Best Off Road in New Mexico

Trying to find the best off road in New Mexico? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

New Mexico, Cibola County

02 :13 hrs
10.5 mi
339.78223 ft
Unknown

This road is a secluded dirt road off Limekiln Canyon that wanders through the Zuni Mountains. There is a lot of history of railroads, logging, and sheep herding, which is what many of the trails in the area were used for. It has some pretty good ruts that can be muddy and difficult if there is wet weather. A stock SUV with clearance is recommended.

2

New Mexico, Otero County

00 :32 hrs
2.7 mi
230.64282 ft
Unknown

Lucas Canyon Trail is a pleasant ride through some beautiful terrain. The trail follows a dirt road that can be rocky in some parts. There is a scenic meadow with wildflowers and good opportunity to see wildlife. This trail is shared with hikers and mountain bikers so be courteous.

3

New Mexico, Sandoval County

04 :56 hrs
23.3 mi
796.39404 ft
Unknown

Forest Service Road 376 is a beautiful road through the Sante Fe National Forest. The trail begins on historic Gilman Tunnels with the Rio Guadalupe running alongside. It follows a graded dirt road most of the way till the very end which is rutted and rocky. There are several places for camping, fishing, and relaxing. The scenery is awesome.

4

New Mexico, Taos County

01 :32 hrs
7.3 mi
902.94995 ft
Unknown

Goose Lake is a super fun and challenging trail. There is a water crossing at the entrance that can be anywhere from 12” to 30” deep depending on the season. Be sure to ride as close to the dam as possible when crossing. The trail soon turns into a narrow shelf road with not enough room for two vehicles to pass. Near the end, the road gets a little rocky. This trail is not for the faint of heart but it has beautiful scenery and a cool lake at the end. Dispersed camping is possible.

5

New Mexico, Socorro County

00 :38 hrs
4.8 mi
154.41797 ft
Unknown

Bad Hair Day is reached by first driving a portion of the Quebradas Backcountry Byway and half of the Hidden Valley Loop. Once you reach the trail expect continuous stretch of big rocks and boulders along the bottom of a narrow ravine ending with a final step. Pinstriping is likely as well as possible rock damage on rims. There are no bypasses and no places to turn around. You’ll need a modified vehicle with a lift and lockers. Flash flooding is common in this area so be sure to check the weather and do not enter when there is water flowing.

6

New Mexico, Socorro County

00 :04 hrs
0.7 mi
47.474976 ft
Unknown

This short trail is packed with technical obstacles and should be done in groups. You cannot turn around. The trail is a narrow and rocky ravine with steep grades and steps. This is for experienced drivers and modified vehicles with a lift, big tires, and lockers. A winch is also recommended. Flash flooding and rattlesnakes are common in the area so be cautious.

7

New Mexico, Socorro County

00 :39 hrs
5.1 mi
144.34192 ft
Unknown

This trail hs some unique geologic features in a high mountain desert. The trail is a narrow, rocky wash with some fun and challenging terrain. Expect some tight turns and rocks to negotiate. Flash flooding is common in this area so never enter the canyon when water is flowing or rain is in the forecast.

8

New Mexico, Socorro County

01 :07 hrs
5.6 mi
170.802 ft
Unknown

San Lorenzo Canyon follows a graded dirt road on hard-packed dirt. It is very scenic and has slot canyons and hoodoos to explore. The most challenging part is deep sand as you enter the arroyo. It is suitable for a 2WD vehicle when the weather is dry. Flash flooding is common so stay away during rain.

9

New Mexico, Socorro County

00 :39 hrs
5 mi
142.84192 ft
Unknown

Corona Canyon is a short climb through a ravine. To reach the trail you’ll first drive a section of the Quebradas Backcountry Byway and half of the Hidden Valley Loop. There is a named obstacle “The Gatekeeper” that is a steep, loose, off-camber section that is the most difficult obstacle. This is for experienced drivers and you’ll need a vehicle with a lift, large tires, and at least one locker. Flash flooding is common in the area and rattlesnakes have also been seen so be cautious.

10

New Mexico, Taos County

01 :09 hrs
5.4 mi
739.0408 ft
Unknown

This route begins at Cabresto Lake following a wooded trail to Heart Lake. You can connect to Bull Creek and make a loop for a longer ride. Always be prepared for adverse weather and beware of avalanches. A New Mexico OHV Permit is required for all vehicles.

See more adventures..

Explore complete list