Perea Nature Trail

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

Perea Nature Trail is a trail located within the Jemez Mountain Range in New Mexico, sitting just north of Albuquerque. The Jemez Mountains span 118 miles, covering areas of both the Santa Fe National Forest and the Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation. Perea Nature Trail is a great spot for outdoor activities, especially hiking, wildlife viewing and fishing. This site is public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM manages over 245 million acres of land throughout the United States. Many outdoor enthusiasts use the Bureau of Land Management campgrounds to spend time in nature. Almost all BLM lands can be camped on for free. To find campgrounds, search for “BLM camping near me” online. Perea Nature Trail is nearby numerous sites worth a visit, including national forests, parks and preserves. The nearest national parks to Perea Nature Trail are Great Sand Dunes National Park and Petrified Forest National Park. Both parks are open year-round.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Perea Nature Trail

This trail is a short loop covering the mountain peak of the Jemez Mountains. Perea Nature Trail can be used for biking, hiking and trail running. This loop is not paved; however, it is well-cleared of brush. Length: 0.8 miles Intensity: Easy

Dragon’s Back Trail

Dragon’s Back Trail is a route used primarily for mountain biking. This trail has gradual climbs and descents and can be difficult to do without a bike. Bring water with you for this route, as there is none available at the trail. Length: 3.4 miles Intensity: Difficult

San Ysidro Trail Loop

The San Ysidro Trail Loop is close to the Perea Nature Trail. This is a moderately challenging loop best suited for mountain biking and hiking. This route brings visitors through paths of cacti, tall grass, and shrubs. Dogs off-leash are welcome in some areas on this trail. Length: 5.8 miles Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

Fishing is possible nearby at Zia Reservoir. This lake offers several species of large fish for conventional and fly-fishing. For those looking for boating opportunities, Fenton Lake State Park is located north of Perea Nature Trail. This state park houses a large lake surrounded by ponderosa pines. Not only is there great trout fishing year-round, but this park also has a boat ramp for non-motorized boating activities.

Climbing

There are several nearby sites for rock climbing and bouldering. Ponderosa Bouldering is available on public land in the Jemez Mountain Range. For some, Ponderosa is known as having the best bouldering in the state. Additionally, the Jemez Cattle Wall is nearby for rock climbing. This is a great spot for beginners, offering several routes of roadside climbing.

Wildlife Viewing

Perea Nature Trail and the surrounding areas remain home to a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. Wildlife viewing near Perea is a highly memorable experience. Aside from several species of birds, visitors may see black bears, mountain lions, and elk. The Jemez Mountains salamander, a currently endangered species, may also be seen. When viewing wildlife here, be sure to keep a safe distance.

Picnicking

Perea Nature Trail does not have any official picnic sites on the route; however, this should not stop you from taking a break to enjoy a meal. Since Perea Nature Trail is managed by the BLM, any common area can be used for rustic picnicking. To do so, simply bring a picnic blanket and choose a scenic, private spot. In busier seasons, you should avoid picnicking directly on the trail, as the route itself can have frequent foot traffic.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV Camping is possible at Stagecoach Stop RV Park. This park is well-loved because of the solitude offered away from city traffic. Stagecoach Stop RV Park offers affordable rates, full hookups, and access to a dump station. Balloon View RV Park is also near Perea Nature Trail.

Free Camping

Perea Nature Trail does not have any official campsites. Visitors, however, can still camp primitively and for free on any public land managed by the BLM. While there is no way to reserve primitive campsites, Bureau of Land Management free camping options are available on a first-come first-served basis. Dispersed camping does not offer any amenities. Visitors should plan to bring their own equipment, water, and food.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Perea Nature Trail BLM trip

When planning your trip to Perea Nature Trail, you will want to pack according to the time of year you are going. During the summer months, this area sees high temperatures in the 90s. In the winter months, the area can see below-freezing temperatures. Be sure to pack cool clothing in the summer months. Keep in mind that Perea Nature Trail may have little to no cell reception. With this in mind, visitors may need to plan accordingly regarding directions and safety. Some travelers choose to print directions to the site prior to traveling. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

When traveling to BLM-managed land, visitors are required to practice Leave No Trace guidelines. Leave No Trace is a set of principles that direct visitors to be conscious of their effect on wildlife and nature. These guidelines include seven principles that can be applied anytime you are participating in outdoor recreation. To Leave No Trace during your visit to Perea Nature Trail, ensure that you are disposing of all waste properly, minimizing campfire impacts, and respecting all wildlife.

Perea Nature Trail Location

Perea Nature Trail is best accessed from Bernalillo, north of Albuquerque. From Bernalillo, take US 550 north for approximately 20 miles. After crossing Rio Salado via the bridge, take a quick left along the Rio Salado. The entrance to the trail is marked with a sign at this site. Address: 22759-22825 US-550, San Ysidro, NM 87053 Ready to visit Perea Nature Trail? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.