Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks National Monument
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We spent two nights at Aguirre Spring Campground in Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks National Monument, and it’s hard to beat the views straight from camp. This first-come, first-served campground is primitive, quiet, and somehow only $7 a night, which feels like a clerical error in your favor. Wildlife sightings were minimal, but there were cows nearby. Nothing like some mooing to go with your morning coffee.
Campsite at Aguirre Spring
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The Pine Tree Loop Trail starts right from the campground, which is always a win. The loop is about 4.2 miles with roughly 1,000 feet of elevation gain, topping out around 6,700 feet. It was chilly most of the hike, but the kind of cold that keeps you moving. The trail winds through junipers, oaks, and mountain mahogany, slowly opening up to wide views over the Tularosa Basin and across the Organ Mountains.
One of the highlights along the way was a massive alligator juniper with thick, deeply textured bark that looked like it had been holding this place together for a long time. I named him Big Poppa. Yes, Big Poppa got a hug.
This place was a gem—low key, quiet, and absolutely beautiful.
One of the highlights along the way was a massive alligator juniper with thick, deeply textured bark that looked like it had been holding this place together for a long time. I named him Big Poppa. Yes, Big Poppa got a hug.
This place was a gem—low key, quiet, and absolutely beautiful.