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Mountain Biking 101: Where to Ride in Angel Fire This Summer

By Brandon Prather

Discover the best biking trails in Angel Fire for all skill levels, from easy rides to thrilling downhill challenges.

If you’re looking to trade your hiking boots for knobby tires and a full-face helmet, Angel Fire is the place to be. Whether you’re a beginner cyclist, weekend warrior, or seasoned shredder, this mountain town offers some of the best biking in the Southwest. From smooth scenic paths to adrenaline-pumping descents, there’s a ride for everyone—and it all kicks off soon.

🟢 For Beginners: Smooth Cruising & Gentle Climbs

 

New to mountain biking? Angel Fire is a great place to start. These beginner-friendly trails are mellow, scenic, and perfect for building confidence on two wheels.

 

Sendero del Sol (Gravel Trail)
Looking for a scenic, non-technical ride? Sendero del Sol is a gravel trail winding through the valley floor, perfect for hybrid or gravel bikes. With wide open views and low traffic, it’s great for casual riders and those easing into mountain terrain.

Bobcat Trail (Greenbelt Trail System)
A favorite for local families and beginners, Bobcat is a gentle loop through aspen groves and open meadows. Expect smooth singletrack, minimal elevation gain, and peaceful views—ideal for a relaxing ride or a warm-up spin.

Easy Street (Angel Fire Bike Park)
True to its name, Easy Street is a flowy, wide-open trail designed for riders just starting out in the Angel Fire Bike Park. Smooth berms, rollers, and no major obstacles make this a fun and un-intimidating intro to downhill riding.

Angel Fire Bike Park Open for Summer!

Get ready to drop in. The largest bike park in the Rockies is back for the summer season, offering over 60 miles of purpose-built trails, lift-served downhill access, and endless thrills.

Angel Fire Bike Park

🟦 Intermediate Riders: Flow, Fun & Challenge

 

Ready to step it up? These trails are perfect for riders with some experience under their belt—expect more speed, flow, and a bit of challenge.

 

Base Skills Park (Bike Park)
Before heading up the lift, hit the Base Skills Park to sharpen your technique. This practice zone features small features, berms, and balance elements designed to help intermediate riders gain confidence. It’s the perfect place to dial in your body position, braking, and cornering before dropping into the bigger trails.

Chutes & Ladders (Bike Park)
This iconic blue trail lives up to its name with playful lines, wooden features, and swooping turns that keep the stoke high. It’s a step up from Easy Street but still approachable for progressing riders. Expect a fun mix of flow and light tech with a few optional challenges along the way.

Middle Finger (Bike Park)
This trail name might raise eyebrows, but it’s all about fun. Middle Finger is a crowd favorite at Angel Fire Bike Park with smooth berms, small tabletops, and rolling terrain that delivers speed without stress. It’s a great confidence builder for riders looking to get more airtime or step into steeper lines.

Elliot Barker Trail (Cross-Country Gem)
A true Angel Fire classic, the Elliot Barker Trail offers a beautiful and moderately challenging ride through alpine meadows, aspen groves, and dense forest. Located in the Carson National Forest above Angel Fire, this 5-mile loop features steady climbs, peaceful singletrack, and sweeping views of the Moreno Valley. It’s a favorite among locals for its serenity and wildlife sightings—keep an eye out for elk, wild turkey, and maybe even a bear at a distance.

“Angel Fire’s the place that hooked me on downhill riding. The trails are flowy, the crew keeps them in top shape, and the lift access means more ride time, less grind. Start on Angel’s Drop—trust me.”    Jake C., local rider and Bike Park regular since 2012

🔴 Advanced & Expert: Downhill Thrills & Big Terrain

 

Seasoned rider? These trails aren’t messing around. Expect steep descents, technical features, and serious airtime—built for riders who live for the challenge.

 

Upper Supreme DH (Bike Park)

This double black diamond trail is not for the faint of heart. It’s steep, fast, and packed with technical features—think drops, roots, rocks, and tight corners. Upper Supreme is a signature run for expert downhillers looking to push their limits.

Hungry Hippo (Bike Park)
Got hang time on your mind? Hungry Hippo is a jump-lover’s dream. With massive tabletops, sculpted berms, and machine-built flow, this trail is all about big moves and clean landings. Built for advanced riders who want to send it with style.

South Boundary Trail (Cross-Country Classic)
If you’re looking for the ultimate backcountry ride, the South Boundary Trail delivers. This epic point-to-point route takes you from the high country above Angel Fire to the outskirts of Taos. Along the way, you’ll ride through alpine meadows, aspen groves, and dense pine forests, with long, flowing singletrack and punchy climbs. It’s wild, remote, and absolutely worth the effort. Bring a shuttle plan—and your A-game.

 

Mountain Bike Essentials: What to Bring

Before you hit the trail, double-check this basic gear list to keep your ride smooth and safe:

  • Helmet (full-face recommend for downhill)

  • Gloves (for grip and protection)

  • Hydration pack or water bottle

  • Protective gear: knee and elbow pads, optional chest/back protection

  • Bike tools & tube (mini pump, multi-tool, spare tube)

  • Trail map or app (like Trailforks or MTB Project)

  • Snacks or energy chews

  • Lift pass or trail access pass

  • Layers: weather changes fast in the mountains—bring a light jacket

Bonus Tip: If you’re renting gear, arrive early—weekends can get busy and sizes go fast.

 

Gear Up & Ride On

Need a bike? No problem. Local shops like Mountain Sports of Angel Fire and the Angel Fire Bike Shop offer rentals, gear, and trail advice. And if you’re heading into the Bike Park, helmets and protective gear are highly recommended—safety first, stoke second.

 

Trail Etiquette 101

  • Yield to uphill riders and hikers on shared trails

  • Don’t stop in the middle of a descent—pull off to the side

  • Respect closures and signage (especially during muddy conditions)

  • Pack it in, pack it out—leave no trace

  • Ride within your skill level (and don’t forget to smile)

Learn more about how to Explore Responsibly

 

Plan Your Ride, Be Prepared, and HAVE FUN!

Whether you’re rolling through the meadows or sending it off a tabletop, Angel Fire is your mountain biking basecamp this summer. Trails are calling—grab your ride, bring your crew, and hit the dirt.

Learn more about the Angel Fire Bike Park
Explore Trail Maps and Rentals

 

Village of Angel Fire Weather

Right Now

51°F Clear
9mph SSE gusts to 9 mph

Thu 19

77°F 55°F

Fri 20

79°F 54°F

Sat 21

76°F 54°F

Sun 22

70°F 54°F

Mon 23

65°F 48°F