Sadhya Did you know there’s a hidden waterfall in New Mexico that even many locals have never seen? Bridal Veil Falls, tucked away in the Sacramento Mountains, is a peaceful escape—but it’s not as easy to find as you might think.
Bridal Veil Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall near High Rolls, New Mexico. It’s not a massive, roaring cascade, but it offers a quiet, scenic hike that makes it worth the trip.
There is no direct access to the fall but there is a small parking area nearby and then you can hike the trails. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and is rated as moderate, so it’s perfect for a day hike.
On a warm and sunny afternoon, the bridal veil falls were cooling and beautiful. Seeing the waterfall in the midst of the desert landscape was truly amazing.
I couldn’t help but admire the way the water cascaded down the red rock wall, creating the illusion of a delicate bridal veil. The layers of sediment were clearly visible here, resembling thin slabs of brick.
Where is Bridal Veil Falls?
Bridal Veil Falls is located in the Lincoln National Forest, near the small town of High Rolls, New Mexico. There’s no exact street address, but the trailhead is accessible via Fresnal Canyon Road.
How to Get There
If you’re coming from Alamogordo:
- Take US Highway 82 and drive about 10 miles toward High Rolls.
- Turn onto Cherry Blossom Lane and follow it to Cottage Row.
- Continue onto Fresnal Canyon Road (Forest Road 162C) for about 0.9 miles.
- Look for the small parking area on the left.
You can find more details about the parking area here.
What to Expect on the Hike
- Distance: About 2.3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate – mostly flat, but some loose rocks
- Elevation Gain: 232 feet – not too steep, but a steady incline in some spots
- Time Needed: Around 1 hour total
The trail itself is actually an old railroad bed that once carried logs down the mountains. It’s a wide, well-marked path, making it great for beginners, families, and even leashed dogs.
From where we parked it was about a 1 1/2-mile moderate hike to the falls. Be alert and watch out for rattlesnakes while you make your way to the bottom of the trail. It is not a paved path.
As we make our way through the trail, we’re surrounded by the beautiful landscape. The trail is well-maintained, and there are informative signs along the way.
The Waterfall
Here’s the thing: Bridal Veil Falls is seasonal. If you visit during dry months, you might see just a small trickle of water. But after rainfall or snowmelt, the falls become more impressive. If you’re expecting a giant waterfall, you might be disappointed—but if you go for the hike and scenery, it’s worth it.
There wasn’t a lot of water flow due to the heat in New Mexico but it was truly rare to come across a spring like this, especially at such high elevations. Next to the falls, there are a few abandoned buildings in the area.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
- Spring (March – May): Best time! More water flowing, pleasant temperatures.
- Summer (June – August): Hot and dry. Bring extra water.
- Fall (September – November): Cooler temps, but water flow may be low.
- Winter (December – February): Can be icy or muddy. Fewer hikers, though!
Best tip? Go after recent rainfall for the best waterfall experience.
What to Bring
Even though it’s a short hike, being prepared makes the trip more enjoyable.
- Hiking Shoes – Some loose rocks make sturdy shoes a must.
- Water – No water sources along the trail, so bring your own.
- Sun Protection – The trail is mostly open with little shade. Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended.
- Snacks – Always a good idea for energy.
- Offline Map – Since cell service is unreliable, download your map in advance.
Surprising Facts About Bridal Veil Falls
- It’s not as well-known as other New Mexico waterfalls. Many people drive past it without realizing it’s there!
- The trail follows an old logging railroad. You can still see traces of the tracks in some places.
- The water flow changes drastically. Some visitors arrive expecting a roaring waterfall but find just a trickle. Timing is everything!
So, is Bridal Veil Falls worth the visit? If you love peaceful hikes, beautiful scenery, and a bit of adventure, absolutely! Just don’t expect a massive waterfall—this spot is more about the journey than the destination.
If you are in the area it is worth checking it out. The waterfall cascades gracefully down the cliffside, resembling a delicate bridal veil was nice to see in the midst of the desert landscape.
Hiking Tips
Engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking can pose risks, so it’s important to take responsibility and prepare thoroughly for your trip. Before you head out, research the area you’ll be entering and plan accordingly. Dress appropriately for both anticipated and unforeseen weather changes, and bring plenty of water. It’s also crucial to never hike alone. Create a detailed itinerary outlining your plans, route, destination, and expected return time, and share it with trusted family and friends. Stay safe out there!
