Guaje Ridge Trail (285)

Guaje Ridge Trail (285) is a long, predominantly downhill point-to-point hiking route in Los Alamos, New Mexico, mapped as a designated ground path with ref 285 and foot access. The usual way to hike it is west-to-east: start near Pajarito Mountain Ski Area and finish at the Mitchell Trailhead in north Los Alamos (shuttle or second vehicle required).

From the ski area area, the route heads north through Canada Bonito and then climbs to where it intersects Pipeline Road. Turn east on Pipeline Road to find the Guaje Ridge Trail (285) start—this western trailhead is easy to miss and is identified by a rock cairn rather than a sign.

Once on Guaje Ridge Trail (285), expect a narrow, partially overgrown tread that traverses through old fire burn scars (Cerro Grande from May 2000 and Las Conchas from June 2011). The trail often stays exposed, so plan on sun and heat; long sleeves/pants can help with the undergrowth described along the route.

For roughly the first half of the route, the trail steadily descends along the north side of a ridge system that overlooks and parallels Guaje Canyon, though it does not consistently run right along the ridge crest. After about 1.4 miles, it crosses the Mitchell Trail (#69).

At the Mitchell Trail (#69) intersection, the Guaje Ridge Trail continues the descent toward the canyon bottom, and the final miles lead out to the Mitchell Trailhead and its access near north Los Alamos. The route is isolated, with extensive 360-degree panoramic viewing opportunities at various points along the way, which contributes to its overall exposure.

Bring enough water for the whole hike since there may not be a convenient place to fill. Because the route passes through exposed areas and burn-scar terrain, prioritize route-finding: scout the start location (rock cairn) in advance and use offline navigation; when it’s wet, conditions can make a narrow, overgrown path harder to track, so be prepared to slow down and confirm your line before committing through tricky sections.

More information: Map, Pajarito Ski Hill to Los Alamos North - Trail Run Project