La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail System

The La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail System is right against the city limits of Carlsbad. There are more than 15 miles of maintained trails for hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers on the 2,200 acres. The trails wind through the rugged Chihuahuan Desert and into the limestone foothills of the Guadalupe Mountains. For mountain bikers in particular, the trails are rated everything from easy to difficult, allowing you to pick and choose what level of workout you'd like today...

Other than a parking area and trail signs, there are no facilities. You'll want to bring several gallons of water for each person in your party: this area is hot to very hot for most of the year.

The La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail System is on Carlsbad's southwest side, partially inside the city limits. Go west to Standpipe Road from Lea Street, turn south and go 3 miles to the gravel access road. Then go right and travel about 1/4 mile to the parking area and trailhead.

The property is open year round with no fees.

Maps: BLM - Carlsbad