Trail Overview

Open mesa plains with a web-like network of dirt roads with the occasional rocky obstacle and/or ledge. The general area is wide-open with scenic views of surrounding mesas. If you navigate deep enough into this area a couple nice rocky canyons can be found. Watch out for cattle as this is a commonly used grazing range.

Photos of El Cerrito Area of Santa Fe National Forest

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Difficulty

These dirt roads are relatively tame and can be navigated by just about any vehicle, although if you are not careful you may find yourself in a more difficult section of ledges, loose rock, deep rutted sand. If unsure a little walk ahead will reveal the potential difficulty of the trail.

Technical Rating

Adrian Gallegos

Nov 10, 2025

Open

We rode part of the loop, mostly the left side near the Bernal exit. The entrance road wasn’t bad, and we parked to the left of the entrance on a side dirt trail. We found many trails off of the main trail and even had fun riding a small loop we found. The roads were dusty and had occasional ruts and rocky areas, we also ran into quite a bit of sand but it wasn’t bad. We saw a few cattle so be careful on the trail. We had a good time and it was nice that we were able to ride a lot of trails near our vehicle. Would love to do the whole loop one day.

Chris Carrasco

Feb 21, 2025

Open

Trail is open and in good condition. Some sections recently graded and maintained. Heavy dusty through most of the trail.

Connor Fitzpatrick

Jun 25, 2023

Open

Chine Owens

May 14, 2023

Open