Camp at Hopewell Lake Campground and set off on two day hikes — one headed north, the other headed south on the CDT. To the south, the CDT meanders through a mixed forest with 456 feet of elevation gain in the first 6.7 miles. To the north, the trail crosses US-64 and winds through sparse forest and grassland. The campground has picnic tables, vault toilets, and water, which is turned off in winter. You’ll find the trail crossing at the end of the campground loop or the road to Hopewell Lake. If you plan to dispersed camp on the CDT, you must camp 300 feet away from the highway and designated camping areas.
Overnight on the CDT from Hopewell Lake, Carson National Forest
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Maps
USGS 7.5 quadrangle: Burned Mountain; USFS: Carson National Forest – Forest Visitor Map.
Length
Variable (1 – 14 miles)
Directions
From Chama, head south on NM-17 S/Terrace Ave toward 6th St for 1.5 miles. Continue onto US-64 E/US-84 E for 13.9 miles. Turn left onto US-64 E and continue for 29.9 miles. Turn right and continue onto Forest Rd 42B for 0.3 miles before reaching the campground.
Closest Town
Chama
For More Information
Carson National Forest, Tres Piedras Ranger District: (575)-758-8678.