The best running trails in Santa Fe County
3.6
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503
runners
80
runs
Jogging routes in Santa Fe County traverse a diverse landscape characterized by high-desert terrain, mountainous backdrops, and extensive forest areas. The region features the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering challenging climbs and panoramic views, alongside the vast Santa Fe National Forest with its ponderosa pine and juniper woodlands. Within city limits, a network of arroyos and multi-use paths provides urban trail running opportunities that transition into natural settings. This varied topography, combined with an elevation of around 7,000 feet, presents a range of experiences for runners.
Best jogging routes in Santa Fe County
- The most popular jogging route is Tsankawi Trail, an easy 1.8 miles (2.9 km) trail that takes about 22 minutes to complete. This route allows runners to explore ancient Pueblo history and offers panoramic views.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Santa Fe Plaza loop from Santa Fe, a moderate 6.5 miles (10.4 km) path. This route winds through the historic Santa Fe Plaza and city parks, offering an urban running experience.
- Local runners also love the Atalaya Mountain Trailhead loop from St. John's College, a 4.6 miles (7.4 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain with significant elevation gains, often completed in about 1 hour 2 minutes.
- Jogging in Santa Fe County is defined by high-desert mesas, mountain trails in the Sangre de Cristo range, and urban arroyo paths. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Santa Fe County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 500 runners have used komoot to explore Santa Fe County's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
2
runners
2.89km
00:22
50m
50m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
23
runners
8.46km
00:54
90m
90m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
20
runners
10.4km
01:07
120m
120m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
runners
5.52km
00:34
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
11
runners
8.89km
00:56
110m
110m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
runners
6.64km
00:41
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
runners
7.94km
00:50
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
runners
7.38km
01:02
280m
280m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
9
runners
6.57km
00:54
240m
240m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
14
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Santa Fe Plaza stands as the historic and cultural heart of Santa Fe. Founded in 1610, it’s one of the oldest continuously occupied public spaces in the United States. The Plaza was originally designed as the central square for the Spanish colonial Presidio, surrounded by residences, a chapel, and the seat of government. Over the centuries it evolved — welcoming trade caravans arriving along the historic Santa Fe Trail, serving as a gathering place for Indigenous, Spanish, Mexican, and later American communities, hosting centuries of civic, social, and cultural life. Today, the Plaza remains a lively public square ringed by adobe-style buildings, galleries, boutiques, and museums — including the Palace of the Governors, the oldest continuously occupied public building in the U.S. The plaza is also the official starting point for the Santa Fe to Taos thru-hike.
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Stretching from Franklin, Missouri, to Santa Fe, the Old Santa Fe Trail was once a key 19th-century trade route linking the American frontier with Mexico. Its final miles descend into modern-day Santa Fe, where ruts and landmarks still echo its storied past. Following this historic path north offers a rare sense of continuity between New Mexico’s present-day wilderness and its frontier origins.
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You get uninterrupted views across the red earth from the packed dirt path. Here the Santa Fe Rail Trail meets the Spur Trail.
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Old Santa Fe is the historic downtown area. It's known for its mix of Naive Pueblo and Spanish Colonial styles of architecture and is an excellent mix of culture, history, shops, and views. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Old Santa Fe is the historic downtown area. It's known for its mix of Naive Pueblo and Spanish Colonial styles of architecture and is an excellent mix of culture, history, shops, and views. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Santa Fe is New Mexico's state capital and sits at almost 7,200 feet. The town is known for its' Pueblo-style architecture and its creative arts community. It's also one of the oldest cities in the USA, being founded in the early 1600's.
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The trail passes by large panels of petroglyphs (carved pictures), that are thought to be hundreds of years old. Although their exact meaning is unknown, they are most likely not a type of written language, but rather held deep spiritual and artistic significance to ancient (and modern) indigenous people. There are many petroglyphs in this area, so be sure to take your time to try to find all of them - many of them blend in with their surroundings! Like in most archeological sites, please do not touch these ancient carvings.
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The cavetes are located just below the ancient central village plaza in the cliff bands that make up the mesa. These cavates (human excavated cavities) were places where people could take shelter from the elements; the thick stone walls provided insulation from both the cold of winter and heat of summer. Talus pueblos were also most-likely constructed in front of the entrance to the cavates to further protect people from wind, rain, snow, and perhaps most importantly in the desert, heat. Please only enter cavetes that are immediately adjacent to the trail - the other cavets are dangerous to access.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Santa Fe County?
Santa Fe County offers a wide variety of running routes, with over 80 options available on komoot. These routes cater to all levels, from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents, ensuring there's something for every jogger.
What kind of terrain can I expect on jogging routes in Santa Fe County?
Joggers in Santa Fe County can experience a diverse range of terrain. You'll find high-desert landscapes with mesa views, mountainous trails in the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, extensive forest paths within the Santa Fe National Forest, and urban trail running opportunities along arroyos and multi-use paths like the Santa Fe River Trail. The region's 7,000-foot elevation also adds a unique dimension to the running experience.
Are there easy running routes for beginners in Santa Fe County?
Yes, Santa Fe County has several easy running routes perfect for beginners. One excellent option is the Tsankawi Trail, an easy 1.8-mile path that allows you to explore ancient Pueblo history while enjoying panoramic views. There are 5 easy routes listed in total, offering gentle gradients and accessible surfaces.
Are there challenging running routes for experienced joggers in Santa Fe County?
For experienced runners seeking a challenge, Santa Fe County offers 35 difficult routes. The Atalaya Mountain Trailhead loop from St. John's College is a popular choice, featuring significant elevation gains as it leads through mountainous terrain. Other challenging options can be found in the Dale Ball Trails network and around Picacho Peaks.
What are some scenic jogging routes with viewpoints in Santa Fe County?
Many running routes in Santa Fe County offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains provide dramatic backdrops, and trails like the Tsankawi Trail offer panoramic vistas. For urban views, the Santa Fe Plaza loop from Santa Fe winds through historic areas and parks, showcasing the city's charm.
Can I find jogging routes that pass by historical sites or landmarks?
Absolutely. Santa Fe County is rich in history. The Tsankawi Trail allows you to explore ancient Pueblo history and petroglyphs. Within the city, routes like the Santa Fe Plaza – Loretto Chapel Museum loop from Santa Fe pass by significant landmarks such as the Palace of the Governors and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.
Are there any circular running routes in Santa Fe County?
Yes, many running routes in Santa Fe County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Santa Fe Plaza loop from Santa Fe and the Atalaya Mountain Trailhead loop from St. John's College. These circular paths are great for exploring without needing to retrace your steps.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Santa Fe County?
Santa Fe County boasts over 320 days of sunshine annually, making it an excellent destination for jogging year-round. While the high altitude (around 7,000 feet) can be challenging, the mild climate generally allows for comfortable running. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures, though summer mornings and winter days can also be ideal.
Are there running routes with good parking access in Santa Fe County?
Many running routes in Santa Fe County offer convenient parking. For instance, the Running loop from Rail Trail Parking explicitly highlights its accessibility. Urban trails like those around the Santa Fe Plaza often have nearby public parking options, and state parks like Hyde Memorial State Park also provide designated parking for trail access.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Santa Fe County?
The running routes in Santa Fe County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 5 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from high-desert mesas to mountain trails, and the extensive network of paths that cater to various abilities. The opportunity to combine outdoor activity with historical exploration, such as on the Tsankawi Trail, is also a frequently highlighted aspect.
Are there any running routes that follow a river or have water features?
Yes, the Santa Fe River Trail is a prominent multi-use path that follows the Santa Fe River through downtown parks, offering a scenic and relatively flat running experience. Routes like the Frenchy's Falls – Santa Fe River Trail loop from Santa Fe Indian School incorporate sections along the river, providing pleasant views and the sound of flowing water.
Are there options for long-distance running in Santa Fe County?
Santa Fe County offers several options for longer runs. The Santa Fe Rail-Trail, for example, extends for nearly 17 miles, providing a continuous path for extended workouts. Additionally, the extensive Dale Ball Trails network offers a 22-mile system of interconnected mountain trails, allowing runners to combine sections for significant distances and elevation changes.
Most popular routes in Santa Fe County
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