What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Mesa Chivato
Mesa Chivato is a very long loop trail near San Ysidro, NM. The trail, which is quite popular for both backpacking and camping in addition to hiking, features canyons, lightly wooded areas, and open stretches with very little shade. You'll want to bring lots of water and any necessary sun protection with you when you visit. As you traverse the trail, you'll be rewarded for your efforts with scenic views of the surrounding desert. The trail also offers lots of quiet solitude and many colorful wildflowers. Dogs are not allowed on the Mesa Chivato trail.
Length: 24.6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Los Indios Canyon
The Los Indios Canyon trail offers visitors a pleasant hike through the gorgeous canyons near San Mateo, NM. Known for its bird-watching opportunities and wonderful views, this hike is generally suitable for people of all fitness and ability levels. However, there are a few rocky and steep areas that require a bit of caution.
Length: 4.1 miles
Intensity: Easy
Fishing and Boating
Although the Ignacio Chavez Special Management Area and the surrounding land are mostly arid, you shouldn't have to travel all that far for fishing opportunities. Your best option will likely be the Santa Fe National Forest, which features many streams and nearly 20 fish-bearing lakes. There are destinations for both warm and cold water fishing, and some of the lakes even have established areas for angling. As for boating, the Rio Grande flows not too far east of the forest, and people frequently utilize its waters for rafting, kayaking, and canoeing.
Climbing
As far as designated climbing areas go, you likely won't find too many near the Ignacio Chavez BLM site. However, that doesn't mean there aren't excellent places for adventurous rock-climbing enthusiasts to explore. Because the landscape of the region features many rock formations, canyons, and cliffs, there are quite a few places where climbing is a worthwhile activity. You should be able to find many suitable areas both around the WSAs and within the Santa Fe National Forest.
Wildlife Viewing
Like many wilderness areas across the country, the Ignacio Chavez Special Management Area is teeming with wildlife. While exploring the wilderness or hiking along nearby trails, you may spot a coyote or mule deer scampering past. Elk are also common in the area, and even wild turkeys have been spotted nearby at times. The area is inhabited by quite a few cool bird species as well, such as red-tailed hawks, sharp-shinned hawks, jays, and juncos. The region has even been known to host golden eagle nesting sites.
Picnicking
While the Ignacio Chavez BLM area may not offer any picnic tables or shelters, it does offer the chance to enjoy lunch with a truly breathtaking view. If you'd like to experience the most adventurous picnic of your life, consider climbing to a safe cliff and laying out your picnic blanket a few yards from the edge.
