Hiking Dog Canyon Trail in Oliver Lee Memorial State Park
When living out in the desert, sometimes, it can start to feel like all of the views look the same. Especially if you’re someone who values spending time outside and exploring the surrounding area. I most definitely can relate to this feeling. I’ve found, that sometimes the best way to gain a new appreciation for the area is by altering the angle from which you view the landscape. Often, putting in the work to get to a higher vantage point will be just the thing.
This is what I experienced while hiking Dog Canyon Trail, a challenging 10.3 mile trek with an elevation gain of 3579 ft. This trail has earned some historical significance since it has been used for over 4000 years! While it will require ample water, snacks, and determination, the sights you’ll encounter as you ascend provide a whole new perspective on the desert. Personally, it’s my favorite in the area- just be sure to go prepared.
Quick Glance
- Distance: 10.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 3579 ft
- Level: Challenging
- Time: 6-8 hours
- Traffic: Light-Moderate
What you’ll Need:
- Proper Footwear (ie, trail shoes or hiking boots)
- Sun screen
- Other sun protection like hats or light weight long sleeve shirt
- Multiple full water bottles or hydration system
- Snacks
- Optional- Trekking Poles
Getting there:
Dog Canyon Trail is located inside of Oliver Lee Memorial State Park which is just a 30 minute drive from White Sands National Park. You can purchase a day pass ahead of time Here, or upon arrival, you can stop in at the Visitor Center to purchase one at the self-pay stations. Note that the pay stations do not give change. It is $5 per vehicle, so if you plan on doing this hike with a friend, a recommend driving together.
You’ll find the trailhead right behind the Visitor Center!
Things to know before you start your hike:
Dog’s are welcome, but I wouldn’t recommend taking them past mile 3, the trail gets pretty technical after that.
There are no restrooms on trail, and there are very few secluded spots to take care of business during your hike. So I recommend using the ones at the visitor center before heading out.
The Hike:
Your climb will start almost immediately, with only a couple of spots where you’ll get some reprieve when the trail flattens out for a bit. The initial climb primarily consists of switchbacks, allowing you to enjoy various views from different angles of the canyon and surrounding area. Despite the trail’s difficulty, it is very well maintained. We found it very easy to follow, never finding ourselves uncertain of where to go next. However, I recommend proper footwear since you may still come across loose rocks and gravel.
Like most climbs, as you ascend, the view only get better, so don’t forget to turn around. Throughout the trail, you will encounter various types of vegetation and rocks. There are two significant climbs before you reach a high meadow. This is where you can take a break from the incline and you’ll probably be at the point where you’re ready to enjoy lunch or a snack. Wait until you get to the remnants of the cabin. There is a small bench area where you can rest, or find a spot under the large trees just before it. This is one of the very few spots on trail where you will be able to get shade!
Many people will turn around at this point, resulting in a 6 mile hike, still filled with fantastic views.
Continuing your way up, the trail will get much more narrow and steep and will take you along the base of a cliff. This section is known as the “Eyebrow”, and it is the most rigorous part of the hike, gaining 1000 feet of elevation in just 0.8 miles. Exercise extra caution from this point onward, since you will be hiking along an edge with no barrier from the drop off. This is where I personally believe the best views are though! If I were to do this hike again, this is where I would turn back, which is around 4.5 miles in.
The final climb is up an open hillside for the final mile. Unfortunately, the views do not change much from here, and honestly, aren’t particularly spectacular. Once you reach the top, the trail (and specifically, if you’re following AllTrails) will lead you to Forest Road 90B. This serves as your turn around point, and you’ll head back the way you came. I’m glad I completed the entire trail , it was a great challenge, but as I mentioned before, there is not really much to see after mile 4.5. The very end of the trail lacked luster for me.
Conclusion:
The desert holds immense beauty, especially for those willing to put in the effort. Dog Canyon offers a strong challenge with rewarding views that definitely make it worthwhile- whether you choose to complete the entire trail or just a portion. There’s so much to experience on this 10 mile journey, giving you just a taste of what this small corner of New Mexico has to offer.
