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MTB trails
United States
New Mexico
Doña Ana County

Sunland Park

The best MTB trails around Sunland Park

4.8

(22)

150

riders

28

rides

If you've ever tried to plan mountain biking around Sunland Park, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails crisscrossing the desert landscape, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed countless trails here, and we've curated this guide to save you the guesswork and point you straight to the rides that…

Last updated: May 30, 2026

5.0

(3)

30

riders

#1.

Benito Juárez Monument – Sierra de Juárez loop from El Paso

87.7km

07:31

1,030m

1,030m

The Benito Juárez Monument – Sierra de Juárez loop from El Paso is a formidable mountain biking adventure, taking you deep into the rugged desert landscapes that define the border…

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Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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The Top of Babyhead – Lechuguilla Trail loop from Franklin High School offers a rugged mountain biking adventure through the Chihuahuan Desert. You'll encounter classic desert flora like ocotillos and…

Moderate

The Lower Sunset Trail loop from Franklin High School offers a challenging mountain biking experience through the rugged beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert. You'll navigate rocky singletrack, tackle steady climbs,…

Moderate

The Top of Babyhead loop from Thunder Canyon Conservation Easement offers a mountain biking experience through a landscape of striking red rock formations and hoodoos, reminiscent of Bryce Canyon's dramatic…

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Javi Jaavii
January 19, 2024, Benito Juárez Monument

In the park named after the former president of Mexico, known as the Father of the Americas, you can find this monument in his honor, which was inaugurated in 1910 shortly before the start of the revolution.

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If you look carefully from this point at the rocky elevation to the east, you'll be able to see the entrance to the well-known Cueva Roja (Red Cave in Spanish). The cave gets its name from the red clay mineral inside, which you can notice even as you approach. However, if you want to climb up to see the entrance, you'll need to do it dismounted from the bike.

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Héctor
September 24, 2023, Sierra de Juárez

Cyclist friends who never lack water

Translated by Google

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The main road leading from the entrance to Tom Mays Unit is completely paved but a pretty popular spot for biking and running. It’s a nice warm-up for some of the steeper trails, too, so a lot of people just run up the road to get to different trailheads.

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Lower Sunset trail is one of the best running trails that you can access as soon as you pull into the park entrance. There are open views to the west the entire time, and the downhill back towards the campsites and picnic area is pretty sweet.

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Matthew
July 28, 2023, Lazy Cow Trail

Lazy Cow Trail is one of the easiest trails in the park and can be a crowded trail in the busy season. It's a great trail for running because of how smooth and gradual it is. It wouldn't be a bad place to do some strides at the end of a run.

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The Lechuguilla Trail is one of the many interconnecting trails in the network of paths on the west side of the mountains. The trail offers little to no shade (like many of the trails in the area) and can get pretty rocky at times. It isn't very steep, and it offers views of the valley the entire way.

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The Lechuguilla Trail is one of the many interconnecting trails in the network of paths on the west side of the mountains. The trail offers little to no shade (like many of the trails in the area) and can get pretty rocky at times. It offers views of the foothills the entire time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available in Sunland Park?

Sunland Park features over 25 mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult. The komoot community has explored 27 different routes in the area.

Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Sunland Park?

Yes, Sunland Park offers several easier routes. You can find 11 easy trails, often on dirt/gravel roads with gentler inclines, perfect for those new to mountain biking or looking for a relaxed ride.

What kind of challenges can advanced mountain bikers expect in Sunland Park?

Advanced riders will find challenging blue difficulty singletrack trails with significant climbs, some ascending as much as 692 feet. There are 3 difficult routes available, such as the 40.3-mile Small wooden bridge – Lazy Cow Trail loop from Northwestern/Hoover, which features substantial elevation gains through desert terrain.

Are there any scenic mountain bike routes in Sunland Park?

Many routes in Sunland Park offer scenic desert views and unique landscapes. The Sierra de Juárez loop from Cristo Curiel is a moderate 28.2-mile path that provides varied desert views, while the Top of Babyhead loop from Franklin High School leads through arid hills.

Can I find circular mountain bike routes in Sunland Park?

Yes, many mountain bike trails in Sunland Park are designed as loops. Examples include the Small wooden bridge – Lazy Cow Trail loop from Northwestern/Hoover and the Sierra de Juárez loop from Cristo Curiel, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

What natural landmarks or attractions can I see near the mountain bike trails?

While mountain biking is not permitted on Mount Cristo Rey itself, its presence offers panoramic views of three states and two countries. The Rio Grande river also shapes the local landscape. You can explore nearby attractions like the challenging Thousand Steps Trail for hiking or the Rio Grande Trail, a multi-use path.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Sunland Park?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse trails, unique desert landscapes, and the range of options for different skill levels.

Are there any long-distance mountain bike routes in Sunland Park?

Yes, Sunland Park offers several longer routes for endurance riders. The Small wooden bridge – Lazy Cow Trail loop from Northwestern/Hoover is a significant 40.3-mile (64.9 km) trail, and the Mountainbike loop from Northwestern/Hoover covers 32.6 miles (52.5 km).

What is the terrain like for mountain biking in Sunland Park?

The terrain in Sunland Park is characterized by unique desert landscapes and arid hills. You'll encounter varied surfaces, from challenging singletrack to easier dirt and gravel roads, with significant elevation changes on some routes.

Are there any multi-use paths that connect to mountain biking areas?

Yes, the region is developing its multi-use path network. The Rio Grande Trail, a multi-use path, is expanding to improve access to natural spaces. Extensions to the Paseo Del Sol Trail also aim to connect key areas, contributing to a broader network that includes the Paso Del Norte and Paseo Del Sol Trails.

Can I bring my dog on the mountain bike trails in Sunland Park?

While specific regulations for dogs on all mountain bike trails are not detailed, many desert trails in the region are generally dog-friendly. It's always best to check local signage or specific trail guidelines before heading out with your pet, and ensure they are leashed and you carry water for them.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Sunland Park?

Given the desert climate, the cooler months from fall through spring (roughly October to April) are generally the most comfortable for mountain biking in Sunland Park. Summers can be very hot, making early morning or late afternoon rides essential to avoid extreme temperatures.

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