Atoja a Chupadero

The convoluted badlands of the Quebradas near Socorro, New Mexico are home to many spectacular geologic exposures. The serenity and beauty of the high mountain desert await those who venture onto the many 4WD trails on these public lands, Atoja a Chupadero being one of them. The trail is short but very scenic, as is the route to get there, and this route will take you well off the beaten path and into the heart of the Quebradas. Traversing the trail - a narrow, rocky wash - is both fun and challenging as it winds through sand, boulders, and rock pavements. Two large juniper trees along the trail provide great spots to take a break or have lunch. Atoja a Chupadero is a more challenging way to get from Upper Amado Canyon to Minas Del Chupadero than remaining on the Upper Amado Canyon trail would be, and it connects at the end of the Chupadero Mine road, which is the northern border of the Presilla Wilderness observation area.