Big Bonito Loop Trail is a 16.9 mile loop trail located near Nogal, New Mexico that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and birding and is best used from April until November. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
dogs on leash
birding
hiking
nature trips
walking
views
wild flowers
The loop is good. Many alternate trails like Turkey Canyon and Argentina Canyon. NOTE: the road to the trailhead was blocked by an Army Corp of Engineers gate. You can either alter the route slightly by going to Three Rivers Campground or start the hike at the Bonito trailhead west of Bonito Lake.
Beautiful views. Water in the creeks were flowing enough to filter water.
The trail was awesome, the loop system was very convenient. The views from atop the crest trail were beautiful. It's April 12 and we had some snow still on the trail but very manageable.
Took this trail by accident but turned out to be a perfect morning hike. Lost count on the number of times we crossed the creek but it was never difficult to cross even after recent rains. Could have sworn we saw a mountain lion track but I'm no expert. Didn't worry too much since we were all adults and hiked close together. The top of the trail comes out in the sun making it seem really warm (65 in the mountains, lol). Hoping to get back to connect to the crest trail for a possible overnight hike. Lots of good places to set up camp.
Hiked about 5 miles to crest trail. Took left. Hiked to top then back down. 12 mile hike. Very good hike. Recommend Crest trail when u get to end.
If your dog loves water, they will love this hike. There are many little water crossings which makes for nice splashing. I recommend spending time around the creek.