Palace of the Governors – New Mexico Museum of Art loop from South Capitol
Palace of the Governors – New Mexico Museum of Art loop from South Capitol
4.9
(2488)
17,606
riders
Palace of the Governors – New Mexico Museum of Art loop from South Capitol
04:00
60.0km
1,250m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 56.9 km for 93 m
After 57.2 km for 97 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
56.5 km
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
56.6 km
Old Santa Fe
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
56.8 km
Loretto Chapel and the Miraculous Staircase
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
57.1 km
Old Town Santa Fe
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
57.2 km
Palace of the Governors
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
57.2 km
New Mexico Museum of Art
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
60.0 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
31.8 km
12.6 km
9.34 km
6.14 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
38.0 km
15.0 km
5.11 km
1.70 km
108 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,980 m)
Lowest point (2,020 m)
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 14 July
27°C
14°C
68 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a serious challenge on two wheels, the Palace of the Governors – New Mexico Museum of Art loop from South Capitol is one of the most demanding gravel biking trails Santa Fe has to offer. This difficult 37.3-mile (60.0 km) route packs in a hefty 4106 feet (1252 metres) of elevation gain, taking nearly 4 hours to complete. It's definitely an advanced gravel biking route in Santa Fe, New Mexico, best suited for riders with very good fitness and a taste for rugged terrain.
What to expect on Palace of the Governors – New Mexico Museum of Art loop from South Capitol
This loop starts in the historic heart of Santa Fe, near the iconic Palace of the Governors, a National Historic Landmark. You'll quickly transition from the city's unique blend of Native, Spanish, and Anglo architecture into the high desert landscape. Expect a varied ride under your tires, from dirt double-track and rustic paved sections to loose rocky gravel roads. The scenery changes dramatically, offering views of forested mountain slopes and piñon-juniper woodlands, with glimpses of the Rio Grande and surrounding ranges. Be prepared for significant climbing and potentially technical sections that might require you to dismount and walk your bike through sandy or silty areas.
Planning your visit
Given the route's difficulty and length, plan for an early start, especially during warmer months, to avoid the midday heat. While specific parking details for this exact loop aren't widely publicized, starting from the South Capitol area means you'll be in a relatively urban environment with various parking options, though some may be metered. Always carry plenty of water, as you'll be venturing into remote-feeling backcountry quickly. The best time of year to gravel bike this loop would be spring or fall, when temperatures are more moderate and the scenic gravel bike routes Santa Fe offers are at their most enjoyable.
Trail details
- Distance: 37.3 miles (60.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 4106 feet (1252 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 59 minutes
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