The best cycling routes around Sunlit Hills
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Touring cycling around Sunlit Hills, an unincorporated community in Santa Fe County, New Mexico, offers diverse routes through its serene landscapes. The area is characterized by a rural setting with rolling hills and expansive vistas of the surrounding desert and mountains. Nestled in the foothills of southern Santa Fe, it provides access to routes that traverse varied topography.
Best touring cycling routes around Sunlit Hills
- The most popular touring cycling route is Sphinx Overlook – Santa Fe Rail Trail loop…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
5.0
(1)
15
riders
34.8km
02:28
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
19.5km
01:50
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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11
riders
25.4km
01:31
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
22.6km
01:30
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
riders
22.2km
01:57
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. 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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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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Today the chapel is a wedding venue and museum, which you can visit for $5. It features a highly unique spiral staircase, which was built without a center pole such that the weight of all the stairs rests on the base step, and the staircase springs up and down like an accordion when faced with heavy vibrations. For the first ten years, it didn't even have a railing.
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The Basilica was built in the late 1800s by Archbishop Jean Baptiste Lamy, 26 years before New Mexico even became a U.S. state. However the site is much older than that, as the current structure is built on the foundations of earlier churches dating all the way back to 1626.
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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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This museum preserves and honors the legacy of one of the most significant artists of the 20th century, Georgia O'Keeffe. The museum includes work and personal items of Georgia O'Keeffe and rotates throughout the year.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Sunlit Hills?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Sunlit Hills, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Sunlit Hills?
Touring cycling routes in Sunlit Hills feature a diverse landscape of rolling hills, high desert terrain, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and desert. You'll experience a mix of rural settings with varied topography, characteristic of the New Mexico foothills.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Sunlit Hills offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Rail Trail Parking is an excellent choice, covering about 12 miles (19.5 km) with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed ride.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?
While cycling around Sunlit Hills, you're close to Santa Fe's rich cultural and historical sites. Along or near some routes, you might encounter highlights such as The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, the New Mexico Museum of Art, or the historic Palace of the Governors. The Santa Fe Rail Trail itself is a popular feature.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many routes in Sunlit Hills are designed as loops. A popular option is the Sphinx Overlook – Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from South Capitol, which is a longer ride at 32.8 miles (52.8 km) and offers scenic views.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Sunlit Hills?
Given the 'sunlit' aspect of the region, clear skies and ample sunshine are common. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for cycling, avoiding the peak heat of summer and potential colder conditions in winter. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any routes that combine natural scenery with urban exploration?
Absolutely. The Santa Fe Rail Trail – Old Santa Fe loop from La Loma Post Office is a great example. This route connects the natural beauty of the Santa Fe Rail Trail with the historic charm of Old Santa Fe, allowing you to experience both the serene landscapes and the city's unique atmosphere.
Where can I park my car when accessing touring cycling routes in Sunlit Hills?
Many routes, especially those utilizing the Santa Fe Rail Trail, have designated parking areas. For example, the Santa Fe River Trail – Frenchy's Falls loop starts from Rail Trail Parking, indicating convenient access points for cyclists arriving by car.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, the Sphinx Overlook – Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from South Capitol is a substantial ride at nearly 33 miles (53 km) with moderate elevation changes, offering a rewarding experience for more experienced touring cyclists.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Sunlit Hills?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Sunlit Hills, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to desert vistas, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels. The proximity to Santa Fe's attractions is also a frequently appreciated aspect.
Can I access these cycling routes using public transport?
Sunlit Hills is located just 7 miles (10 minutes by car) from Santa Fe. While direct public transport to specific trailheads within Sunlit Hills might be limited, Santa Fe itself has public transport options that could get you closer to the general area or to trailheads within the city, such as those along the Santa Fe Rail Trail.
Are there any routes that offer riverside paths or natural water features?
Yes, the Santa Fe River Trail – Frenchy's Falls loop from Rail Trail Parking offers a mix of riverside paths and natural scenery, providing a refreshing change of pace and beautiful views along the water.
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