Trail Categories:
- Scenic Easy Rides
- Moderate Adventure Trails
- Technical / Built Rig Trails
Each trail card includes:
- Distance
- Difficulty
- Vehicle type (Truck / UTV / ATV)
- Time estimate
- “Why it’s awesome”
🔥 Big opportunity (this is important)
You can turn this into:
- Guided rides during High Desert Summit
- Branded trail runs (sponsored by brands)
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👉 This becomes part of the EXPERIENCE, not just extra info
Off-Road Trails Near Pine Hill, New Mexico
One of the best parts of visiting our area is the access to wide-open New Mexico terrain. From scenic backcountry drives to more adventurous mountain and canyon routes, guests can explore a variety of off-road experiences within about an hour of Pine Hill.
Below are a few trail options in the region for attendees who want to get out, enjoy the landscape, and experience the terrain around the event.
Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway
Area: El Malpais / County Road 42
Approx. Length: 33 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate scenic backcountry drive
This is one of the signature drives in the region and a standout option for visitors who want a scenic off-road experience without needing a highly built rig. The route follows the western boundary of El Malpais and passes volcanic cinder cones, open high desert, and dramatic views that make this part of New Mexico so unique.
It is a great choice for attendees looking for a memorable group drive, a photography run, or a relaxed ride through the lava country surrounding the monument.
Old Canyon FR 220
Area: Cibola National Forest
Approx. Length: 4.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Old Canyon FR 220 is a shorter trail that works well for attendees who want to squeeze in a quick ride without committing to a full day on the trail. It connects to other nearby routes and offers a mix of forest terrain, canyon travel, and occasional small water crossings depending on conditions.
This is a good choice for a shorter scenic outing or as part of a larger route through the area.
Swingle Canyon FS62
Area: Near Datil / Cibola National Forest
Approx. Length: 7.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Swingle Canyon adds a little more terrain variety and challenge while still remaining approachable for many off-road visitors. Expect loose rock, rutting, erosion, and some steeper sections depending on conditions. It offers a more adventurous feel than the purely scenic drives while staying manageable for capable high-clearance vehicles.
This route is a great fit for guests who want something a little more rugged without going deep into technical crawling territory.
Important Trail Notes
- Trail conditions can change with weather, erosion, seasonal access, and local maintenance.
- Guests should verify route conditions, fuel range, and vehicle suitability before heading out.
- Some routes are best suited for high-clearance vehicles or properly equipped off-road rigs.
- Please respect public lands, stay on designated routes, and pack out all trash.
Bonita Canyon Road
Drive Time from Event: 10–20 minutes
Best For: Quick rides, first-time exploration, sunset runs
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (conditions dependent)
Bonita Canyon Road is one of the closest and most accessible off-road options near the event. Located just off Highway 53, it offers immediate access to canyon terrain and forest roads, making it a perfect starting point for attendees looking to get off pavement quickly.
The route winds through canyon sections with a mix of dirt, gravel, and occasional wash crossings. It provides a true off-road feel without requiring a heavily built vehicle, making it ideal for trucks, SUVs, and side-by-sides.
This is a great option for shorter rides, guided group runs, or a quick evening drive after training sessions wrap up.
Directions from Event
- Head west on NM-53 from Pine Hill
- Look for local access roads leading into the canyon (Bonita Canyon area)
- Follow forest road access into the canyon system
What to Expect
- Mix of dirt and gravel road surfaces
- Light rock and erosion depending on weather
- Possible wash crossings after rain
- Great for beginner to intermediate drivers
Paxton Springs / Forest Road 50 Area
Drive Time from Event: 20–35 minutes
Best For: Half-day rides, exploration, group trail runs
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (varies by route)
The Paxton Springs area provides access to a network of forest roads and canyon routes within Cibola National Forest. Starting from Forest Road 50, riders can explore a variety of terrain, from smoother graded roads to more rugged sections as they move deeper into the system.
This is not a single trail, but a gateway into a broader riding area. It offers more flexibility and variety than shorter routes, making it ideal for extended rides and brand-led trail experiences.
With changing terrain, elevation, and scenery, this area gives attendees a more immersive off-road experience while still remaining accessible to most high-clearance vehicles.
Directions from Event
- Head west or northwest on NM-53 toward Zuni Canyon
- Locate access points leading to Forest Road 50 (FR50)
- Enter the forest road system and follow designated routes
What to Expect
- Graded dirt roads transitioning into rougher terrain
- Sand, rock, and occasional ruts
- Multiple route options and loop possibilities
- Ideal for exploration and longer group rides
Looking to explore during your visit? These trails offer a mix of scenic drives and more adventurous off-road terrain, all within reach of the event.