Hyde Memorial State Park: What to Know Before You Go
An Outdoor Getaway Above the City
A short drive up Hyde Park Road from downtown Santa Fe, Hyde Memorial State Park sits tucked into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains along Little Tesuque Creek. One of New Mexico’s earliest state parks, it ranges from about 8,300 to 9,400 feet in elevation, which means cooler air and quieter trails than you’ll find near the Plaza. If you’re planning an outdoor getaway that doesn’t require a long drive out of the city, this is one of the easiest ways to trade downtown for pine forest for an afternoon.
Hyde Memorial State Park Trails and What to Know Before You Visit
Also known as Hyde Park Santa Fe, the park sits at 740 Hyde Park Road and covers 355 acres. Its lodge, visitor center, and several picnic and camping shelters were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1938 and 1942, and the Hyde Memorial State Park Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2021.
The main draw is 4.2 miles of hiking trails winding through ponderosa pine, part of the larger Santa Fe National Forest, with several difficulty levels to choose from. The half-mile Piggyback Trail and the 0.31-mile Girl Scout Trail are rated easy, while the western portion of the Circle Trail is considered difficult, climbing about 1,000 feet in one mile. Beyond hiking, you’ll find picnic areas, a playground, and a volleyball court, along with good birding and wildlife viewing throughout the park.
Hyde Memorial State Park Weather and Trip Planning
Hyde Memorial State Park weather runs cooler than the city below because of the elevation, but the bigger factor is how quickly mountain conditions can shift. The official trail guide recommends dressing in layers, carrying plenty of water, and accounting for how altitude itself affects hikers. In winter, snow can open the park to cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing when conditions and park rules allow, so check current alerts before heading up the mountain.
The park charges a small day-use fee for both New Mexico residents and nonresidents, though residents are exempt from October through April. Cell service is poor to nonexistent once you’re up there, so download maps and directions before you leave downtown.
Your Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast After a Day on the Trails
With so many things to do in Santa Fe, Hyde Memorial State Park should only be part of your visit. Spend the morning on the trails, then head back into town: walk Canyon Road’s galleries, sample local craft beer at Santa Fe Brewing Company, or add a scenic rail ride to your itinerary. Either way, Santa Fe hiking trails are just one piece of the trip.
Afterward, our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast is close to Hyde Memorial State Park while still putting you near the galleries, restaurants, museums, and historic sites of downtown Santa Fe. We offer six individually decorated guest rooms with Southwestern character, four with private entrances plus two in a historic house, each with its own garden patio to unwind in after a day outdoors. Individually controlled heat and air conditioning and Wi-Fi throughout the property mean you’re comfortable no matter the season. In the morning, a buffet-style breakfast in the dining room or on the patio includes a hot entree, fresh fruit, cereals, yogurt, juice, coffee and tea, and a rotating selection of home-baked goods.
Book your stay and start planning your state park getaway today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hyde Memorial State Park?
Hyde Memorial State Park sits at 740 Hyde Park Road, a short drive up Hyde Park Road from downtown Santa Fe, in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains along Little Tesuque Creek.
How long are the trails at Hyde Memorial State Park?
The park has 4.2 miles of hiking trails, ranging from the easy half-mile Piggyback Trail to the more difficult western section of the Circle Trail, which gains about 1,000 feet in one mile.
Is there a fee to visit Hyde Memorial State Park?
Yes, there’s a small day-use fee for both residents and nonresidents, though New Mexico residents are exempt from October through April.
Can you go camping at Hyde Memorial State Park?
Yes, the park offers camping alongside its picnic and hiking areas. Check current site availability and conditions directly with the park before your visit.