FS 429

Just over an hour west of Albuquerque, New Mexico, FS 429 is a short but beautiful trail in the Zuni Mountains that is somewhat off the beaten path. The tall ponderosa pines surrounding this quiet and secluded trail in Limekiln Canyon make for the perfect area to camp, picnic, and explore with the entire family. The San Mateo and Zuni Mountains make up the Mt. Taylor Ranger District, which has approximately 520,000 acres of diverse forest lands, including Mt. Taylor, an extinct volcano considered sacred to Native Americans. The Zuni Mountains have a diverse history that includes railroad logging and sheep herding. Many of the trails in this area were originally used for railroad logging operations in the late 1800s and early 1900s during steam railroading's heyday. There are many antiquities in the area, including old homesteads, mining camps, logging camps, and vast volcanic features.

Excellent dispersed camping is allowed along both sides of FR 429 within 300 feet of the road's centerline​ , as indicated on the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for the Mount Taylor Ranger District (505-287-8833). Note that this is an unimproved area, so please, tread lightly. A shovel and axe are required in order to have a campfire in unimproved areas of the Zuni Mountains. Please observe all fire restrictions.