Hiking Trails at the Randall Davey Audubon Center

There are two major trails on the Randall Davey Audubon Center property: El Temporal Trail and Bear Canyon Trail.

El Temporal is a half-mile loop trail through piñon/juniper habitat. After a short initial climb up to the acequia, it is relatively level throughout. El Temporal means “dry farm,” tilled land in an arid region without benefit of irrigation and entirely dependent upon seasonal rains. Despite its name this trail can be icy in the winter and muddy in the spring, so wear proper footwear.

Bear Canyon is a side canyon of the Santa Fe River Canyon. You are able to hike up this lovely canyon about a mile and a half before the walls become too steep to climb, and then you must turned around and retrace your steps. This trail is accessible by following the El Temporal trail around to the wooden bench and then following the side trail off to the east.

The ecosystems of the Randall Davey Audubon Center are very fragile! Please obey the following rules that are designed to protect the land, the wildlife, and the visitors:

• No Pets: We may love dogs, but wildlife do not. This sanctuary is home to black bear, coyote, gray fox, and many smaller animals. Domestic animals disturb the area by leaving their scent, chasing animals, and barking. An alternative place to hike with dogs is the nearby Atalaya Trail at St. John’s College, a popular pet walking spot.
• Stay on the Trail: These ecosystems are very susceptible to erosion. When even one person steps off trail it is obvious and then other people follow. For this same reason, bikes and cross-country skiing are not allowed.
• Smoke Only in your Car: This forest hasn’t burned in more than a decade and one spark could ignite the forest.
• Collecting Is Not Allowed: This sanctuary is a safe haven for all living and non-living things.