The best MTB trails around Arroyo Hondo
4.7
(10)
202
riders
22
rides
Mountain biking around Arroyo Hondo features a network of trails across varied terrain, characterized by diverse landscapes including canyons, riparian woodlands, and open grasslands. Riders can expect hard-packed surfaces often sprinkled with gravel, with many singletrack sections featuring rocks. The region's geography supports both leisurely rides and more challenging mountain bike adventures through areas with piñon and juniper trees.
Best mountain bike trails around Arroyo Hondo
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Outer Dale Ball Trails loop, a…
Last updated: October 11, 2026
3.0
(1)
2
riders
8.43km
01:43
450m
450m
The Atalaya Mountain trail offers a true high-desert mountain biking experience, winding through scrub and shady ponderosa forests before opening up to spectacular panoramic views of Santa Fe. Expect a…
5.0
(4)
42
riders
27.7km
02:20
340m
340m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
48.2km
04:06
500m
500m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
16
riders
32.9km
04:22
660m
660m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(2)
12
riders
55.4km
04:57
1,280m
1,280m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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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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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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Atalaya Trail is a steep challenging trail up to Atalaya Mountain. Despite its difficulty, it's a popular challenge among local mountain bikers and a great way to get some serious exercise and some great views in close to town. It features tight turns, narrow, rocky singletrack, and steep grades, all between 7,000 and 8,000 feet! If done in the winter or early spring, there can also be ice at spots. While it can be ridden up or downhill be aware of hikers - this is a popular trail to get to the summit of the mountains.
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The Calabasas Trail is a nice flowing trail from Tano road down to the Calabasas trailhead in the northern part of the La Tierra trails. If riding east to west, it is generally downhill, but it can be ridden in both directions. There are many, many trails you can turn onto along this trail, enabling you to make loops of almost any length in this fun area.
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The North Boundary #1 #2 trail is the northernmost trail in the La Tierra trail network and most consider it to be one of the best, if not the best, XC trail in the area. From this popular section of trail you get fantastic views and great riding over swoopy, burmed switchbacks. Headed west from #1 it is mostly downhill, but headed east from #2-#1, you'll encounter some of the toughest climbing in the system.
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Dale Ball Trail #2-#3 are some of the northernmost trails in the excellent Dale Ball Trails just east of Santa Fe. This section can be access via the Sierra del Norte Trailhead, or you can ride up on the other Dale Ball Trails from two other parking areas and Trailheads along Cerro Gordo Road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy mountain bike trails in Arroyo Hondo suitable for beginners?
Yes, Arroyo Hondo offers several trails suitable for beginners. There are 2 easy routes available, providing a gentle introduction to mountain biking in the area. These trails typically feature less challenging terrain and elevation changes.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Arroyo Hondo?
The best time for mountain biking in Arroyo Hondo is generally during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the potential for snow and colder temperatures in winter. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Are there any mountain bike trails in Arroyo Hondo that are loop routes?
Yes, many mountain bike trails in Arroyo Hondo are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Outer Dale Ball Trails loop is a popular moderate option, and the La Tierra Trails – Calabasas Trail loop from Santa Fe also provides a great loop experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Arroyo Hondo?
Mountain bike trails around Arroyo Hondo feature varied terrain, including established trail systems, local hills, and open landscapes. Riders can expect a mix of dirt paths, some rocky sections, and ascents that lead to higher elevations, offering diverse riding experiences.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Arroyo Hondo?
The mountain biking routes in Arroyo Hondo are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 130 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the varied terrain and the network of trails that cater to different ability levels.
Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders in Arroyo Hondo?
Yes, Arroyo Hondo offers several challenging trails for experienced mountain bikers. For instance, the Atalaya Mountain trail is rated as difficult, featuring significant climbs and rewarding panoramic views, perfect for those seeking a more intense ride.
Can I find long-distance mountain bike trails in Arroyo Hondo?
Arroyo Hondo features several longer mountain bike routes. The La Tierra Trails – Calabasas Trail loop from Santa Fe covers 14.2 miles (22.8 km), and the Old Santa Fe Trail – Old Santa Fe loop from Santa Fe Depot is even longer at 14.4 miles (23.1 km), offering extended riding opportunities.
What attractions or landmarks can I see near the mountain bike trails in Arroyo Hondo?
While riding near Arroyo Hondo, you can explore several notable attractions. These include historical sites like the Old Santa Fe Trail and the Palace of the Governors. You might also visit cultural sites such as the The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi or the New Mexico Museum of Art.
How many mountain bike trails are there in Arroyo Hondo?
There are 14 mountain bike trails available around Arroyo Hondo. These routes vary in difficulty, with 2 easy, 7 moderate, and 5 difficult options to choose from.
Are there any specific trailheads to be aware of for mountain biking in Arroyo Hondo?
Yes, several trails start from established trailheads. For example, the Dale Ball Trail (#24) loop begins from the Cerro Gordo Trailhead, which is a common access point for the Dale Ball Trail system.
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