There are numerous canyon tours that can be taken to visit numerous Natural Arches surrounding Aztec, NM. To discover many more arches in this area and explore over 20 canyons, go to the Aztec Visitor Center website for aerial maps showing locations of arches and canyons: www.aztecnm.com/aztec/arches/tour.htm.

The canyons below have the number of arches recorded to date.

Arch Canyon 1

Bloomfield Canyon 1

Caballo Canyon 17

Cerritos Canyon 15

Cox Canyon 2

Crow Canyon 12

Ditch Canyon 4

Hart Canyon 3

John Brown Canyon 2

Kirk Canyon 5

La Manga Canyon 2

Little Pump Canyon 8

Mansfield Canyon 4

Minix Canyon 1

Mud Canyon 3

Pemada Canyon 12

Pilares Canyon 20

Potter Canyon 5

Pump Canyon 41

Slane Canyon 25

Vaca Canyon 17

Vereda Canyon 20

Trail Distance: Varied depending on tour. From 100 ft to 1/2 mile hikes.

The land is owned by BLM and no formal trails have been established.  Some arches are visible from the road, but many require hiking distances from 100 ft to 1/2 mile.

Many regional back-country roads, commonly referred to as oil and gas roads, are not maintained by any governmental agency. During or after inclement weather these roads can become rutted, bumpy and very slippery. Getting stuck or worse is a very real possibility, so we encourage the use of four-wheel-drive vehicles. Additionally, oil and gas roads change frequently—new roads are added when new wells are drilled. For added safety and comfort:

• Pack food and water (take more than you expect).
• Drive dependable transportation (with ample fuel).
• Take a first-aid kit, compass and GPS.
• Pack a topographical map.
• Charge your cell phone.
• Wear seasonal clothing.
• Be aware of rattlesnakes.

Dogs are permitted on hikes, but be aware that rattlesnakes are present in the region.