Trails in Taos, NM
Trails in Taos, NM offer a mix of hiking and mountain biking opportunities that showcase the region’s dramatic desert canyons, rolling high desert mesas, and expansive mountain views. Whether you’re strolling or pedaling along the Rio Grande Gorge, winding through forested Carson National Forest paths, or tackling the Horse Thief Mesa network near Arroyo Hondo, you’ll find terrain that suits both outdoor enthusiasts and casual adventurers alike. These trails are all within roughly 10–30 minutes of Taos, making them easy day trips from town or perfect add-ons to a visit to local scenic points like Taos Plaza, Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, or Wild Rivers Recreation Area.
Rio Grande Gorge West Rim Trail (Gorge Bridge Area)
~3.8 Miles Out-And-Back | Easy
This is the “wow factor” trail that delivers fast: wide-open high desert, massive canyon views, and a mostly flat track that hugs the edge of an ~800-foot gorge for long stretches. For hikers, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure walk—go a mile for the views, or keep cruising for a longer outing with nonstop overlooks and big-sky scenery. For mountain bikers, it’s a scenic, non-technical ride where speed and flow come from the terrain itself (more “keep your eyes up and soak it in” than “thread the needle”). One important note: the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge has had pedestrian closures—it doesn’t necessarily stop you from using nearby trails and overlooks, but it’s smart to check access status before you go.
Taos Valley Overlook Trails (BLM) — Multi-Use Loop Network
Up to ~16 Miles | Moderate
If you want something close to town that still feels like “Taos terrain,” this is the go-to: a web of singletrack loops and connecting two-track that roll through high desert and piñon-juniper country with views opening toward the Taos valley. For hikers, it’s great for stacking shorter loops into a longer morning—easy to tailor for families or casual walks, with enough variation to keep it interesting. For bikers, it’s an ideal “ride a little of everything” network—short punchy ups, quick downs, and plenty of intersections to build your own route without committing to a huge mission.
Horsethief Mesa Trail (BLM, near Arroyo Hondo)
12 Mile Loop | Moderate
Horsethief is the “flow-with-a-view” option—riding and hiking along the east side of the Rio Grande Gorge with big horizons, fast sections, and enough rock to keep you paying attention without turning it into a technical sufferfest. For mountain bikers, it’s a classic intermediate loop: rolling mesa terrain, quick transitions, and viewpoint moments that make you stop mid-ride just to stare. For hikers, it’s more of a “commit to the loop (or do a scenic section out-and-back)” style trail—excellent for a long, quiet walk where the scenery is constant and the vibe feels remote even though you’re not far from Taos.
Elliot Barker Trail (Carson National Forest, Palo Flechado Pass area)
~3.6 Miles Loop or Longer Out-And-Backs | Moderate
This is your “cooler, greener” contrast to the gorge trails—forest, meadows, and a more alpine feel without the full-day commitment. The route begins on an old jeep road and quickly gives you multiple choices for loops and extensions. For hikers, it’s a refreshing half-day walk in shaded terrain—great in warmer months when you want trees and quieter trail time. For bikers, it rides like a friendly backcountry loop: not super technical, but pleasantly varied, with grades that let you settle into a rhythm instead of constantly grinding or braking.
South Boundary Trail
~21–22 Miles | Moderate
This is the “plan-your-day-around-it” trail—widely regarded as one of Northern New Mexico’s premier rides, rolling through conifer forest and huge aspen stands with a true mountain-tour feel. For mountain bikers, it’s the signature experience: a long point-to-point with big descending payoff if you ride it in the classic direction, plus sections that can turn loose/rocky and demand focus near the end. For hikers, it’s best approached in segments (rather than the whole thing): pick a scenic section for a high-country outing and treat it as a “mountain walk with huge scenery” rather than a loop—because the full length is a serious undertaking.