The best gravel rides around Sunlit Hills

There are nearly a dozen gravel bike routes around Sunlit Hills listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for riders. Most of these are moderate in difficulty, with a few more challenging options.

The Sunlit Hills area offers diverse terrain for gravel biking. You'll encounter a mix of dirt double-track, rustic paved segments, and dedicated gravel roads. Expect everything from smooth red dirt roads to rougher two-tracks across high plateaus. Some routes may include short rocky inclines or sand/silt pits, occasionally requiring brief hike-a-bike sections.

Yes, several routes are suitable for those looking for a moderate gravel biking experience. For example, the La Tierra Trails Loop from Santa Fe is a moderate 15.3-mile route that offers a good introduction to the area's varied surfaces. Another moderate option is the Old Town Santa Fe – Old Santa Fe loop from Santa Fe Depot, which leads through rolling hills and urban fringes.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, the Palace of the Governors – New Mexico Museum of Art loop from Santa Fe Depot is a difficult 34.9-mile path. This longer route provides extensive views and a more demanding ride across the region's varied landscapes. The Caja Conquest, mentioned in regional research, is also known for its challenging, occasionally maintained dirt roads.

Northern New Mexico offers excellent riding conditions for much of the year. The crisp, dry air makes for comfortable riding outside of the hottest summer months. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant, but year-round riding is possible.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the area are designed as loops. For instance, the popular La Tierra Trails Loop from Santa Fe and the Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Zia Road are both circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

Gravel biking around Sunlit Hills offers stunning views of mountains and the expansive Rio Grande Valley. Many routes, such as the Caja Conquest and the NW Caja Meander, provide scenic vistas, including potential side-trips to locations like La Bajada Hill and La Bajada Mesa. You'll experience a blend of desert scenery and mountainous backdrops.

The gravel biking routes in Sunlit Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 15 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning views of the Rio Grande Valley and surrounding mountains, and the variety of options available for different skill levels.

Yes, the broader Santa Fe area, which many routes traverse, is rich in history and culture. You can find attractions such as The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, the New Mexico Museum of Art, and the historic Old Santa Fe Trail. The Palace of the Governors is another significant historical site nearby.

Yes, the Santa Fe Rail Trail is a popular feature in the area. The Santa Fe Rail Trail loop from Zia Road is a moderate 14-mile route that utilizes a section of this trail. The dirt section of the Santa Fe Rail Trail is also a recognized gravel biking segment in the region.

Beyond gravel biking, the Santa Fe region offers a wide array of outdoor activities. You can explore extensive opportunities for hiking and mountain biking in the Santa Fe National Forest and Cerrillos Hills State Park. The Rio Grande and Rio Chama rivers are popular for rafting and fly fishing. Golf courses and horseback riding are also available, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination.