CDT South
The CDT heads south from NM Highway 197 after a four mile drive from the Cuba. The trail follows a seldom driven dirt road for approximately 1 1⁄2 miles until – after passing sandstone cliffs – it crosses the wide Chiquilla Wash. It then becomes a narrow footpath marked by white posts and cairns (large rock piles) and travels through a wide arroyo to the top of Mesa Portales.

It is 6.2 miles round-trip from the parking area to a scenic viewpoint in a narrow sandstone saddle of Mesa Portales. There are scenic vistas along the entire route including badlands, sandstone cliffs, and mountain and mesa views from the Mesa Portales rim. Mountain bikes and dogs are allowed on this section of trail. Use caution crossing Chiquilla Wash – areas of quick sand exist when wet and the wash is prone to flash floods.

CDT North
The CDT heads north out of Cuba via the Los Pinos Trail. This trail follows the Los Pinos Creek for 3.1 miles while ascending nearly 2,000 vertical feet from the Nacimiento Mountain foothills to the top of the San Pedro Parks Wilderness. Once on top, a network of wilderness trails invites further exploration. Vegetation along the trail is lush and amazingly diverse. Wildflowers bloom in profusion from May to September. Views are limited until one reaches the top of the mountain.

This trail is suitable for short or long excursions and is an excellent entry point for longer trips into the San Pedro Parks Wilderness. The trail is rated as difficult due to the elevation gain and loss. Round trip to the end of the trail and back is 6.2 miles and may take from 3 to 6 hours. Camping is allowed by permit at the trailhead and in the San Pedro Parks, but be sure to practice Leave No Trace and make sure any campfire is completely out before leaving the area.