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New Mexico
6.4 mi
Distance
2,342 ft
Gain
We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.
What we do know
Inside Carson National Forest
3 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
Cow Lake
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.
Cow Lake Trail is a moderate 6.39-mile round-trip hike featuring 2,342 feet of elevation gain through New Mexico's scenic high country. This trail climbs steadily through mixed conifer forests, offering hikers a rewarding alpine lake destination with panoramic mountain views. The consistent elevation gain and moderate distance make this an excellent choice for hikers building endurance while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Dry Fork
~1 min drive
Steep 2.3-mile climb through piñon-juniper forest with significant elevation gain.
Gavilan Canyon
~1 min drive
Easy canyon hike through scenic Gavilan Canyon with modest elevation gain.
Columbine Canyon
~3 min drive
Moderate 6.5-mile canyon hike with 3,100 ft elevation gain in New Mexico.
Columbine Creek Trail #71
~4 min drive
Easy 1.55-mile creek-side hike with 376 ft elevation gain.
Italianos Canyon
~2 min drive
Easy 2-mile canyon walk through scenic desert terrain near Italianos Canyon.
Willow Fork
~3 min drive
Moderate 5.4-mile climb with 2,675 ft elevation gain in New Mexico.
Placer Fork
~3 min drive
Steady 8.72-mile climb gaining 3,737 ft through New Mexico forest.
Deer Creek Trail #69
~6 min drive
Moderate 5.5-mile creek-side hike with steady elevation gain in New Mexico.
Placer Fork Shortcut
~3 min drive
Quick 1.23-mile foothills shortcut with moderate climbing.
Wheeler Summit
~12 min drive
Alpine summit hike with stunning Sangre de Cristo Range views.