Getting Oriented
The Manzano Mountains form the southern continuation of the Sandia range, running north-south for roughly 30 miles between Albuquerque and Mountainair. Capilla Peak sits near the central spine of the range. Cibola National Forest's Mountainair Ranger District (505-847-2990) manages the road and the campground. The east-side access from Manzano village is the standard route; the west side has no equivalent vehicle approach.
Trail Overview
FR 245 runs 12 miles from NM 55 in Manzano village to the campground and observatory site at 9,200 feet. The road climbs roughly 2,700 feet across that distance, gaining elevation through pinyon-juniper into ponderosa pine and aspen. Surface is gravel and dirt with stacked switchbacks on the steepest climb. The road is one-lane in most stretches, with sparse pull-outs at the corners that double as passing zones. The grade and surface make 4WD useful in wet conditions, but a high-clearance 2WD manages the climb in dry weather.
The road is open year-round in principle but the Forest Service closes it during wet periods to keep heavy traffic from cutting deep ruts. Snow holds in the upper sections from December through March.
Points of Interest
- Capilla Peak Observatory. An abandoned astronomical observatory operated by the University of New Mexico from 1962 to the 1970s. The dome remains visible at the summit.
- Capilla Peak Campground. Eight USFS sites at 9,200 feet, open April through November, no reservations. Vault toilets, no water, no large RVs (no parking spurs).
- Capilla Peak Lookout. A fire lookout near the campground, used historically and still standing.
- Gavilan Trail. A foot trail that traverses the ridge above the campground, with views into the Manzano Wilderness.
- Manzano Mountains State Park. South of the road's lower end, with developed camping and a small lake.
Where to Camp
Capilla Peak Campground anchors the upper end of the road with eight first-come, first-served sites and vault toilets. Manzano Mountains State Park, south on NM 55, has a developed campground with hookups and a fishing pond. Dispersed camping is allowed on Cibola NF land along FR 245 with the standard 14-day stay limit.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Check road status before driving. The Mountainair Ranger District (505-847-2990) closes the road during wet conditions to protect the surface.
- The road is one-lane. Use the corners as passing zones and yield to descending vehicles.
- No water at the campground. Carry sufficient drinking water.
- The campground is not suited for large RVs or trailers. There are no parking spurs and turnaround room is limited.
- Snow holds in the upper sections December through March. The campground is closed for the winter.
- Lightning risk in summer afternoons. The ridge is exposed.
