Santa Fe National Forest
Santa Fe National Forest is a moderate 100+ miles off-road trail near Santa Fe, NM, best run May - October. The gear list marks All-terrain tires, 4WD with low range and Tow strap as required, and 2"+ lift kit and Skid plates as recommended. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
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Santa Fe National Forest offers high-altitude overlanding through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains above one of America's most culturally rich cities. Forest roads wind through corridors of golden aspens, past alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, and to the base of New Mexico's highest peaks. The proximity to Santa Fe means world-class dining and galleries are just a short drive from pristine wilderness.
Fun Facts
Santa Fe is the highest state capital in the US at 7,199 feet elevation.
The Sangre de Cristo Mountains translates to 'Blood of Christ,' named for the red glow at sunset.
Santa Fe was founded in 1610, making it the oldest state capital in the US.
The Santa Fe National Forest contains the headwaters of the Rio Grande.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
🛡️ Protection
Closest campgrounds to Santa Fe National Forest:
- Cowles Campground · 7 mi (straight-line)
- Tabletop Mesa Camp · Santa Fe · 13 mi (straight-line)
- Cottonwood RV Park · Espanola · 19 mi (straight-line)
- Santa Claran Hotel & Casino · 20 mi (straight-line)
- Santa Barbara Campground · 21 mi (straight-line)
- EV Long Campground · 22 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Santa Fe, NM
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.