The majority of public lands in New Mexico are open to hiking and backpacking, and many are also open to horseback riding and mountain biking. In addition, New Mexico public lands host some outstanding trails for these activities. These trails can 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. Some of these trails or areas are also open to off-highway vehicle use. Please visit our individual recreation websites on the left for trail details and information regarding permitted versus prohibited activities on specific trails and areas.

New Mexico is known for its rapidly changing weather -- don’t be caught off guard. Be prepared for typical summer afternoon thundershowers. Avoid peaks, ridges and open areas during these electrical storms to avoid lightening strikes. It is best to get an early start, and plan to be off the peaks by noon or 1:00 p.m. Be sure to bring along sunscreen, raingear and drinking water. And during the cold and cooler months, makes sure to bring plenty of warm clothes and layers to stay comfortable.

Remember, spending time at high altitudes requires more time and energy. So take your time, enjoy the scenery and avoid overexertion. Be sure someone knows where you are going and when you plan to return. Also, remember that you are sharing these public lands trails and be courteous to other users. Please help us take care of your public lands - leaving no trace of your visit. Visit our Recreation Guidelines webpage for additional safety information.

Horseback Riding

Equestrian activities on public lands generally occur on existing roads and trails or open country areas. In addition, certain recreation sites include trails that have been specifically designated for horseback riding.

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 signed otherwise, 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. Mountain bike ethics are important for the longevity of the natural resource and for the sport.  Please avoid creating new and unsightly trails or switchbacks and damaging vegetation 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. Bring the following recommended items when biking: helmet, sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear, water, snacks, air pump, allen wrenches, pliers, chain tool, tire levers, patch kit, and spare tubes.

For information on BLM's National Mountain Bicycle Strategic Action Plan visit: www.blm.gov/mountain_biking/qa.htm.

Trails Carlsbad Field Office   Black River Recreation Area   Guadalupe Backcountry Byway   Hackberry Lake OHV Area   Pecos River Corridor Recreation Area Farmington Field Office   Angel Peak Scenic Area   Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness   Dunes Vehicle Recreation Area   Glade Run Recreation Area   Simon Canyon Area of Critical Environmental Concern Las Cruces District Office   Aguirre Spring Campground   Continental Divide National Scenic Trail   Dripping Springs Natural Area   Gila Lower Box Canyon   Granite Gap   Kilbourne Hole Volcanic Crater   Lake Valley Backcountry Byway   Lake Valley Historic Townsite   Prehistoric Trackways National Monument   Sierra Vista Trail   Soledad Canyon Day Use Area   Three Rivers Petroglyph Site Rio Puerco Field Office   Cabezon Peak Wilderness Study Area   Cebolla Wilderness   Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway   Continental Divide National Scenic Trail   El Malpais National Conservation Area   Ignacio Chavez Special Management Area   Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument   Ojito Wilderness   Perea Nature Trail   San Ysidro Trials Area   West Malpais Wilderness   White Mesa Bike Trails Roswell Field Office   Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area   Haystack Mountain OHV Area   Mescalero Sands North Dune OHV Area   Valley of Fires Recreation Area Socorro Field Office   Continental Divide National Scenic Trail   Datil Well Recreation Area Campground   Fort Craig National Historic Site   Gordy's Hill Area   Quebradas Backcountry Byway   San Lorenzo Canyon Recreation Area   Socorro Nature Area   The Box Recreation Area Taos Field Office   Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River   Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River   Wild Rivers Backcountry Byway   Wild Rivers Recreation Area   Orilla Verde Recreation Area   Santa Cruz Lake Recreation Area   Sabinoso Wilderness