An often underrated state for mountain biking, New Mexico’s terrain boasts several tracks that are sure to impress. With a perfect mix of desert and mountain, you’ll cruise through trails covered in pinon pines and juniper trees when mountain biking at Ski Apache. With 5.5 miles of paths and trail grades (steepness) between 6 and 8 percent, it’s perfect if you’re looking for a bike park near you with both easy and challenging rides. Are you ready to ride? Grab your summer lift ticket and experience an adrenaline-fueled mountain bike ride down the Sierra Blanca Mountains!
Mountain Biking Trails Near Ruidoso
Ski Apache is home to some of the best Ruidoso mountain biking trails set against the backdrop of the breathtaking Sierra Blanca Mountains, southern New Mexico’s highest mountain. Standing over 12,000 feet at its peak, our bike park features a unique mix of alpine forests and volcanic rock formations. The combination of elevation and varied terrain makes for a ride that you just won’t find in lower desert regions. Keep reading to learn more about each trail.
Lookout Trail
At just .25 miles, this trail is great if you’re looking to get a quick ride in or want to warm-up before riding a more challenging trail. We recommend Lookout Trail for beginner mountain bikers.
Sierra Blanca Trail
Spanning 2.5 miles at an altitude of 11,900 feet, this path is ideal for intermediate riders and spans from the bottom of the Sierra Blanca Mountains to the very top.
Crest Trail
If you’re looking for the best downhill mountain biking near you, this is the perfect trail. The Crest Trail is 3 miles of winding paths stretching from the top of the Sierra Blanca Mountains to the base. This trail is best for advanced mountain bikers due to its challenging terrain.
Before you set out on the trails, be sure to check weather conditions using our live mountain webcam to make sure the trails are open and safe to ride! We also recommend that visitors download our summer trail map to help you plan your route and locate each of our facilities at Ski Apache. Having this trail map on hand is an absolute necessity before venturing into the wilderness no matter what summer outdoor activity you’re taking part in.
Mountain Bike Rentals at Ski Apache
Don’t have your own bike? Don’t let that stop you from having fun on the trails! We have an entire fleet of mountain bike rentals available for men, women, and children. You can choose from our standard fleet or upgrade to our full suspension fleet. In addition to mountain bike rentals, we also have helmets, shin and elbow pads, and full body armor available for rent. Please be aware that mountain bikers are required to wear a helmet on the trails at all times. If you do not have your own, a helmet rental is necessary. Reservations for mountain bike rentals are not available. All rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis. Browse our rates for day passes and mountain bike rentals below.
| Mountain Biking Rates & Add-Ons | |
|---|---|
| Passes | Prices |
| Day Pass (with own bike) | $40 |
| Ski Apache Bike Rental | $55 plus a Day Pass |
| Add-Ons | |
| Bike Rental Insurance | $10 |
| Full Body Armor | $25 |
| Shin or Elbow Pads | $15 |
| Helmet | $10 |
Download your release from here and bring it with you.
Ride Responsibly
Please read the Code of Conduct pertaining to our mountain trails before mountain biking or hiking.
Mountain biking and hiking offer a range of challenges and adventures. Remember there are elements of risk in mountain biking and hiking, and common sense and personal awareness can help to create a great trail experience for everyone. By mountain biking and hiking at Ski Apache Resort, trail users understand and acknowledge that mountain biking and hiking are hazardous sports with many inherent risks and assume all risks of personal injury as well as damage to or loss of property arising from participation in these sports.
- Familiarize yourself with the trail and select routes within your ability level.
- When in doubt, walk your bike.
- Don’t ride or hike alone. Be prepared for emergencies.
- The area is not patrolled. Be self-sufficient and aware of changing weather and terrain conditions. Water, tools, extra clothing, gloves, sturdy shoes and sunscreen are recommended.
- Always yield to vehicles, and uphill and slow riders.
- Obey all trail signs and markings and only ride or hike on designated mountain biking and hiking trails. Ride, don’t slide!
- Notify the lift operator for first-aid assistance or call 575-464 3600.
- Don’t stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible to others.
- Respect the environment and wildlife.
- Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
Get Your Summer Ticket and Hit the Trail
If you’re ready to ride, Ski Apache is the place to be. With a variety of trails featuring gorgeous mountain terrain, we’re proud to be one of the best spots for mountain biking in New Mexico. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an avid mountain biker or it’s your first time on the trail, you’re bound to have fun at Ski Apache. Grab your day pass, gear up, and experience some of the best downhill mountain biking near you today!