Easy hikes and walks around Santa Fe Foothills
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Easy hiking trails around Santa Fe Foothills traverse a landscape characterized by high-desert terrain and piñon-juniper woodlands. The region sits at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering trails with panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley. Hikers can experience varied ecosystems, from fragrant forests to areas with diverse flora and fauna. The elevation of around 7,000 feet provides distinct mountain and city views.
Best easy hiking trails around Santa Fe Foothills
- The most popular easy hiking route…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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hikers
4.41km
01:26
70m
410m
The Atalaya Trail (170) offers a delightful, easy hike right on Santa Fe's doorstep, perfect for a quick nature fix. This 2.7-mile (4.4 km) route, with a gentle 226 feet…
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hikers
2.34km
00:44
150m
0m
The Saint John's Trail (174) offers a delightful, quick immersion into Santa Fe's high desert landscape, winding through aromatic piñon and juniper forests. You'll navigate the unique terrain, including descents…
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4.6
(5)
50
hikers
2.63km
00:56
160m
160m
If you're seeking a quick, intense climb with big rewards, the Sun Mountain Trail in Santa Fe, New Mexico, delivers. This 1.6-mile (2.6 km) hike, despite its official easy rating,…
3.3
(3)
18
hikers
3.10km
00:52
60m
60m
The Dorothy Stewart Trail offers a delightful blend of desert and forested landscapes just outside Santa Fe. This easy 1.9-mile (3.1 km) loop takes you through pine trees, juniper, and…
5.0
(1)
17
hikers
3.93km
01:06
80m
80m
The Santa Fe County Arroyo Hondo Open Space Trail offers a delightful escape into New Mexico's high desert, just a short drive from Santa Fe. This easy hiking route guides…
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Tips from the Community
This open space area features panoramic views, local plant life and seasonal streams and wetlands. It is an easily accessible venture into nature with rewarding sights!
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The Dorothy Stewart Trail is a short loop just below Picacho Peak. It offers great views of the city of Santa Fe while you are hiking in a nice desert landscape with blooming cacti, pine trees and juniper.
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With 9,121 feet, Atalaya Mountain is one of the highest peaks around the city of Santa Fe. It is part of the Sangre de Cristo Range. Up here, you will be treated with a stunning view towards Santa Fe, Sun Mountain, Picacho Peak and Thompson Peak.
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The hike to the summit of Sun Mountain is great for a stroll, no matter if you are out on the weekend or looking for a short hike in the afternoon. Sun Mountain offers a beautiful view over Santa Fe and its surroundings.
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This is the southernmost trail head for the Dale Ball Trail system. The trail starts near St. John's College (there is parking specifically for the trail). Very easy access from downtown Santa Fe. Can't speak to public transportation, as walked to trail head (road has only occasional sidewalks, just fyi), but I did pass a couple of bus stops. Trail is well-marked, especially at the numbered junctions (at which there are also topography maps of the trails). There are also a number of trail heads and interlacing trails, so hikes or bike rides can be shorter or longer depending on what you want, even while out on the hills. On maps, this trail is called "St. John's Trail", but physical markers use the name "Atalaya Trail"; either way, you will follow markers for Trail 174. Lovely hike, with views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and back across Santa Fe. Website: https://sfct.org/dale-ball-trails/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there in the Santa Fe Foothills?
The Santa Fe Foothills offer a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 35 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 65 hiking trails available in the region, catering to various fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in the Santa Fe Foothills?
Easy hikes in the Santa Fe Foothills primarily traverse high-desert terrain and fragrant piñon-juniper woodlands. You'll experience gentle elevation changes, with many trails offering panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from an elevation of around 7,000 feet.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in the Santa Fe Foothills?
Yes, several easy trails are suitable for families. The Dorothy Stewart Trail is a great option, offering a 1.9-mile path through high-desert terrain with gentle changes in elevation. The Santa Fe Canyon Preserve also features a 1.5-mile interpretive loop trail perfect for wildlife watching.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in the Santa Fe Foothills?
Many trails in the Santa Fe Foothills are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash on trails like the Sun Mountain Trail, which leads through piñon-juniper woodlands.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in the Santa Fe Foothills?
With over 320 days of sunshine annually, the Santa Fe Foothills are excellent for hiking year-round. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, offering vibrant wildflowers and colorful foliage, respectively. Even winter provides opportunities for clear, crisp hikes.
Are there any loop trails among the easy hiking options?
Yes, there are several loop options for easy hikes. For example, the Sun Mountain Trail is a 1.6-mile loop that offers a pleasant walk through piñon-juniper woodlands. The Santa Fe Canyon Preserve also features an interpretive loop trail.
What kind of wildlife might I see on the trails?
The diverse ecosystems of the Santa Fe Foothills support various wildlife. Hikers often spot deer, Cooper's hawks, and gray foxes. The Santa Fe Canyon Preserve is particularly known for its birdlife, with over 140 species, and even beavers.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in the Santa Fe Foothills?
The easy trails in the Santa Fe Foothills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley and Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the distinct high-desert and piñon-juniper woodland scenery, and the accessibility of the trails.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions near the easy hiking trails?
Yes, the Santa Fe Foothills are rich in natural beauty and cultural sites. While hiking, you'll enjoy views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Nearby, you can explore historical sites like the Old Santa Fe Trail and the Palace of the Governors, or visit the New Mexico Museum of Art.
Do I need any permits to hike the easy trails in the Santa Fe Foothills?
Generally, permits are not required for day hiking on most easy trails within the Santa Fe Foothills, including those in the Dale Ball Trails network or the Santa Fe National Forest. However, always check local regulations for specific areas or if you plan to venture into more remote sections.
Where can I find parking for easy hikes in the Santa Fe Foothills?
Many trailheads for easy hikes, such as the Atalaya Mountain Trailhead, offer designated parking areas. The extensive Dale Ball Trails network also has multiple access points with parking. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
Are there any easy trails that offer great views of Santa Fe?
Absolutely. Trails like the Atalaya Trail (170), even its easier lower sections, provide excellent views of the city and surrounding valley. The Dale Ball Trails also frequently offer beautiful city and mountain vistas as they wind through the foothills.
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