New Mexico · Hiking

San Mateo

13.3 mi
round trip
2,874 ft
climb
9,520 ft
high point
Out and back
route

Is San Mateo open right now?

Alert in the area

The Forest Service lists an alert for Magdalena Ranger District.

  • Magdalena Ranger District Bear Trap Campground Closure Order #03-03-03-26-01

    Agency alert covering Magdalena Ranger District · Order 03-03-03-26-01 · USFS · Magdalena Ranger District

As of · Source: USFS · Magdalena Ranger District. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

San Mateo is a hard hike in the Magdalena Ranger District of Cibola National Forest in New Mexico, managed by the Forest Service. The route is an out-and-back that climbs from about 6,850 feet to roughly 9,520 feet, with a total elevation gain of 2,874 feet over a distance of about 13.3 miles. The trail is natural-surfaced and allows horses, but bikes are not permitted. It is open year-round, and the nearest town is Magdalena, which makes it a natural base for exploring the district. The climb is a long one, and the route is rated hard. The Maverick hike starts just 0.1 mile away, and Milo and Smith are both within about 3 miles. Climbers can find the Upper Park climbing area about 8 miles off.