Summer and fall the road is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding, but is also open to motorcycles. Expect to see motorized traffic. When it is closed for the winter it is a quiet place to cross-country ski or snowshoe. source: fs.usda.gov
From Taos - Follow US Highway 64 to Forest Road 10 (Capulin Canyon), just west of Shady Brook. Drive 1.9 miles to Forest Road 10AA. You may want to park here, as parking and turnaround opportunities are limited at the trailhead. The 494 trailhead is 0.7 miles up Forest Road 10AA. Forest Road 10AA west of the trailhead is closed to motorized travel, as are any old roads off of Trail #494.
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