The best MTB trails around Sunlit Hills
4.7
(10)
202
riders
21
rides
Mountain biking around Sunlit Hills offers access to extensive trail networks within the greater Santa Fe region, known for its diverse natural features. The area transitions from foothills with piñon and juniper trees to higher elevations, providing a variety of terrains. Riders can experience everything from forested singletrack to more open, drier areas, characteristic of the Santa Fe Mountains. This varied landscape ensures a range of mountain biking experiences for different skill levels.
Best mountain bike trails around Sunlit Hills
…Last updated: October 11, 2026
33
riders
14.4km
02:40
300m
300m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
3.0
(1)
2
riders
8.43km
01:43
450m
450m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(4)
42
riders
27.7km
02:20
340m
340m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
48.2km
04:06
500m
500m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
16
riders
32.9km
04:22
660m
660m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
Santa Fe Plaza stands as the historic and cultural heart of Santa Fe. Founded in 1610, it’s one of the oldest continuously occupied public spaces in the United States. The Plaza was originally designed as the central square for the Spanish colonial Presidio, surrounded by residences, a chapel, and the seat of government. Over the centuries it evolved — welcoming trade caravans arriving along the historic Santa Fe Trail, serving as a gathering place for Indigenous, Spanish, Mexican, and later American communities, hosting centuries of civic, social, and cultural life. Today, the Plaza remains a lively public square ringed by adobe-style buildings, galleries, boutiques, and museums — including the Palace of the Governors, the oldest continuously occupied public building in the U.S. The plaza is also the official starting point for the Santa Fe to Taos thru-hike.
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Old Santa Fe is the historic downtown area. It's known for its mix of Naive Pueblo and Spanish Colonial styles of architecture and is an excellent mix of culture, history, shops, and views. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Atalaya Trail is a steep challenging trail up to Atalaya Mountain. Despite its difficulty, it's a popular challenge among local mountain bikers and a great way to get some serious exercise and some great views in close to town. It features tight turns, narrow, rocky singletrack, and steep grades, all between 7,000 and 8,000 feet! If done in the winter or early spring, there can also be ice at spots. While it can be ridden up or downhill be aware of hikers - this is a popular trail to get to the summit of the mountains.
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The Calabasas Trail is a nice flowing trail from Tano road down to the Calabasas trailhead in the northern part of the La Tierra trails. If riding east to west, it is generally downhill, but it can be ridden in both directions. There are many, many trails you can turn onto along this trail, enabling you to make loops of almost any length in this fun area.
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The North Boundary #1 #2 trail is the northernmost trail in the La Tierra trail network and most consider it to be one of the best, if not the best, XC trail in the area. From this popular section of trail you get fantastic views and great riding over swoopy, burmed switchbacks. Headed west from #1 it is mostly downhill, but headed east from #2-#1, you'll encounter some of the toughest climbing in the system.
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Dale Ball Trail #2-#3 are some of the northernmost trails in the excellent Dale Ball Trails just east of Santa Fe. This section can be access via the Sierra del Norte Trailhead, or you can ride up on the other Dale Ball Trails from two other parking areas and Trailheads along Cerro Gordo Road.
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Dale's Trail #24 is one of many in the extensive Dale Ball network. This super popular mountain biking area is conveniently located close to downtown Santa Fe and perfect to get in a bit of amazing single track during your lunch break or after work. This section of trail (#24) is how many access/exit this great trail system.
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The overlook boasts panoramic vistas of the Galisteo Basin, showcasing rolling hills, dramatic mesas, and the meandering Galisteo River.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Sunlit Hills?
There are 14 mountain bike routes around Sunlit Hills listed in this guide, ranging from easy to difficult. The broader Santa Fe area, which Sunlit Hills is part of, offers hundreds of miles of trails.
What are the difficulty levels of mountain bike trails in Sunlit Hills?
The trails around Sunlit Hills cater to various skill levels. This guide features 2 easy routes, 7 moderate routes, and 5 difficult routes. The diverse terrain, from foothills to higher elevations, ensures options for everyone.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails near Sunlit Hills?
Yes, the Santa Fe area, including trails accessible from Sunlit Hills, offers easier options suitable for beginners and families. The Santa Fe Rail Trail is a good example of a less technical option, and the La Tierra Trails system also provides gentler rides.
Can I find circular mountain bike routes in the Sunlit Hills area?
Yes, many routes around Sunlit Hills are designed as loops. For example, the Outer Dale Ball Trails loop is a popular moderate option, and the La Tierra Trails – Calabasas Trail loop from Santa Fe offers varied terrain in a circular format.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Sunlit Hills?
You can expect a diverse range of terrain. The area transitions from foothills with piñon and juniper trees to higher elevations in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This means you'll encounter everything from forested singletrack to more open, drier areas, and even rugged alpine sections at higher altitudes.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints along the mountain bike trails?
Many trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. For a challenging ride with rewarding vistas, consider the Atalaya Mountain route, which involves significant climbing to reach panoramic viewpoints. The Atalaya Mountain Trailhead is a key access point for this area.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Sunlit Hills?
The diverse elevation in the Santa Fe area allows for year-round mountain biking. Lower-elevation trails often remain dry and rideable even during winter. Higher mountain trails, particularly in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, are typically best after snowmelt in summer and into late autumn.
Are there any mountain bike trails accessible by public transport in Sunlit Hills?
While specific public transport links directly to Sunlit Hills trails are not detailed, the broader Santa Fe area offers convenient bus services to access some mountain trails, enhancing accessibility for riders without private vehicles.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Sunlit Hills?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning views, and the extensive network of trails that cater to all skill levels, from gentle cruises to challenging ascents.
Are there any nearby attractions or places to explore after a ride?
Yes, the Santa Fe area offers several cultural and historical attractions. You could visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, explore art at the New Mexico Museum of Art, or delve into history at the Palace of the Governors.
What are some moderate mountain bike trails in the area?
For moderate rides, you have several excellent options. The Dale Ball Trail (#24) loop from Cerro Gordo Trailhead is a popular choice, as is the Old Santa Fe Trail – Old Santa Fe loop from Santa Fe Depot, both offering engaging rides without extreme difficulty.
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