Forest Road 10 (Jemez Mountains)

Forest Road 10 cuts a rugged line through the volcanic heart of the Jemez Mountains, starting near Fenton Lake and winding southeast toward Los Alamos. This 30-mile forest service road crosses the massive Valles Caldera rim, threading between ancient volcanic domes and through dense stands of aspen and ponderosa pine. The route passes Redondo Peak, the collapsed dome at the caldera’s center, and offers glimpses into one of the largest volcanic complexes in North America.

This is a solid moderate trail requiring high-clearance 4WD, especially during spring snowmelt and summer monsoons when creek crossings can turn nasty. Best tackled May through October when snow clears above 9,000 feet. No permits needed, but bring extra fuel and water – services are nonexistent between Cuba and Los Alamos. The payoff is solitude in volcanic country few see, with dispersed camping opportunities and access to hot springs if you know where to look.