The best cycling routes around Cañada De Los Alamos
5.0
(2)
75
riders
3
rides
Touring cycling around Cañada De Los Alamos is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including volcanic mesas, deep canyons, and high desert terrain. The region is situated on the Pajarito Plateau, offering views of the Jemez Mountains and the Rio Grande Valley. Cyclists can navigate through areas featuring piñon pines and pine forests, with routes often involving varied elevation changes.
Best touring cycling routes around Cañada De Los Alamos
- The most popular touring cycling route is Santa Fe River Trail –…
Last updated: September 28, 2026
5.0
(1)
23
riders
35.5km
02:43
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
19.5km
01:50
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
25.4km
01:32
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
riders
22.2km
01:57
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
23.6km
01:38
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
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.
0
0
You get uninterrupted views across the red earth from the packed dirt path. Here the Santa Fe Rail Trail meets the Spur Trail.
0
0
Today the chapel is a wedding venue and museum, which you can visit for $5. It features a highly unique spiral staircase, which was built without a center pole such that the weight of all the stairs rests on the base step, and the staircase springs up and down like an accordion when faced with heavy vibrations. For the first ten years, it didn't even have a railing.
1
0
The Basilica was built in the late 1800s by Archbishop Jean Baptiste Lamy, 26 years before New Mexico even became a U.S. state. However the site is much older than that, as the current structure is built on the foundations of earlier churches dating all the way back to 1626.
1
0
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.
0
0
Santa Fe is New Mexico's state capital and sits at almost 7,200 feet. The town is known for its' Pueblo-style architecture and its creative arts community. It's also one of the oldest cities in the USA, being founded in the early 1600's.
0
0
This small waterfall near Frenchy’s Field Park is a picturesque spot to pause as you walk along the river.
0
0
This park is an interesting highlight near the Santa Fe River. The name comes from Frenchy Parachou, who owned a dairy farm here and later donated the land to the city as an open space area. There are some paths and trails that run through the 17-acre property and lots of wildflowers, fruit trees and even a prairie dog habitat!
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Cañada De Los Alamos?
Komoot currently features a selection of touring cycling routes in and around Cañada De Los Alamos. While the immediate area has a few dedicated routes, the broader region, particularly the Santa Fe Rail Trail system, offers numerous options for exploration.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling in Cañada De Los Alamos?
Touring cyclists in Cañada De Los Alamos will experience diverse landscapes shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Expect to ride through volcanic mesas, deep canyons like White Rock Canyon and Frijoles Canyon, and high desert terrain with piñon pines. You'll also enjoy views of the Jemez Mountains and the expansive Rio Grande Valley.
Are there any easy or family-friendly touring cycling routes?
Yes, there are routes suitable for families and beginners. The Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Rail Trail Parking is an easy 12.1-mile (19.5 km) route, perfect for a more relaxed ride. Another easy option is the Santa Fe Plaza – Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Zia Road, offering a pleasant 23.5 km ride.
What are some of the more challenging touring cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Santa Fe River Trail – Frenchy's Falls loop from Rail Trail Parking is a popular 15.8-mile (25.4 km) route with varied surfaces. Another moderate option is the Santa Fe Rail Trail – Old Santa Fe loop from La Loma Post Office, which covers 21.6 miles (34.8 km) and explores the wider Santa Fe area with more elevation gain.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, several routes in the area are designed as loops. Examples include the Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Rail Trail Parking, the Santa Fe Plaza – Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Zia Road, and the Bike loop from El Dorado Community School. These offer convenient starting and ending points.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Cañada De Los Alamos?
The region experiences diverse weather. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with milder temperatures. Summer can be warm, especially in the high desert, while winter may bring colder temperatures and potential snow at higher elevations. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
What attractions or points of interest can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes, especially those along the Santa Fe Rail Trail, offer access to various points of interest. You can explore sections near the Santa Fe Rail Trail itself, or venture towards areas like the Atalaya Mountain Trailhead. The broader region also features attractions like Bandelier National Monument and Valles Caldera National Preserve, which are worth exploring off the bike.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes?
Many popular trailheads, particularly along the Santa Fe Rail Trail, offer designated parking areas. For example, routes like the Santa Fe River Trail – Frenchy's Falls loop from Rail Trail Parking start directly from a parking facility, making access convenient.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling options in the Cañada De Los Alamos area?
While the immediate routes listed are generally day trips, the extensive Santa Fe Rail Trail system and connections to other regional trails provide opportunities for longer rides by combining segments. For example, the Santa Fe Rail Trail – Old Santa Fe loop from La Loma Post Office is one of the longer options at 34.8 km, and can be extended further.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Cañada De Los Alamos?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, which ranges from high desert to volcanic mesas, and the well-maintained sections of trails like the Santa Fe Rail Trail, offering a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces suitable for touring bikes.
Can I bring my dog on touring cycling routes in Cañada De Los Alamos?
Many multi-use trails in the region, including sections of the Santa Fe Rail Trail, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations or park rules for any restrictions before you go, especially within national monuments or preserves.
Most popular attractions around Cañada De Los Alamos
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
