La Tierra Trails Loop from Santa Fe

The La Tierra Trails system is easily accessible from Santa Fe. A common access point for this loop is the La Tierra Trails - Calabasas Trailhead, which typically offers parking. The trails are well-marked with maps at every junction, making navigation straightforward once you've parked.

Yes, the La Tierra Trails system is multi-use and generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to ensure safety for other trail users, wildlife, and your pet, especially given the shared nature of the trails with cyclists, hikers, and equestrians.

The La Tierra Trails offer enjoyable gravel biking for much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide the most pleasant temperatures. During drier months, some sections can become loose or sandy. While winter biking is possible, be mindful of colder temperatures. Summer can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access and ride the La Tierra Trails system. It is part of the Santa Fe Open Space, freely accessible to the public.

This loop is rated as moderate for gravel biking. The La Tierra Trails system offers a range of difficulties, with many sections having gentle grade changes suitable for all skill levels. However, this specific loop includes some gravel-filled climbs and varied terrain that requires good fitness, making it best suited for intermediate riders. A capable cyclocross or gravel bike can navigate much of the network.

You'll encounter a diverse mix of surfaces, including dirt roads, doubletrack, and fast singletrack. The terrain is largely rolling, with some sandy sections and gravel-filled climbs. While primarily designed for mountain biking, a gravel bike handles the network well, offering a 'fun, rideable terrain for any level.' During drier periods, some trails can become loose.

Riders are treated to classic New Mexico high-desert landscapes. You'll experience open vistas, juniper glades, and panoramic views of Santa Fe, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Sandias, and the Jemez Mountains. The vegetation includes cedar, piñon, cholla, and yucca, creating a distinctive desert aesthetic.

Yes, the route passes by several notable points. You'll experience the historic charm of Old Santa Fe and traverse through the expansive Santa Fe Open Space, which encompasses the La Tierra Trails. The La Tierra Trails - Calabasas Trailhead is also a key highlight and access point.

Yes, the route utilizes and intersects with various other trails within the extensive La Tierra Trails system. Notably, it passes through sections of the La Tierra Trails, the Old Spanish Trail - Santa Fe to Española, and the Santa Fe River Trail.

While many sections of the La Tierra Trails are suitable for beginners, this specific loop is rated as moderate due to some gravel-filled climbs and varied terrain. Beginners with good fitness and a capable gravel bike might find it manageable, but some sections may present a challenge. The overall La Tierra Trails system does offer easier, more flowy sections for those just starting out.

The La Tierra Trails system is vast, with over 25 miles of interconnected trails. It's well-marked with maps at every junction, which greatly aids navigation. Using a GPS device or a mapping app like komoot is highly recommended to follow your planned route and explore the network confidently, especially given the variety of trails from flowy singletrack to doubletrack.