Farmington is an iconic Four Corners mountain bike destination with trails winding through badlands and over sandstone. Unlike Moab or other desert biking locations, Farmington offers a less crowded area with incredible desert riding. It truly is a hidden gem for mountain bike enthusiasts. Whether you're there to ride every day or to mix the trip with rafting, fishing, and biking, you won't regret making Farmington your home base. With over 120 miles of biking trails for different skill levels and comfort, your trip will be filled with adventure.
Best Mountain Bike Trails in Farmington, NM
Mountain biking in Farmington, NM is a great family adventure in the desert. Farmington offers a variety of trails to fit each rider's skill and comfort level. We will delve into five great trail options that cater to various levels and goals for the day of riding.
Anasazi Trail
This is a 2.9-mile green trail in the Calle Norte Skills Park. The trail is open year-round and allows dogs. This loop is an excellent option for families; with an elevation gain of just 167 ft, it is suitable for riders of all ability levels. Because of this, it's the perfect trail for those interested in beginner mountain biking in Farmington, New Mexico.
The trail is dynamic, with rolling terrain and bermed corners to maximize the flow. As a non-motorized multi-use trail, bikers should be prepared to encounter hikers and runners. Remember, pedestrians have the right-of-way over bikers. That said, this trail is optimized for mountain bikers! The best option for accessing this trail is to park at the Hood Mesa Trailhead, just east of the intersection of College Blvd and Hood Mesa Trail. The trail runs counterclockwise, which is vital to get the most out of your ride. For a fun add-on, intermediate and advanced riders should take a run down Jackrabbit Trail to hit the drops and jumps!
Animas River Trail
This partially paved trail is an excellent option for those seeking a leisurely, scenic ride along the river. It runs through Berg Park, making it a fantastic choice for a riverside picnic and another ideal family adventure. The trail winds through town and along the river, allowing you to ride as long as you like, with a total distance of 13.7 miles out and back. The Animas River Trail can be ridden on just about any bike; MTB not required!
Riders can expect beautiful, lush trees that provide shade in the summer. There are restrooms along the trail for riders' convenience. This trail system is suitable for cyclists but be prepared to share the trail with wildlife, walkers, hikers, and runners. With views of the Animas River, bikers can enjoy the incredible colors of the changing seasons when riding in the fall. The best place to start is the paved parking lot off South Miller Avenue at the southwest end of the trail.
Kinseys - Seven Sisters – Rigor Mortis Loop
This 9-mile ride in Glade Run Recreation Area consists primarily of intermediate (Blue) trails and is a fantastic high-desert singletrack loop. Riders start and finish at the newly completed Calle Norte Bike Park, which features progressive jump lines and skills features, along with a bathroom, ramada, and grill. The first three miles follow Kinseys Ridge which gradually ascends on a sandy singletrack with views of badlands on one side and the La Plata Mountains on the other. After crossing County Road 3536 the riders turn right onto Seven Sisters, a fast and sometimes exposed bomb down a ridgeline. When Seven Sisters rejoins County Road 3536 you can enjoy a mellow, rolling climb back to Kinseys or for bonus miles and smiles, climb the road and do laps on Wild Bills and Lakeview. The return leg of the loop follows the Rigor Mortis Trail, which parallels Kinseys. Please be aware that these trails are directional and signage can be inconsistent. Those not familiar with the area should consider using apps like MTB Project or Trailforks for route finding. There’s little to no shade in the area, so bring plenty of water and start early in the day during the summer months!
All of the trails in Glade Run are dog-friendly, due to the sandy soils and mellow grades. Make sure to bring a leash and plenty of water, and watch out for other trail users and wildlife.
Road Apple Rally
The Road Apple Rally route follows the course for the annual Road Apple Rally MTB Race, which happens to be the oldest continuously run MTB race in the country! The course is fast and flowing, with a mixture of singletrack and dirt road with a bit of pavement for good measure. This ride is packed with whoops, fast descents, and rolling climbs, cruising through diverse terrain and scenery. Visitors to this iconic trail can ride through the badlands and across ancient sandstone. Like the Kinseys – Seven Sisters – Rigor Mortis loop (which is also part of the Road Apple Course) signage can be inconsistent so make sure you have your maps! For comprehensive maps and GPX files go to www.roadapplerally.com and while you’re there, register for the race on Saturday, October 5! This beloved MTB race is held annually, on the first Saturday of October.
Preparing for Your Bike Trip
No matter how prepared you think you are, visiting a local bike shop is essential. We recommend checking out 505 Cycles, which offers bike repair, custom builds, and all other biking needs. They also have a rental shop for those interested in renting. Another great option for repairs, service, and rentals is Sandstone Cycles. These shops will help you get on the trail and enjoy the free mountain biking Farmington, NM, has to offer.
As with any outdoor adventure, it’s always a good idea to contact the local BLM office for permit information and to confirm that none of the trails require passes. We recommend using apps like Trailforks or MTB Project for up-to-date trail information, directions, and maps. For general trail information, you can also pick up a Farmington Recreation Trail Map at the Farmington Museum & Visitor Center or download Map 1 and Map 2 online.
Make Farmington, NM Your Basecamp
Whether you're in the Four Corners area purely for mountain biking or planning to enjoy a mix of activities like fishing and rafting, Farmington is the ideal base camp. The town offers excellent local dining options to fuel your adventures. Start your day at Juniper Coffee & Eatery, where you can enjoy exceptional coffee and food that celebrate the surrounding Indigenous communities. Conveniently located near the Anasazi and Road Apple Rally trails, it's the perfect spot to begin your day. After a day on the trails, unwind at Lauter House, a brewery and arcade with a fun atmosphere that also supports a local nonprofit bike organization. With a range of food, hotels, and camping options to suit all budgets and preferences, Farmington ensures your stay is as comfortable as it is adventurous.
Farmington, NM, isn’t just a stop on your journey—it’s a destination that promises adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. With its stunning trails, welcoming community, and diverse activities, Farmington invites you to explore the best of what the Four Corners region has to offer. Whether you're hitting the trails, enjoying the local dining, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Farmington is the perfect place to stay, play, and make lasting memories. Plan your visit, stay awhile, and discover why Farmington is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike.