Did you know you can find some of the best mountain biking? Right here in Santa Fe. Thanks to the 300+ miles of mountain biking trails surrounding the city, the International Mountain Bicycling Association recognized Santa Fe as a Silver Level Ride Center in 2014. In fact, there are 37 ride centers around the world, and only 12 of them are Silver. Here are 4 top mountain biking trails in Santa Fe for your next off-road adventure.
#1 – Dale Ball Trails
The Dale Ball Trails System is a 25-mile network of trails in the foothills of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains. One of our favorite routes begins at St. John’s Trailhead for a 9-mile outer loop that winds around the foothills. You’ll experience climbs, single-track, technical sections, and fantastic views. Caution is needed though, as hikers share the trail. You’ll soon see why the Dale Ball Trail System was voted as one of the top ten trails in the US.
#2 – La Tierra Trails
La Tierra Trails is located on Santa Fe’s northwest side and offers 25+ miles of mixed-use trails. The high desert riding features wide, sandy trails and lots of room for beginners to experience trail riding without much technical challenge. This is also the site of the La Tierra Torture race held in late summer each year.
#3 – Winsor National Recreation Trail
Accessible via the parking lot at the top of Artists Road at Ski Santa Fe, The Winsor Trail is well-known as one of the top mountain biking rides in the country! This trail also happens to be our personal favorite for both biking or hiking. This 9-mile downhill trek features a nearly 3,000-foot elevation change with switchbacks, creeks to cross, rocks and tree roots to maneuver, and a lot of technical single track. If you want an exceptional challenge, then start at the bottom and work your way up.
#4 – Rail Trail
The Rail Trail runs parallel to the rail line that passes through Santa Fe. The trail begins paved from the Santa Fe Railyard to Rabbit Road, just outside of town, and then turns to a dirt surface up to Highway 285 near Lamy. Built on former railroad tracks, it travels 17 miles from downtown to Eldorado, east of Santa Fe. This trail is a vital part of the “Santa Fe Metropolitan Transportation Plan” – a city-wide network of quality trails for bicyclists and pedestrians alike.
No matter what experience level you prefer, from adrenaline-pumping technical challenges at a 9,000-foot elevation, to lower, level, trails for enjoying the outdoors on two wheels, Santa Fe has it all. What’s more, if you prefer to ride with others, The Santa Fe Fat Tire Society hosts a variety of group rides throughout the year.
Unique Santa Fe Accommodations
Take advantage of these 4 top mountain biking trails in Santa Fe with an overnight stay in one of the area’s most historically significant buildings. Our Inn of the Turquoise Bear bed and breakfast is located in downtown Santa Fe in a 19th-century rambling adobe estate that was once home to famed poet and essayist, Witter Bynner.
Each morning, you’ll fuel up for the challenging day ahead with a hearty gourmet breakfast. Afterward, return to your spacious and cozy guest room for rest and relaxation. Combine your biking getaway with some hiking as well, and take advantage of our Turquoise Bear Trekking Experience enhancement, which provides necessary supplies for the trails. Book now.
Post Updated: June 27, 2023
