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Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
EasyGround

Tunnel Canyon

Tijeras, New Mexico · Bernalillo County · United States Forest Service · 5145

Manzanita Mountains Trail System

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35.03391, -106.38164
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Tunnel Canyon

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High91°F
Avg Low64°F
Peak Rain Chance12%
Humidity32%
UV (avg)9
Air Quality59 · Moderate
Today
🌧
Rain
91°/66°
💧 3%🌬 26mph
6:17 AM8:05 PM
Wed
☁️
Overcast
93°/65°
💧 2%🌬 17mph
6:18 AM8:04 PM
Thu
☁️
Overcast
92°/68°
💧 6%🌬 18mph
6:18 AM8:03 PM
Fri
🌦
Light Drizzle
92°/63°
💧 12%🌬 18mph
6:19 AM8:02 PM
Sat
🌧
Rain Showers
89°/60°
💧 11%🌬 22mph
6:20 AM8:01 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Tunnel Canyon

Manzanita Mountains Trail System

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
    Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
  • 🩳
    Light shorts/skirt
    Loose-fit, breathable.
  • 🧢
    Wide-brimmed sun hat
    Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
  • 🕶
    Polarized sunglasses
    Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 9)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in New Mexico

Trail conditions in New Mexico change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Tunnel Canyon?

Tunnel Canyon is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Are dogs allowed on Tunnel Canyon?

Yes — dogs are allowed on Tunnel Canyon. Always pack out waste and follow local rules.

Can I ride a bike on Tunnel Canyon?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail (designated bike route).

Are horses allowed on Tunnel Canyon?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted (designated equestrian route).

What is the trail surface on Tunnel Canyon?

The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Tunnel Canyon?

New Mexico has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages Tunnel Canyon?

Tunnel Canyon is managed by United States Forest Service. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.