Pros & cons
PROS
- Significant rock art concentrated on the southernmost chimney adds real cultural interest.
- Option to extend into a shuttle‑assisted traverse with a steady net descent.
CONS
- Unofficial cairns can mislead hikers off the main route in the open desert.
- Absolutely no shade until the rocks; heat radiates off sand and gravel.
Park at the Chimneys Trailhead along Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive (around mile 13).
Full sun exposure with virtually no shade; carry ample water and sun protection. Watch for snakes, and ignore unofficial rock cairns that can lead off-route. No pets on this trail.
Overview
A classic Chihuahuan Desert ramble, the Chimneys Trail runs 4.8 miles round trip (out-and-back) from Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to a striking line of volcanic dike spires. It’s mostly flat with about 400 feet of cumulative gain, rated moderate more for distance and relentless sun than for terrain. Plan on roughly 2.5–3 hours, depending on how long you linger among the rocks and rock art.
What You’ll See
The approach crosses open grasslands and sandy washes with big, uninterrupted views. The “chimneys” themselves are tall, eroded volcanic dikes rising abruptly from the desert floor—great for photos and a fun place to poke around. On the southernmost outcrop, look carefully (and respectfully) for Native American rock art: both petroglyphs (carved) and pictographs (painted), plus bedrock grinding holes that hint at long human presence here.
Trail Experience
Navigation to the spires is straightforward—the formation is visible much of the way and the tread is easy to follow. Shade is virtually nonexistent until you reach the rocks, so this hike feels hotter and more exposed than the stats suggest. Expect sandy stretches, hard-packed desert soil, and some rocky footing near the chimneys if you scramble.
Route Options
Most hikers turn around at the chimneys for the standard 4.8-mile total. If you want a bigger day, the trail continues west to Old Maverick Road for a longer point‑to‑point (about 7.5 miles one way). Hiked from Ross Maxwell toward Old Maverick, it trends steadily downhill. A shuttle and basic desert route‑finding are recommended beyond the main formation.
Best Time to Hike
Prime season is late autumn through early spring when temperatures are reasonable. In warm weather, start at dawn or late afternoon to dodge the worst heat and get softer light on the rock. Summer midday heat is punishing here—skip it unless you’re dialed for desert conditions.
Tips and Essentials
Carry more water than you think you’ll need, plus sun protection (hat, long sleeves, sunglasses, high‑SPF sunscreen). Watch your step for snakes, especially in warmer months. Don’t follow random rock cairns—unofficial stacks can lead you off the main route. Sturdy shoes help if you plan to scramble. No pets are allowed on this trail.
Bottom Line
If geology, wide‑open desert, and cultural history are your thing, this is a rewarding, low‑drama hike. The rock art adds meaning, the chimneys are photogenic, and the solitude is real—just respect the site and come prepared for full exposure.
Elevation
4.8 mi · 2.7 hrWhere it starts
29.2057, -103.4235Wildlife on this trail
Near Chimneys Trail
All places →All trails →
1.8 mi awayBurro Spring TrailQuiet desert walk to a lush spring overlook on Burro MesaEasy · 2 mi · 1 hr
1.8 mi awayGoat Mountain OverlookQuick roadside stop for dramatic volcanic layers and desert viewsExhibit · Pullout
2.2 mi awayLower Burro Mesa Pouroff TrailShort, shady canyon stroll to a dramatic 100-foot dry waterfallEasy · 1 mi · 30 min
2.4 mi awayBurro Mesa Pour-offShort wash hike to a dramatic box canyon pour-offTrailhead · Parking
2.8 mi awayMule Ears Spring TrailDesert stroll to a shady spring beneath the Mule Ears peaksEasy · 3.9 mi · 2 hr
2.8 mi awaySmoky Creek TrailRemote Chihuahuan desert ramble from Mule Ears to deep solitudeModerate · 18.3 mi · 9 hr
2.8 mi awayMule Ears OverlookRoadside sunrise vantage on the twin Mule Ears spiresTrailhead · Pullout
3 mi awaySotol Vista OverlookPanoramic desert-and-canyon view, perfect for sunset and starsRestroom · Parking
