The best MTB trails in Taos County

Yes, Taos County offers several easy mountain bike trails. For instance, the Mountainbike loop from Upper Slide Trail is an easy 12.2-mile route, and the Mountainbike loop from John Dunn Bridge provides a pleasant 8.4-mile ride near the Rio Grande Gorge. Another easy option is the Mountainbike loop from Upper Slide Trail, which is 5.4 miles long.

Taos County's mountain biking terrain is diverse, ranging from high desert singletrack and river gorge views to mountain forest paths. You'll find trails winding through the Rio Grande Gorge and into pine forests at higher elevations, particularly in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Yes, Taos County also provides challenging options for advanced mountain bikers. The South Boundary Trail (Start) loop from Enchanted Moon Campground is a difficult 22.6-mile trail, and the El Nogal Trailhead loop from PDC @ Weimer is another difficult route spanning 33.5 miles.

While mountain biking in Taos County, you can explore several natural attractions. The Rio Grande Gorge and Bridge View offers stunning vistas. Higher up, you might encounter Williams Lake or even catch a glimpse of Wheeler Peak Summit, the highest point in New Mexico.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Taos County are designed as loops, offering a continuous ride back to your starting point. Examples include the Mountainbike loop from Upper Slide Trail, the Mountainbike loop from John Dunn Bridge, and the more challenging South Boundary Trail (Start) loop from Enchanted Moon Campground.

The trails in Taos County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from high desert singletrack to scenic river gorge views and challenging mountain ascents.

The best season for mountain biking in Taos County generally spans from late spring through early fall. Summer offers pleasant conditions in the higher elevations, while spring and fall are ideal for exploring the lower desert and gorge trails, avoiding extreme heat or snow.

While specific crowd levels can vary, exploring trails during weekdays or earlier in the morning can often lead to a more solitary experience. The vastness of the region, particularly in the national forests and BLM lands, also offers opportunities to find quieter routes away from the most popular spots.

Most mountain biking trails in Taos County, particularly those on public lands managed by the Forest Service or BLM, do not require specific permits for day use. However, it's always advisable to check with the local land management agency for any specific regulations or temporary closures before your ride.

For the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, including closures due to weather, maintenance, or fire restrictions, it's best to consult local resources. Check with the Carson National Forest website, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Taos Field Office, or local bike shops in Taos for current reports.

Many trails on public lands in Taos County, including those in the Carson National Forest and BLM areas, generally allow dogs, often requiring them to be on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, as rules can vary, especially in wilderness areas or protected natural monuments.

Parking is typically available at designated trailheads throughout Taos County. For popular routes like those near the Rio Grande Gorge or in the national forest, you'll usually find established parking areas. It's always a good idea to arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.