Bisti De-Na-Zin Wilderness Guided Hike

Discover the weather-sculpted sandstone, shale, coal, and silt formations of northwest New Mexico’s Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness. Join Navajo and Pueblo guides for a hike through a remote high-desert landscape filled with striking rock formations.

1. Discover formations including Stone Wings, the Alien Throne, and the Egg Hatchery
2. Spend about 5 hours exploring, covering approximately 5–6.5 miles on foot
3. Hike mostly flat terrain with uneven surfaces and occasional high steps; moderate overall difficulty
4. Explore at approximately 5,771 feet in elevation, with about 65 feet of elevation gain
5. Practice Leave No Trace and help preserve this fragile wilderness

Important details

1. Requires extended walking on uneven terrain; not recommended for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility
2. Meet your guide at the “Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness” sign at the intersection of Highway 371 and County Road 7297, between mile markers 70 and 71. After crossing the cattle guard, wait on the pavement
3. The meeting point is approximately a 45-minute drive from Farmington, New Mexico. From there, follow your guide in your own vehicle for about 3 miles along a gravel road to the trailhead. The road is accessible to all vehicle types
4. Transportation is not provided. Guests must drive their own vehicles and arrive with a full gas tank
5. The usual start time is 10:00 a.m. Mountain Time. Sunrise and afternoon departures are available on select dates; confirm the time shown on your booking
6. Sign a liability waiver before the tour begins
7. Bring 1–2 liters of water, SPF 30+ sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes, and salty and sweet snacks
8. Optional items include a light meal, sun umbrella, wide-brimmed hat, phone charger, wool socks, and trekking poles
9. Cellular coverage is spotty in the area
10. Two vault toilets and a shaded picnic area are available at the trailhead
11. Pack out everything you bring in. Leave all fossils, rocks, artifacts, rock engravings, and historical sites undisturbed
12. A 3% Bureau of Land Management Special Recreation Permit fee applies