The best running trails around Mount Taylor
13
runners
9
runs
Jogging around Mount Taylor offers diverse landscapes and varied terrain. The region features dense ponderosa pine, spruce, and aspen forests, transitioning to open grassy slopes and rocky ridgelines at higher elevations. Its volcanic origins are evident in lava flows and a prominent summit depression, providing unique geological interest. The area's extensive trail network caters to various fitness levels, from accessible paths to challenging routes.
Best jogging routes around Mount Taylor
- The most popular jogging route is Mount Taylor Summit loop…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
9.13km
01:08
90m
90m
Explore the San Luis Mesa ACEC trail run, a moderate 5.7-mile route with 301 feet of gain, offering panoramic views and unique rock formatio
This 8.8-mile (14.1 km) moderate trail run loop on the Continental Divide Trail near Cuba, New Mexico, offers high desert views and challeng
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8.42km
01:02
80m
80m
Explore ancient petroglyphs and tower ruins on this 5.2-mile moderate jogging trail through New Mexico's remote Tapia Canyon.
5.49km
00:40
40m
40m
Jog this 3.4-mile (5.5 km) moderate route through Tapia Canyon ACEC to explore Guadalupe ruins, petroglyphs, and stunning New Mexico vistas.
5.97km
00:43
50m
50m
Jog the 3.7-mile Ojito Wilderness Hoodoo Trail Loop, a moderate route through New Mexico's high desert, featuring unique hoodoos and scenic
3.43km
00:25
30m
30m
Jog the easy 2.1-mile Seismosaurus Trail in Ojito Wilderness, featuring desert views, petroglyphs, and mountain panoramas.
11.4km
01:17
140m
140m
This moderate 7.1-mile jogging loop in Ojito Wilderness offers unique geological formations and expansive high desert views.
7
runners
25.9km
03:18
810m
810m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
6
runners
47.4km
06:36
1,880m
1,880m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
This trail is the boundary of the Ojito Wilderness, with nice views in the north of the Ojito Wilderness and in the south of the Zia Pubebo/Tsi'ya. The shade in this area is sparse so if running mid day, be sure to have sun protection.
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Cabezon Road is the explorer's dirt road for the Tierra Amarilla Anticline and Ojito Wilderness. The scenery and geology are said to be just as nice as some of the surrounding trails. Experienceing this road by trail running is a great option. Cars do take this road, but it is still not as heavily trafficked as surrounding highways.
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The Seismosaurus Trail is about a mile long and relatively flat. It leads up to a small cave with petroglyphs, where the trail terminates. Sometimes the trail is tricky to follow, so have the appropriate navigation ready. Parking can be found at Ojito Wilderness Parking on Cabezon Road. This trail was named after the Seismosaurus dinosaur uncovered here, one of the largest ever dug up in 1985.
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Ojito Wilderness Trail, or Hoodoo Trail, takes runners on a relatively flat trail; the trail ends just past Bernalillito Mesa and passes great view points and amazing hoodoo rock formations. A hoodoo is created by erosion, with a hard rock on top and softer rock beneath. The soft rock erodes faster, leaving a long, thin column with a larger rock on top, resembling a person with a large hat.
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Here are a collection of Hoodoo rock formations. To see more, continue on the Ojito Wilderness Trail (Hoodoo Trail) for the full loop and a chance to see Hoodoos of all different shapes, sizes, and colors.
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Guadalupe Ruin is a single-story masonry pueblo perched on top of an isolated sandstone mesa. This mesa is about 200 feet above the valley floor and gives visitors great views of canyons, mesas, and volcanic necks in the Rio Puerco Valley, along with this fantastic archeological look into the past. The ruin had 39 rectangular rooms and 7 kivas (kivas are shared spaces used for political meetings or for rites).
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Here is where the "trail" completely deteriorates and one must decide if they are turning back or continuing on for a route-finding, canyoneering adventure. Be aware that the terrain worsens after passing under the, and there is no official route other than the few miles of trail already traveled.
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These ruins are a sacred Navajo site and are still used by some groups today. Because the ruins sit atop the canyon walls, the climb to up can be steep in spots, and some off trail travel can be required so make sure not to branch too far out of your comfort zone. There are more petroglyphs in this area as well.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Mount Taylor?
There are 10 running routes available around Mount Taylor, catering to various fitness levels. These include 1 easy, 6 moderate, and 3 difficult trails, offering diverse experiences from gentle paths to challenging ascents.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the jogging trails near Mount Taylor?
Jogging routes around Mount Taylor feature diverse terrain, transitioning from dense ponderosa pine, spruce, and aspen forests to open grassy slopes and rocky ridgelines at higher elevations. You'll also encounter unique geological interests like lava flows and a prominent summit depression, reflecting the area's volcanic origins.
Are there any circular running routes in the Mount Taylor area?
Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. Notable options include the Mount Taylor Summit loop from Rock Tank, a challenging 14.1-mile trail, and the Continental Divide Trail and Piedra Lumbre Road to Deadman Peak trail run loop, an 8.7-mile moderate option. For a shorter loop, consider the Ojito Wilderness Hoodoo Trail Loop.
What are some easy jogging routes for beginners around Mount Taylor?
For beginners or those seeking an easier run, the Seismosaurus Trail is an excellent choice. This 3.4-mile route is rated as easy, offering a gentle introduction to the area's natural beauty without significant elevation gain.
What are the most challenging running routes near Mount Taylor?
For experienced runners seeking a challenge, the Mount Taylor Summit loop from Rock Tank is a difficult 14.1-mile trail with over 1000 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Running loop from Rock Tank, a difficult 16.1-mile path featuring high mountain meadows and sweeping views.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or landmarks to see while running around Mount Taylor?
Yes, Mount Taylor offers breathtaking panoramic views from elevated points, especially from the 11,305-foot summit. You can see vast lava fields, lush forests, and distant desert mesas. The Mount Taylor Summit itself is a significant natural landmark. Additionally, the region's volcanic origins provide unique geological interest along many trails.
What are some natural attractions near the jogging routes?
Beyond the summit, you can explore other natural wonders. The Natural Bridge and Slot Canyon offers unique geological formations, and Los Indios Canyon provides a scenic backdrop for your run. These natural monuments add to the diverse landscape of the Mount Taylor area.
What do other runners say about the jogging routes around Mount Taylor?
The komoot community highly values the diverse landscapes and varied terrain of Mount Taylor. Runners often praise the transition from dense forests to open grassy slopes and rocky ridgelines, as well as the panoramic views from higher elevations. The extensive trail network is appreciated for catering to various fitness levels.
Are there any historical sites or cultural landmarks near the running trails?
Yes, the area around Mount Taylor has several points of historical interest. You can find the Petroglyph Panel, an ancient historical site, and the Guadalupe ruins. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Which running routes offer the best views of the surrounding landscape?
Many routes provide stunning vistas, but those leading to higher elevations are particularly rewarding. The Mount Taylor Summit loop from Rock Tank is renowned for its panoramic views from the summit. The Running loop from Rock Tank also offers sweeping views across high mountain meadows.
What is the longest running route available in the Mount Taylor area?
The longest running route listed is the Running loop from Rock Tank, which spans 16.1 miles (25.9 km). This difficult trail offers an extensive journey through high mountain meadows and provides expansive views.
Most popular routes around Mount Taylor
Most popular attractions around Mount Taylor
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