The best traffic-free bike rides around Santa Fe

Our guide features 5 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Santa Fe, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes are carefully selected to ensure a peaceful ride away from vehicular traffic.

Santa Fe's gravel trails offer a diverse range of terrain, from smooth gravel paths and improved natural surfaces to unimproved doubletrack and dirt roads. You'll encounter high desert landscapes, piñon-juniper woodlands, and even higher-elevation pine and aspen forests, especially on routes like Pacheco Canyon Road. The region's high elevation, over 7,000 feet, means you can expect varied climbs and descents.

Yes, the Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Zia Road is an excellent option for families. The Santa Fe Rail Trail itself offers smooth gravel paths and rolling terrain, with the first 3.5 miles asphalted, making it accessible for various skill levels. Another great choice is the La Tierra Trails Loop from Santa Fe, which features varied terrain with minimal elevation changes, suitable for a relaxed family outing.

Santa Fe boasts approximately 320 to 325 days of sunshine per year, making it a fantastic year-round destination for gravel biking. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summer mornings are ideal before the heat sets in. Even winter can be enjoyable on lower-elevation trails, though higher mountain routes may be snow-covered.

The no-traffic gravel trails in Santa Fe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Riders frequently praise the stunning desert views, the sense of solitude on car-free paths, and the diverse landscapes that range from high desert to mountain foothills. The well-maintained surfaces of routes like the Santa Fe Rail Trail are also often highlighted.

Yes, several routes in our guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the La Tierra Trails Loop from Santa Fe and the Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Zia Road are both excellent circular options, perfect for a complete riding experience without retracing your steps.

Many of Santa Fe's outdoor trails, including gravel paths, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations before you go. Generally, dogs should be kept on a leash, and you should always clean up after them. Trails like the Santa Fe Rail Trail and La Tierra Trails are popular choices for riders with canine companions.

Santa Fe's gravel trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. You'll often see the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Jemez Mountains, and the Rio Grande. The La Tierra Trails Loop from Santa Fe provides excellent views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. While riding, you might also spot historical sites like the Old Santa Fe Trail or explore areas with ancient lava flows, particularly in the Caja del Rio region.

Absolutely. While many routes are moderate, our guide includes one difficult route for those seeking a greater challenge. The Gravel loop from Santa Fe Regional Airport, for instance, covers nearly 50 kilometers with significant elevation gain, providing a rewarding experience for advanced gravel bikers. The region's diverse terrain, including areas like Rowe Mesa and Pacheco Canyon Road, also offers opportunities for more demanding rides with varied surfaces and elevation changes.

The Santa Fe Rail Trail is particularly accessible via public transport, with trailheads like the one near Zia Road. The Santa Fe Trails bus system can connect you to various points around the city, including areas close to the Rail Trail. For other trailheads, such as those for La Tierra Trails or routes further out like Caja del Rio or Rowe Mesa, public transport options may be more limited, and driving or ride-sharing to the trailhead might be necessary.

Parking is generally available at designated trailheads for popular routes. For the Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Zia Road, you can find parking near the Zia Road trailhead. The La Tierra Trails Loop from Santa Fe also has multiple access points with parking. For routes starting further afield, like the Gravel loop from Santa Fe Regional Airport, parking will be available at or near the airport facilities. Always check specific trailhead information for the most accurate parking details.