There’s something special about New Mexico hiking trails that keeps calling me back. With rugged landscapes, forested mountains, and the kind of solitude that wraps around you like a warm blanket, each trail offers a unique experience. This September, I set out to hike the Hamilton Mesa Trail #249, which runs high above Jack’s Creek and follows the Pecos River. The trail begins near the Jack’s Creek Campground, not far from the sleepy village of Pecos, New Mexico, and ends at a footbridge crossing the river. It was an adventure that reminded me why hiking in the Land of Enchantment never gets old.

The Village of Pecos, NM: Gateway to Wilderness

The journey began in Pecos, a small village about 25 miles from Santa Fe, nestled at the gateway to the Pecos Wilderness. If you’re heading into the mountains, Pecos is the perfect place to pick up some last-minute supplies—maybe a burrito from a local café or a water bottle from the general store. With its historic church, adobe homes, and quiet streets, Pecos feels like a step back in time. But the village is more than just a waypoint; it’s a reflection of the cultural heartbeat of northern New Mexico, with deep Hispano roots and a connection to the land that runs as deep as the Pecos River itself.

Jack’s Creek Campground: A Serene Starting Point

From Pecos, it’s a scenic drive to Jack’s Creek Campground, where the trailhead for Hamilton Mesa Trail #249 begins. At around 8,000 feet in elevation, the campground is tucked in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It’s a great place to camp if you want to explore the area over multiple days, or just a spot to park if you’re day-hiking like I was. There’s ample parking at the campground, and though it’s relatively busy during the summer months, by September, the crowds thin out, leaving you with a quiet, peaceful start to your hike.

Before I hit the trail, I double-checked my GPS coordinates (35.8920° N, 105.6591° W) to make sure I was on the right track. Even though the Hamilton Mesa Trail is well-marked, I always like to have a backup in case I lose my way. The air was cool that morning, with the first hints of fall color creeping into the aspens and cottonwoods.

What to Wear for September Hiking in the Pecos Wilderness

In September, the weather in this part of New Mexico can be unpredictable. Mornings are brisk, afternoons can be warm, and you might get a sudden mountain shower. I dressed in layers, with a moisture-wicking shirt, fleece pullover, and a light rain jacket tied around my waist. The trail sits at high elevation, so sturdy hiking boots are a must. And don’t forget a hat—up here, the sun feels closer and more intense, even on cool days. I also packed a buff for the wind, which can pick up at higher elevations.

Hiking the Hamilton Mesa Trail #249

The Hamilton Mesa Trail #249 is around 5.5 miles one-way, stretching along the ridge with stunning views of the Pecos River valley below. The trail gradually ascends, but it’s never too steep—perfect for a steady, enjoyable hike. The Pecos River cuts through the valley like a ribbon of life, carving out canyons and feeding lush meadows where elk often graze. The trail is surrounded by a mix of ponderosa pine, aspen, and spruce trees, providing plenty of shade and making it a pleasant hike, even when the sun is out.

As I hiked along the mesa, I kept catching glimpses of the Pecos River far below, a reminder of how the river has shaped the land over millennia. The Pecos River begins high in the Pecos Wilderness, its headwaters originating from snowmelt in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. From there, it flows over 900 miles, eventually merging with the Rio Grande at Lake Amistad in Texas, where its waters help feed the borderlands and beyond.

A Footbridge Across the Pecos River

After several miles of hiking, the trail dips down towards the Pecos River, leading to a footbridge that crosses the clear, cold water. Standing on that bridge, watching the river rush below, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the landscape. The Pecos River may eventually leave New Mexico behind, but up here, in the mountains, it’s still pure, still wild.

The footbridge marks a turning point in the hike, and from here, some hikers continue deeper into the wilderness, while others, like myself, choose to turn back. The journey had been more than worth it—wide open skies, the scent of pine, and the distant hum of the river following me like a melody.

The Pecos River: From Headwaters to Rio Grande

What struck me most during this hike was how the Pecos River connects New Mexico to a larger story. From its headwaters in the wilderness, the river flows through a diverse landscape—high mountain meadows, deep canyons, and desert plains—before finally meeting the Rio Grande at Lake Amistad on the Texas-Mexico border. This confluence is a vital part of the region’s water system, providing sustenance to the arid southwest. It’s remarkable to think that the water rushing beneath the footbridge would one day flow into the Rio Grande and continue its journey across vast stretches of land.

Back to Santa Fe: Reflecting on the Day

By the time I made my way back to Jack’s Creek Campground, the late afternoon light was turning the peaks golden. The hike had taken most of the day, but I still had time to drive back to Santa Fe before sunset. Reflecting on the day’s adventure, I felt grateful to live in a place where wild spaces like the Pecos Wilderness are just a short drive away.

In the end, the Hamilton Mesa Trail #249 delivered everything I could hope for in a New Mexico hike—solitude, breathtaking views, and a deep connection to the land and its history. If you’re looking for an escape into the wild, far from the noise and rush of everyday life, this trail should be at the top of your list. Just don’t forget to stop in Pecos for that last cup of coffee before you head out.

Quick Facts for Hiking Hamilton Mesa Trail #249:

• Location: Pecos Wilderness, near Jack’s Creek Campground

• GPS Coordinates: 35.8920° N, 105.6591° W

• Trail Length: 5.5 miles (one-way)

• Elevation: Approximately 8,000 – 10,000 feet

• Best Time to Hike: September for cooler weather and fall colors

• Parking: Jack’s Creek Campground

• Village of Pecos: A charming stop for supplies and history before your hike

• Clothing: Dress in layers, sturdy boots, hat, rain jacket

If you’re planning a trip to experience the best of New Mexico hiking trails, be sure to add Hamilton Mesa Trail to your itinerary. It’s a trail where the mountains, rivers, and wilderness come together to create an unforgettable experience.