Hiking/Backpacking
The majority of public lands in New Mexico are open to hiking and backpacking. Certain BLM lands provide excellent opportunities for these activities, especially where they are combined with scenic landscapes, or with special designations such as Wilderness areas. Some BLM locations have designated trails, while other areas require visitors to find their way through the landscape with map and compass. BLM offers trails that will take you through the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico, past historic forts, through rugged lava flows, over picturesque badlands, and into the scenic Rio Grande Gorge.
For your own safety sake, study maps and site information before you go so you are properly prepared. Tell someone where you’re going and your expected time of return. Bring plenty of drinking water. New Mexico is known for its rapidly changing weather - don’t be caught off guard. Summer afternoon thunderstorms are typical. Be prepared to avoid lightening by timing your visit to peaks, ridges and open areas during the morning. BLM lands aren’t known for their shade; be sure to bring along sunscreen. Also, make sure you have warm cloths, even in the summer months nighttime temperatures can drop significantly; and a rain jacket is essential during the thunderstorm season.
Our most outstanding opportunities for hiking or backpacking are listed in the column to the right. Follow the links to the individual recreation websites to learn more about each area.
Horseback Riding
Equestrian activities on public lands generally occur on existing roads and trails or in open country areas. Some recreation sites include trails that have been specifically designated for horseback riding. The sites listed to the right are some of the better opportunities for horseback riding.
For your own safety sake, study maps and site information before you go so you are properly prepared. Tell someone where you’re going and your expected time of return. Bring plenty of drinking water. New Mexico is known for its rapidly changing weather - don’t be caught off guard. Summer afternoon thunderstorms are typical. Be prepared to avoid lightening by timing your visit to peaks, ridges and open areas during the morning. BLM lands aren’t known for their shade; be sure to bring along sunscreen. Also, make sure you have warm cloths, even in the summer months nighttime temperatures can drop significantly; and a rain jacket is essential during the thunderstorm season.

Mountain Biking
Mountain biking opportunities in New Mexico are outstanding in terms of scenic value and variety of riding experiences. Trails on BLM lands offer challenge and reward for the beginner and expert, alike. Unless posted, all roads on BLM lands are available for mountain biking.
When biking on public lands, always ride with a partner and leave word with someone else regarding your whereabouts and time of return. Using the appropriate mountain biking ethics will assure the longevity of the natural resource and the continued ability to participate in the sport. Please avoid creating new trails or switchbacks; avoid damaging vegetation and soils by staying on the existing trail. Mountain bikers are expected to yield to hikers and horseback riders. Give verbal warning to hikers when approaching from behind. Also remember that sudden rainfalls can turn solid trails into heavy mud. You should always have the following items when biking: helmet, sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear, water, snacks, air pump, allen wrenches, pliers, chain tool, tire levers, patch kit, and spare tubes.
Some of the better mountain biking areas on BLM lands in New Mexico are at the sites listed in the right hand column.
For information on BLM's National Mountain Bicycle Strategic Action Plan visit: www.blm.gov/mountain_biking/qa.htm.