High Desert Trail System
A network of mountain-bike and hiking trails on the northwest edge of Gallup, with dozens of kilometres of singletrack crossing sandstone mesas.
The High Desert Trail System lies on the northwest edge of Gallup. Made up of several loops totalling about 40 km, it is one of New Mexico's best-known mountain-bike singletrack systems, and it is also suited to hiking and trail running. The trails cross red sandstone mesas and low pine woodland, with difficulty ranging from beginner to advanced. They offer views over Gallup and the Zuni Mountains in the distance. The main entrances are on the Mentmore side and in the northern neighbourhood, both with car parks and trail maps. Access is free, but there are no services along the way, so protect yourself from the sun and carry water.
Opening hours
Open all day (free)
Nearby sights
- Richardson's Trading Company
- Gallup History Museum (Rex Hotel)
- Historic Route 66 Downtown Gallup
- Gallup Cultural Center
- El Rancho Hotel & Motel
- Red Rock Park
- Church Rock Trail
- Navajo Nation Zoological and Botanical Park