Backpacker Magazine called Mills Canyon in North Eastern New Mexico a "hidden jewel" that featured "abundant wildlife."  I was there for two days and it's still hidden from me... :)

Mills Canyon Campsite

After the two days we then left and spent the rest of the weekend at Hermit Peak in North Central New Mexico (near Las Vegas, NM).  We were short on time so we only hiked a short distance into the valley, but here are some photo shots from around our campsite.

             <- My current desktop wallpaper

             <- Too lazy to carry my tripod!

    <- So close to camp, so many pictures of this waterfall...the valley trail follows a creek, there were tons of small waterfalls in the creek, along with a lot of water crossings (knee deep at most).  Very scenic.  The valley is fairly narrow for the first half then opens up wider the farther up you go until you reach the top of the valley where it is surrounded by hills.  We didn't hike up Hermit peak itself this trip but I've done that in the past.  It's about a 2,220 foot elevation gain over four miles, with most of that gain in the last two miles.  Although it is a steep climb, there is a spring up on top and nice views so it makes a nice short backpack.  It is located in the Santa Fe National Forest, just Northwest of Las Vegas,  New Mexico.  For info on the campground, check out El Porvenir Canyon. Creek, campground, Hermit's Peak nearby. 17 miles northwest on N.M. 65 past Montezuma. (505) 425-3534. Or use this link to the Forest Service.