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Capilla Peak Campground an island in the sky
Capilla Peak Campground glistens in the morning light and the golden hour glow.
Reaching it as a hiker requires a slog up the Manzano Crest Trail or in a vehicle making a slow, deliberate drive from Torreon along New Mexico State Road 55 and Forest Road 245.
What makes this destination unique are three special sites with covered, Appalachian Trail-looking shelters that offer respite from the wind and the sun. Hawks soar on thermals overhead, and mule deer graze on grass nearby.
In June, while Albuquerque sizzled, the crisp mountain air just miles and up, up, away from the scenic town of Mountainair cooled the soul.
This camping destination with eight spots and a group shelter sits more than 9,150 feet at the top of a nearly 10-mile, winding, steep road with switchbacks and views that will take your breath away. The road does not require four-wheel drive, but it would be helpful.
It is well-maintained, easy to drive for the first four miles, and usually open April until November. Four miles up at New Canyon Campground, FR245 is gated during the off season, according to the National Forest Service website.
The start of the gravel road is about an hour east and south of Albuquerque.
Capilla Peak on the west gives you access to the Manzano Mountain Wilderness, the HawkWatch’s raptor counting station and the Manzano Mountains fire lookout. The camping area has restrooms and picnic tables, but no water. The sites are $10 at full price and $5 for those with senior passes, and are first-come, first serve. I visited on a Saturday in June and only two sites were occupied. The group site can be reserved.
