Ultimate Guide to Mountain Biking in Santa Fe County: Top Trails and Adventures
While hikers and skiers have long cherished the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Santa Fe's stunning landscapes, mountain biking has exploded in popularity in recent years. Santa Fe County now attracts cyclists from across the U.S. for its thrilling high-altitude trails and breathtaking vistas. Road cyclists also converge here to explore scenic byways and join the annual Santa Fe Century ride. Biking thrives in Santa Fe County—so much so that USA Today ranked it among America's Top Mountain Bike Towns.
Whether you're a seasoned rider conquering peaks or a family seeking fun on the trails, Santa Fe County offers diverse terrain for every skill level. Local bike shops provide rentals for mountain and road bikes in all sizes and ages if you don't bring your own.
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Top Three Biking Trails in Santa Fe County
For over 30 years, the Santa Fe Century has been a premier choice for endurance cyclists. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
Mountain bikers have access to vast terrain throughout Santa Fe County. Discover the top three must-ride trails:
Dale Ball Trails
The Dale Ball Trails offer single-track mountain biking in Santa Fe. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
Explore nearly 25 miles of high-altitude trails winding through the Sangre de Cristo Mountain foothills on the Dale Ball Trails. This interconnected network passes through juniper forests, dry creek beds with Zen-like rock gardens, and delivers panoramic views. Favored by hikers, snowshoers, and mountain bikers, it spans Santa Fe County, the City of Santa Fe, and Santa Fe National Forest. Start at the Hyde Park Road and Sierra del Norte parking lot. Trail maps and an advanced wayfinding system are available.
The Dale Ball Trail system spans 24 miles in the Sangre de Cristo foothills. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
Santa Fe Rail Trail
The Rail Trail is a beloved community path for outdoor recreation. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
The 15-mile Santa Fe Rail Trail offers a journey through railroad history amid beautiful countryside. Paralleling the historic railway from Lamy (the nearest Amtrak stop) to the Santa Fe Railyard, it's paved for the first 3.5 miles from downtown to Rabbit Road—ideal for commuters, hikers, and runners. Beyond Rabbit Road, it shifts to dirt with gentle hills, juniper and piñon trees, and sweeping views. Suitable for all levels and family-friendly, it's challenging yet accessible.
The Santa Fe Rail Trail is perfect for kids and families. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
La Tierra Trails
Northwest of Santa Fe, the expansive La Tierra Trails system covers over 25 miles for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. This network of single- and double-track trails showcases prime biking terrain with open views. Riders of all levels enjoy the rolling paths and fast single-tracks, while technical parks offer jumps and freeride features. Begin with the 10-mile loop from La Cuchara Trailhead parking area to experience the full system and uncover more routes.
Launch your Santa Fe biking adventure and feel like a champion! (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe County)
Santa Fe's Vibrant Biking Culture
Armed with this guide to Santa Fe's dynamic mountain biking scene, you're ready to hit the trails. Download the Santa Fe City Trail Map for seamless navigation. Beyond biking, savor world-class New Mexican cuisine and craft beers. Explore [blog_link url="https://santafe.org/Visiting_Santa_Fe/Specials/index.html" text="Deals and Specials" date="2018-03-20"] and order your [blog_link url="https://santafe.org/Visitors_Guide/index.html" text="Santa Fe Travel Guide" date="2018-03-20"].
