A 640-acre outdoor playground just east of Gallup, where dramatic red sandstone cliffs, scenic trails, cultural history, annual festivals, and family-friendly camping come together.
Red Rock Park Trails
Among the most breathtaking red rock trails in New Mexico, the two routes at Red Rock Park offer distinct ways to experience the high desert.
The Pyramid Rock Trail is Gallup's flagship hike, drawing visitors with its dramatic terrain and sweeping views at the summit. Church Rock Trail winds through striking desert scenery to the base of the towering Church Rock sandstone spires.
Church Rock Trail
Trail Type: Out-and-Back
Duration: 2.2 Miles (about 1 hour)
Uses: Hiking
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 255 ft, steady increase
Terrain: Sandy
Church Rock Trail is a round-trip hiking experience that ascends to the majestic sandstone spires after reaching an elevation of 7,240 feet. Venture closer to these remarkable formations by navigating through a bit of scrambling, and follow the trail as it contours along deep, vertical canyons at the spires' base. This hike begins with Church Rock Trail's stem which is 0.7 miles and continues on to the loop at the end of the stem that is 0.8 miles long.
Note: Follow the cairns to stay on the trail. There are sheep paths in the area that depart from the Church Rock Trail.
Pyramid Rock Trail
Trail Type: Out-and-Back
Duration: 3.4 Miles (about 2 hours)
Uses: Birding, Hiking, and Mountain Biking
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 751 ft, steep inclines
Terrain: Sandy and rocky
Pyramid Rock Trail at Red Rock Park beckons adventurers to conquer the park's highest point, Pyramid Rock, at an elevation of 7,487 feet. Follow the trail along a scenic ridge with sweeping views of the red rock canyons as you navigate through switchbacks. Reaching the summit rewards you with a breathtaking panorama, showcasing Gallup, the historic bunkers of Fort Wingate, the Zuni Mountains, and, on clear days, the distant silhouette of Mount Taylor.
For those looking to customize their hike, the Pyramid Rock Trail is 1.7 miles one way and has a connector to the Church Rock Trail that is 1.3 miles long.
Find more trail information here.
What to Pack for a Day Hike at Red Rock Park
- Water Bottle – With little to no shade along the trails, staying hydrated is essential. Bring more water than you think you'll need, especially on warm days.
- Sunscreen – Protect your skin from the high desert sun and apply a generous layer of sunscreen before you hit the trail.
- Hat – A wide-brimmed hat goes a long way when you're hiking under open skies. Keep the sun off your face and neck so you can focus on the stunning scenery around you.
- Sturdy Shoes or Hiking Boots – The terrain at Red Rock Park is sandy, rocky, and uneven in places, so leave the sandals at home. A pair of supportive hiking boots or trail shoes will keep you sure-footed from start to finish.
- Binoculars – Red Rock Park is a fantastic spot for birding. Pack a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at the species that call these dramatic sandstone formations home.
- Camera – Between the towering red rock formations, sweeping desert vistas, and vivid blue skies, you'll want a way to capture it all.
- Snacks – Both trails can be completed in a few hours, but that's no reason to go hungry. Pack a granola bar, trail mix, or your favorite hiking snack and take a moment to rest and refuel while enjoying the views. When you're done hiking, Gallup's restaurants are just a short drive away to round out the day.
Bringing your dog? Red Rock Park is dog-friendly and your pup will love the adventure just as much as you do! Be sure to bring a leash, waste bags, and plenty of extra water to keep your four-legged hiking buddy happy and comfortable on the trail.
Directions from Gallup
Travel 6 miles east on Route 66 (Hwy 118), turn left (north) onto Hwy 566, after 0.5 mile turn left again into the Park Entrance and follow signs to Pyramid Rock Trail or the Outlaw Trading Post.
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