San Gregorio Lake Trail - La Jara, NM
San Gregorio Lake Trail – Dog-Friendly Park in La Jara, New Mexico
San Gregorio Lake Trail is a scenic and pet-friendly hiking destination located near La Jara, NM. Known for its beautiful lake views and gentle hiking paths, this trail is ideal for dog owners looking for an outdoor adventure with their pets. Whether you’re experienced with hiking or seeking a leisurely day hike, the easy two-mile trail to the lake is accessible, and the surrounding wilderness provides a tranquil setting for both people and pups.
The trail offers several unique features for dog lovers, including a mix of shaded and open paths, access to streams, and plenty of fresh mountain air. There are bathrooms and a well-maintained parking area at the trailhead, making your visit more comfortable. Please be aware that in the summer months, cattle may graze nearby, which can make some parts of the area messy and attract flies. While camping is not allowed at the lake itself, the hike is close enough to nearby campgrounds to make a day trip convenient. For those looking for the best dog-friendly hiking near La Jara, the San Gregorio Lake Trail is sure to provide lasting memories for you and your four-legged friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are clean bathrooms located at the parking area.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a designated, well-maintained parking area at the trailhead.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the main feature is the hiking trail to San Gregorio Lake, which is about 2 miles each way.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are shaded areas, especially along the trails with aspen groves, although not all parts of the trail are shaded.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, some spots on the trail can be muddy after rainfall.
Reviews
The trail was amazing!
Keep this place a secret!
No camping at lake, 20 minute walk from camp though. You are not going to want to be at camp anyways. The pictures do the views no justice.
It’s beautiful up there but the cattle during the summer months, at least, make it pretty messy and smelly and attracts lots of flies, unfortunately.
Hike to the lake is about 2 miles back and out. The trail is easy. Road to the trail is dirt road but 2wd will do it just fine and no need for high clearance vehicle. One of us made it to the trailhead with a corolla. The lake view is beautiful, there were cows and waste on the other side of the lake.
One of my favorite places, I’ve been coming here for close to 30 years. Beautiful lake, gentle hike (although will have some muddy spots to navigate at times). I have so many wonderful memories that involve this lake.
The trail is great. Parking area is very nice and bathrooms on site are clean. What I love is that besides the marked trail to get to the lake, there is also the more dirt road like trail for people who don’t want to walk the rockier trail, or have trouble with the rockier trail. Its more open but it is shaded and you pass a couple of aspen groves. As you get closer to the lake you cross a small bridge, and there is a stream running next to you. Very pretty.