The Cave Creek trail starts at the Panchuela Campground in the Santa Fe National Forest at an elevation of 8350 feet. It crosses a bridge over Panchuela Creek, which had lots of swift-running water due to late season monsoon rains, and climbs uphill until entering the Pecos Wilderness.

It goes through wonderful forests of large blue spruce, Douglas and white fir, and aspens, with some expansive views of densely forested mountain slopes. There are a number of areas of moss and lichen-covered rocks and other vegetation.

The trail crosses Panchuela Creek after about two miles, on fallen logs, and continues along Cave Creek, which is named after limestone caves, located about a mile after the crossing. It is a magical spot, with tall trees, jays and other birds, and one branch of the creek goes into the caves and runs underground for about 1/3 mile. It is a magical spot, with tall trees, jays and other birds, and one branch of the creek goes into the caves and runs underground for about 1/3 mile.

The weather was quite chilly when we set out, requiring thermal tops and long pants, but the effort expended kept us warm. By the time we reached the caves, we broke out tee shirts.

It was a magnificent experience to be amidst the tall trees, and we had the entire forest to ourselves until the return part of the hike, and then we only saw two other people. The nature energies were amazing all the way, but especially at the caves and along the creeks.