The best traffic-free bike rides in Santa Fe County

Santa Fe County offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes. You can find nearly 50 routes, with a good mix of easy and moderate options to explore the diverse landscapes.

With approximately 300 days of sunshine annually, Santa Fe County is excellent for cycling almost year-round. Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures, while summer mornings are pleasant before the heat sets in. Even winter can be suitable for cycling on lower elevation routes, though higher mountain areas may have snow.

Yes, there are many easy options. For instance, the Arroyo de los Chamisos Trail loop from Rail Trail Parking is an easy 18.5 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for beginners or a relaxed ride.

The routes traverse a variety of stunning landscapes, from high desert terrain with piñon-juniper woodlands and mesas to the dramatic backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. You'll also find routes along the Rio Grande Valley and through areas with views of adobe homes and unique geological formations.

Many of the traffic-free routes are designed as loops. For example, the Old Santa Fe – Old Town Santa Fe loop from South Capitol offers a moderate 38 km ride, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

Many routes pass by or near significant landmarks. You might cycle past the Palace of the Governors or the New Mexico Museum of Art. Other routes offer views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains or the Rio Grande Valley. The region also features historical sites like the Old Santa Fe Trail.

While focusing on no-traffic, some routes still offer notable climbs. The Old Town Santa Fe – Palace of the Governors loop from Zia Road is a moderate 80 km route with over 800 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout while keeping you away from heavy traffic.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Santa Fe County, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning scenery, the variety of routes for different skill levels, and the opportunity to explore the region's unique blend of high desert and mountain landscapes.

Yes, you can find longer routes that minimize traffic. The Old Town Santa Fe – Palace of the Governors loop from Zia Road, for example, is over 80 km long, offering an extended ride through the area's beautiful terrain.

Many routes, like the Arroyo de los Chamisos Trail, have dedicated parking areas such as the Rail Trail Parking. For routes starting closer to urban centers, public transport options might be available, though it's best to check local Santa Fe transit schedules for specific access points to trailheads.

Absolutely. Santa Fe County is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. After a road ride, you could explore hiking trails in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, visit the geological wonders of Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, or even enjoy mountain biking on trails like La Tierra Trails or Dale Ball Trail.

Yes, cyclists can ride from Santa Fe Plaza towards Tesuque Village Market. While some routes might use Old Taos Highway or Bishops Lodge Road, you can find options that offer fresh air and views of the foothills, passing by idyllic farms on less-trafficked roads to reach the village.