Amole Canyon has been a favorite cross-country skiing area for many years. Taos Sports Associates-Nordic (758-9292) constructred a 3.1 mile (5km) trail which is groomed as people and equipment permit.

The upper and lower loops are located on old logging roads. These 2 trails are not groomed on a regular basis. The Amole Loop (3.1 miles) is closed to snowmobiles. A portion of the upper and lower loops are open to snowmobiles.

The Amole Loop is an excellent beginner trail with its gentle slopes and open ponderosa pine stands and meadows. There is only a 300 foot elevation gradient from start to finish. The trail was designed with all skill levels in mind and there are detours around the steeper slopes to accommodate the novice.

The Lower Loop (6.1 miles) and Upper Loop (7.2 miles) are old existing logging roads and historic Comales Sheep Driveway. The Driveway was used for many years by local sheepmen driving their stock from winter range near Taos to summer range in the high country.

The Lower Loop is rated as most difficult due to the 1/4 mile of 20% grade. This portion is narrow and not recommended unless one has mastered steep, narrow courses.

The Upper Loop has a more gentle nature although it is approximately one mile longer. It is rated as more difficult. Near the head of Amole Canyon there are apporximately 200 yards of 20% grade. Recommended direction of travel for both the Upper and Lower Loops is up Amole Canyon. There are signs at intersections and blue diamonds designate the courses. For the adventurous, there are many unmarked logging roads in the area. Please don't travel alone. There is no patrol.

From Taos, follow State Highway 518 approximately 15 miles south of the junction of State Highway 68 and 518, approximately 2 miles past the U.S. Hill Vista (on the left). Parking is available on the left side (east) of the highway (Forest Road 4 entrance).

From the Camino Real Ranger Station take State Highway 75 north through Vadito for 5 miles to the junction of Sate Highway 518 and proceed 1.5 miles to the Amole Canyon Road. Parking lot on the right side of the highway.