Heron-El Vado Lakes

New Mexico Outdoor

Roughing It In Luxury-Abiquiu, New Mexico 505.901.7321

Heron-El Vado Lakes

As the Rio Chama flows from Colorado South towards it's rendezvous with Rio Grande, it "cuts" some of the most beautiful country.

The lakes, only a few miles apart, are reservoirs ..Heron Lake to the North:

And El Vado Lake to the South:

We saw loads of Mule Deer:

Just After the Trailhead:

A winding wooden staircase leading down some few hundred feet into the canyon to the river between the two lakes:

And an old style suspension bridge over the rapids:

Indeed..just South of this area, the Rio Chama listed as "Wild and Scenic"!

Many Backpackers, Fishermen, Kayakers and Bird Watchers "flock" here! Heron Lake ..in many a Fall ..has Salmon snagging..for there are far too many headed into Winter from the stock. Imaging having 20 lbs of Salmon in the freezer..it's a typical catch! Bird watchers are watching the very healthy population of Osprey ..who, of course are watching the Salmon.

The kayaks are here for the "Wild and Scenic" aspects of the river..and can run 25 miles until "Big Eddys TakeOut" nearer us!

The trail-head is on the North end and about 50 miles from us. The hike is Moderate and there are loads of Mule Deer, Black Bear, Coyotes and Mountain Lion.

The loop hike South (To El Vado Lake-Below) and the return about 6 miles. Dan

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