Trekking San Lorenzo box and slot canyons
Sometimes there is a terrific hiking opportunity practically in your backyard and you feel silly to have not learned about it sooner. San Lorenzo Canyon, which consists of a box canyon and several off-shooting slot canyons, located north of Socorro, New Mexico is a perfect example. Located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands approximately 4-5 miles west of Interstate 25, we first learned about the canyon through a relative visiting from out-of-state.
Majestic rock formationThe trip to the canyon is a bit of an adventure in itself and it’s important to contact the local BLM field office in Socorro or the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. Both can give you excellent feedback and guidance on how to safely get to and from the canyon–smartphone and online navigation/maps NOT the best option here, as you are traversing remote rugged roads and even along a dry (at the time) arroyo bed.
These offices can also warn you of any existing/impending weather dangers, particularly the risk of muddy conditions or worse–any potential for flooding from rain/snow melt at the canyon or upstream. A check of local weather forecasts for the area is imperative too.
Entering of the slot canyonsAS the photos indicate, the rock formations throughout San Lorenzo Canyon are amazing and consist of all kinds of fascinating shapes and sizes. The slot canyons can be explored on foot. They range in length, though none are longer than around a half mile. In each instance, going further would have required some tricky and dangerous scrambling, which we are not qualified for, nor prepared to attempt.
Please note that this traveling to San Lorenzo Canyon, as well as hike/trek should NEVER be attempted without checking on the conditions with local and reliable sources listed previously in this post ahead of time. As this is high desert, conditions can change rapidly. Always be prepared with the appropriate gear, clothing, food, and water before starting out, regardless o the length of the planned hike. It’s also important to notify a contact of where you are headed and of your plans/schedule before leaving.
One of the archesEnjoy the images throughout the post. They don’t do justice to the timeless and rugged beauty of this canyon and its surroundings. Peace and always trek safely and smartly!
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