Monica

Monica is a moderate out-and-back hike in the Magdalena Ranger District of Cibola National Forest in New Mexico, about 3.7 miles long with a one-way elevation gain of 1,297 feet. The trail rises from a low point of 8,173 feet to a high of 9,511 feet, and the Forest Service manages the land. The route is natural-surfaced and open to both horses and bikes, so it works for riders and pack animals as well as hikers. It is open year-round, and the nearest town is Socorro, about 1.2 miles away. For comfortable weather, aim for late spring or early fall. Typical averages from a nearby weather station at Pietown show May highs around 73°F and September highs around 75°F, while July and August bring the most wet days, about 11 and 12 a month. That station sits roughly 1,550 feet lower than the trail's high point, so temperatures on the summit run cooler. Nearby, the Socorro Area climbing area is about 1.2 miles away, and the Potato Canyon and Chimney hikes are each within about 2 miles. The Water Canyon Trail is about 2.8 miles off.