Located in central New Mexico east of Albuquerque, the Manzano Wilderness Study Area encompasses rugged terrain along the Manzano Mountains. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this area sits adjacent to the established Manzano Wilderness within Cibola National Forest and remains under consideration for wilderness designation.
Hiking serves as the primary activity here, with trails traversing pinyon-juniper woodlands at lower elevations and transitioning to ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests higher up. The terrain is steep and rocky in places, requiring sturdy footwear and moderate fitness levels.
Dispersed camping is permitted on BLM land, allowing visitors to establish primitive campsites away from developed areas. No facilities exist within the WSA—pack all water, supplies, and waste accordingly. Access points connect via dirt roads off Highway 337, though road conditions vary seasonally.
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for backcountry exploration, while summer afternoons bring monsoon thunderstorms. Winter brings snow at higher elevations. Check current conditions with the BLM Rio Puerco Field Office before planning your visit.
Explore Nearby
- Manzano Mountains State Park — State Park in New Mexico
- Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in New Mexico
- Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in New Mexico
- Turquoise Trail — Scenic Byway in New Mexico
- Big Spring State Forest Picnic Area — State Park in Pennsylvania
