Socorro Valley Bosque Trail

Dogs Leashed

Trail markers are sparse and navigation can be a bit difficult without a map. Recommend following the track provided by downloading the GPS track or using the Hiking Project mobile app.

The "Jetty Jacks" (steel erosion control structures) that follow the river valley create small hazards in the southern section of the trail. Watch for angle iron protruding at the edge of the track.

The Socorro Valley Bosque Trail extends from the Otero River Park to Confluence Park in Socorro, NM, connecting four riverine parks with a series of singletrack trails and two-track connectors. A doubletrack also extends to the BLM Socorro Nature Area in Lemitar, NM for a longer walk.

The trail is mostly flat and winds through and under the old cottonwood trees along the river. Out-and-back spurs provide access to the river and scenic views. The mapped southern segment of the trail, from Socorro to the Confluence River Park is primarily singletrack and is the most scenic, with opportunities to see wildlife such as mule deer, cranes, geese, and other migratory birds that vary by the season. The confluence park is a natural terminus point for hikers who wish to stay on the singletrack.

Extending north of Confluence Park is a doubletrack trail that continues to the Socorro Nature Area in Lemitar. The middle segment from Confluence Park to Escondida Park is through an active restoration zone with limited shade. Cottonwood trees return after Escondida park. The trail joins the ditch bank road briefly and crosses on a pedestrian bridge before arriving at the Socorro Nature Area.

The Socorro Valley Bosque Trail is part of the planned Rio Grande Trail, is located on a combination of BLM and Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District lands, and is maintained by the Save Our Bosque Taskforce.