mexico
9.1 mi
Distance
2,161 ft
Gain
We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.
What we do know
Inside Lincoln National Forest
2 managing-area boundaries mapped — agency alerts for them feed this page automatically.
Boundary data
What's missing
No access route mapped
We don't yet know which road reaches this trailhead, so we can't tell you if it's gated.
Nobody's filed a report here yet — be the first.
Why you'll love it
Benson Cyn
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
Benson Canyon offers a moderate day hike through classic New Mexico high desert terrain, gaining over 2,100 feet of elevation across 9 miles of scenic canyon country. This trail showcases the region's characteristic piñon-juniper forests and dramatic canyon walls, with rewarding views of the surrounding landscape. The steady climb makes this an excellent choice for hikers building endurance while enjoying the solitude of a less-crowded New Mexico trail.
Willie White
~2 min drive
Moderate 9.2-mile New Mexico trail with 1,980 ft elevation gain.
Dark Canyon Trail (5700)
~2 min drive
Moderate 5.7-mile canyon trail with 1,333 ft elevation gain in New Mexico.
Benson Cyn S.
~3 min drive
Easy 2.92-mile canyon hike with 278 ft elevation gain.
Taylor Cyn
~5 min drive
Moderate 4-mile canyon hike with 1,323 ft elevation gain near Taylor Canyon.
Hubbell Cyn
~6 min drive
Moderate 8.8-mile canyon hike with 1,624 ft elevation gain in New Mexico.
Willie White Spur Trail (112)
~2 min drive
Short spur trail with minimal elevation gain near Willie White area.
Shortcut
~6 min drive
Quick 1-mile trail with gentle elevation gain near Shortcut, NM.
Benson Ridge
~6 min drive
Scenic 4.6-mile ridge hike with 424 ft elevation gain near Benson Ridge.
Chippeway
~8 min drive
Moderate 6.4-mile New Mexico trail with 566 ft elevation gain.
Trail 9279
~3 min drive
Quick 2-mile climb with 590 ft gain through New Mexico high desert.
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