Dale Ball Trails
Hiking area · Santa Fe ·

Dale Ball Trails

Hiking area · Santa Fe ·

23.4 miles of interconnected desert trails with mountain views

well marked trails
great views
picacho peak
close to town
interconnected trails
desert trails
parking
plant and animal species
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by Photo courtesy of Kate Donnelly
Dale Ball Trails by Photo courtesy of Kate Donnelly
Dale Ball Trails by Photo courtesy of Kate Donnelly
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null
Dale Ball Trails by null

Information

Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA Get directions

Information

Static Map

Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA Get directions

+1 505 955 6977
sfct.org

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Last updated

Dec 20, 2025

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@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,700 Cities

"The popular Dale Ball Trails system offers 23.4 miles of interconnected high-altitude desert trailsin the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where piñon and juniper forest greet sturdy ponderosa trees as you ascend to higheraltitudes. The systempassespretty close to town, and navigation is simplethanks to clear trail markers.If you're so inclined, follow the steepest path along the ridge to the top of Picacho Peak.The rewardfor your hike is a breathtaking 360-degree view."

New Mexico's Dramatic Natural Scenery
Photo courtesy of Kate Donnelly
Dale Ball Trails
@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,700 Cities

"The popular Dale Ball Trails system offers 23.4 miles of interconnected high-altitude desert trailsin the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where piñon and juniper forest greet sturdy ponderosa trees as you ascend to higheraltitudes. The systempassespretty close to town, and navigation is simplethanks to clear trail markers.If you're so inclined, follow the steepest path along the ridge to the top of Picacho Peak.The rewardfor your hike is a breathtaking 360-degree view."

The Best Trails and Hikes Around Santa Fe
Photo courtesy of Kate Donnelly
Dale Ball Trails
@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,700 Cities

"The popular Dale Ball Trails system offers 23.4 miles of interconnected high-altitude desert trailsin the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where piñon and juniper forest greet sturdy ponderosa trees as you ascend to higheraltitudes. The systempassespretty close to town, and navigation is simplethanks to clear trail markers.If you're so inclined, follow the steepest path along the ridge to the top of Picacho Peak.The rewardfor your hike is a breathtaking 360-degree view."

A Perfect Weekend in Santa Fe
Photo courtesy of Kate Donnelly
Dale Ball Trails

Noemí

Google
So peaceful! Stunningly beautiful! Very well maintained trails with clear signage. I overestimated my capacity to get down the mountain before dark, and was so grateful that some angel left a headlamp on trail marker #34 - whoever you are, you saved me in more ways than you could ever know! I don’t usually write reviews for trails, selfishly bc I want to keep the secrets safe, but I’m just so grateful to the community that hikes here, and the person who had enough foresight and generosity to leave me a light. Thank you!!!

Foodie W.

Google
This is an incredible network of trails in the mountains within Santa Fe itself. The trail system has several entry points and small parking lots, with the largest one by St. John’s. All trail access points have great topo maps, are easy to follow, and are very well maintained. The criss cross patterns allow hikers to choose the length and difficulty of their trails, with plenty variety that facilitates having a different hike during multiple visits. Seldom busy. Offers fantastic views of the town and the gorgeous landscapes around it.

M S.

Google
A water shed and an ecotone rich with plant & animal species. Beware of many ant piles all over the trail! Beautiful stream along one side of the trail. This reserve is very close to the plaza in downtown santa fe. I give it 3 stars because it's not much of a hike and has too many plants/ tall grass on narrow walking paths full of red ants.

James G.

Google
Awesome hike a little challenging when we went up to, I know I’m misspelling it but the top trail called pikachu. But well worth it!

Sarah Van R.

Google
Moderately difficult, 3.3 mile Loop trail with distant views, large granite boulders, steam crossings and historical signage about the water diversion piping. Look like.

Tracy T.

Google
What a boon to the people of Santa Fe to have this trail system right in their own backyard! Very well marked trails suitable for hiking, mountain bikes or horses. Pet friendly. Bring water, sunscreen and snacks if you want to do a longer hike. Parking is ample. Everyone we encountered on the trail was courteous and friendly. Highly recommend.

Linda V.

Google
Nice views. Perfect late afternoon hike and easy parking.

Julie K

Google
Nice trails a short distance from town. Be aware of vehicle break ins. 10/13/25 - the vehicle next to us had their vehicle broken into and the lot was packed. Their window was shattered and items stolen. We saw a shady woman walking around when we entered and the vitctims saw the same person right before they entered the trail and were only gone about 15 mins. They definitely need cameras and police presence on the trail parking areas. It's sad that you have to worry about things like this while trying to enjoy nature. I hope the town does something since this happens frequently.
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Jeremy H.

Yelp
This is a nice easy to moderate trail. Plenty of trees and great views to be had. It is not far from the plaza and many other great Santa Fe destinations. There is a good sized parking lot. The markings and posting are great and the trail is easy to follow. It is definitely recommended if you are looking for a great way to spend a morning or afternoon in nature.
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Scott L.

Yelp
This is the closest trail to Downtown Santa Fe. It is amazingly well marked, allowing hikers of many different abilities to plan a short or long hike which will include extraordinary vistas, natural beauty with flora and fauna.

Lydia K.

Yelp
Too much snow for hiking in March but beautiful drive and location look forward to rerunning after snow melts
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Melissa C.

Yelp
Best trails we've hiked in years. The trails are marked incredibly well. They crisscross so you can hike tons of variations for long or short hikes. The trails are well maintained. The views are gorgeous and the way the trails wind around gives you a of variety of views.