Pajarito Canyon and Mountain Loop

Parking is typically available near the trailheads that lead into the Pajarito Canyon area. For routes that incorporate the Pajarito Bike Park, lift-served access is available during operating hours, which can influence your starting point.

As this trail is located within the Santa Fe National Forest, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required for day use on the trails themselves. However, always check with the local forest service office for any current regulations or fire restrictions before your visit.

Dogs are generally allowed on trails within the Santa Fe National Forest. It's always best to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Please remember to pack out any waste.

The best time to mountain bike this loop is typically from late spring through fall, when the trails are free of snow and ice. Summer offers warmer temperatures, but afternoon thunderstorms can occur. Always check current weather and trail conditions before heading out.

This loop is rated as moderate overall, but sections can be very challenging. The Pajarito Canyon Trail itself features significant elevation changes, with some climbs being particularly brutal and potentially requiring you to push your bike. The terrain includes rocky areas, switchbacks, and can be loose and chunky in parts.

The terrain is highly varied. You'll encounter singletrack along the Pajarito Canyon Trail, which can be overgrown in places. As you ascend the mountain, expect rocky sections, technical features, and steep climbs. Some trails in the broader Pajarito Bike Park area are hand-built, featuring rock gardens, log rides, and drops.

The route offers scenic views, especially from the top of Pajarito Mountain. You'll ride through the Pajarito Canyon Trail and pass by the Pajarito Catchment Basin. The landscape also shows the effects of the 2011 wildfire, adding a unique visual element.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll ride on parts of the Pajarito Canyon Trail, Nail Trail, Camp May Road Trail, Pajarito Nail Connector, and Two Mile Mesa Trail, among others. The broader area also includes trails like Aspenola, East Road, and Guaje Canyon Trail.

The full Pajarito Canyon and Mountain Loop, with its significant elevation gain and technical sections, is generally not recommended for beginners. While shorter, easier loops exist in the area, this specific route requires good fitness and advanced riding skills due to its challenging climbs and rugged terrain.

Be prepared for some very steep and potentially 'unclimbable' sections, especially on the mountain ascent, where you might need to push your bike. The Pajarito Canyon Trail is often ridden as a challenging downhill, so riding it uphill as part of a loop is a significant workout. For a less technical experience in the area, consider exploring the newer 'Aspenola' trail, which offers a flowier, blue-rated option.

The nearby town of Los Alamos offers various amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. The Pajarito Mountain Ski Area, which hosts the Pajarito Bike Park, also has facilities that may be open during the biking season, such as a lodge or basic services.