A look at New Mexico’s waterfalls

Sitting Bull Falls (Lincoln National Forest), Nambé Falls (Nambé Pueblo), Brazos Falls (Ensenada), Soda Dam (Jemez Springs), Tips for visiting New Mexico’s waterfalls

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) — The Land of Enchantment is known for its beautiful views. Some of them can be found throughout the state’s various waterfalls.

We’ve compiled a list of New Mexico’s best waterfalls. You can take a look down below.

Sitting Bull Falls (Lincoln National Forest)

Sitting Bull Falls (Lincoln National Forest), Nambé Falls (Nambé Pueblo), Brazos Falls (Ensenada), Soda Dam (Jemez Springs), Tips for visiting New Mexico’s waterfalls

Lincoln National Forest Sign | Adobe Stock

Forty-two miles from Carlsbad, the Sitting Bull Falls sit at 150 feet. They are ADA accessible through a path to the falls viewing area not far from the parking lot. There are also several hiking trails, sheltered picnic sites with tables and grills, along with water, trash cans, and restrooms. 

Nambé Falls (Nambé Pueblo)

These falls are located foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. There are goods and services at the ranger station with roads ranging from good to fair. Available species include rainbow and cutthroat trout, and salmon.

Brazos Falls (Ensenada)

At 2,400-feet, these falls are considered New Mexico’s tallest waterfall. This is a seasonal waterfall that’s only active from April to May each year. The timing depends on the snowpack from the upper cliffs and when spring thaws it out.

Soda Dam (Jemez Springs)

Sitting Bull Falls (Lincoln National Forest), Nambé Falls (Nambé Pueblo), Brazos Falls (Ensenada), Soda Dam (Jemez Springs), Tips for visiting New Mexico’s waterfalls

Soda dam along Jemez River creates beautiful waterfall near Jemez Springs, NM

This intricate rock formation features a water fall. It’s located right off of New Mexico State Road 4 and surrounded by 15 hot springs.

Tips for visiting New Mexico’s waterfalls

Before you head out the door, here are some tips for visiting New Mexico’s waterfalls.

  1. Dress sensibly
    • You may run into unsteady terrain, so sturdy footwear as well as comfortable clothing are key. Depending on the season, you could consider dressing in layers.
  2. Bring water
    • If it’s expected to be a warmer day, hydration will be crucial as you navigate some of the trails leading to these water falls.
  3. Check directions
    • Finding some of these falls may be tricky. Be sure to understand where you’re going before you get behind the wheel.
  4. Be aware of the season
    • Some of these falls are seasonal. Spring time when prior snowfall may be thawing out is often the optimal time to catch the falls in action.
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