Deer Trap and Kwage Mesa Trailheads
The mesa top trailheads on Deer Trap and Kwage mesas offer trail users access to flat, easy trails that head east to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Rio Grande rift. Loop trip opportunities are limited, but the out-and-back excursions offered here are worth exploring.
Finding the Deer Trap and Kwage Mesa Trailheads
Finding the Trailheads: From 15th Street and Central Avenue in downtown Los Alamos, head west (towards the Jemez Mountains) on Central. In 0.8 miles, past Ashley Pond and the Aquatic Center, turn right onto Diamond Drive. Pass the Los Alamos High School and the Los Alamos Golf Course to reach the San Ildefonso roundabout located 2.4 miles from the intersection of Central and Diamond.
To access the Deer Trap Trailhead, circle three-quarters through the roundabout and head uphill on North San Ildefonso Road. In 0.3 mile, continue straight onto Barranca Road as San Ildefonso Road makes a sharp left. Follow the road 1.3 miles to a dead end just past the intersection with Navajo. There is parking for a few cars along the dead-end section of the road.
Get to the Kwage Mesa Trailhead from the roundabout by bearing right on South San Ildefonso. Head south, then east on this road, passing the Los Alamos Middle School. About 0.1-mile past North Mesa Road on the left, turn left onto an unnamed road heading toward the stable area. The road swings to the right and ends at a parking area at the North Mesa Tennis Courts. The trailhead is on the left of the playlot.
Download the Trailhead Info Guide
Using Los Alamos County Open Space
The Los Alamos County Trail Network is open to non-motorized use only.
Resource Protection
All cultural resources such as Ancestral Pueblo room blocks, pot shards, petroglyphs, and historical artifacts are protected by Federal and State law. Let all cultural resources lie undisturbed.
Share the Trail
These are multi-use trails for pedestrians, equestrians, and bicyclists. Bicyclists should yield to all other users.
Dogs in Los Alamos County Open Space
All dogs must be on a leash when within 100 yards of a trailhead. Dogs must be under voice and sight control at all times.
Safety
When exploring, please stay on marked trails. Always carry water, sunscreen, a hat, extra clothing, a flashlight, and a navigational aid.
Trailhead guides are available at major trailheads, the Los Alamos County Customer Care Center in the Municipal Building, the Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce, and online.