Oeste Vista Trail in Angel Fire, New Mexico
(see trail description below map)




OESTE VISTA GREEN BELT TRAIL DESCRIPTION

The Oeste Vista trail combines hiking through deep forest with grand views towards the west of Monte Verde lake, the golf course and surrounding hills and the Wheeler wilderness. There is only one entrance to this loop trail. The trail starts across from the entrance to the golf resort on a small dirt road between the Qwest telephone building and one of the towns well systems. The length of the trail is 3 miles with an elevation gain of 600 feet.

The trail is well marked with red diamonds, clear of down fall & debris and most of the trail has been leveled and widened. The trail is meant to be hiked using the lower trail going south & the upper trail going north. Please follow this rule as the contour design and signs assume this approach.

The trail starts at the information sign and travels east along a dirt road for 200 yards to a large mound of dirt. A sign directs you right across a very small stream to the forest entry. The first part of the trail is moderately steep, since switch backs could not be used, as the trail threads between private property. Please stay on the trail!

The trail levels off at the top of this stretch and weaves south through a forest of pine, large ponderosa & clusters of pinon. Several ravines are encountered but they are easily crossed. At several places on your right you can take excursions to large rock croppings and fern filled deep ravines. Crossing the last & most dramatic ravine, you will hike a series of switch backs. Following the trail on a gradual climb you will reach the turn around point and another series of switch backs. This is an excellent spot to take a break at the picnic table with views of Monte Verde Lake

At the top of the switch backs you will be on the upper loop. Portions of this trail have not been widened. The trail is a well used elk trail and deer & elk can be seen. The upper loop provides the best views so stop and enjoy often. When you reach a dirt road, turn left and then right at the sign. The trail intersects another dirt road and continues down the road till you are back to the parking area.

Trail description and map contributed by Frank Young.