The Santa Fe Rail Trail is a must-visit if you’re in Santa Fe and looking for a place to run. Stretching 15.7 miles from the heart of Santa Fe all the way to the outskirts near Lamy, this multi-use path parallels an active railroad line the entire way. It’s one of those rare “rails beside trails” setups… so you can actually see trains.
I was lucky to go the day after a snowfall, and it was beautiful. I felt like I was in a winter wonderland. Before running on the Santa Fe Rail Trail, I had a few questions:
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Is the Santa Fe Rail Trail safe? Yes, I rarely saw people, but like any running path, you should stay vigilant. I felt safe while I was there.
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Is the Santa Fe Rail Trail hilly? Yes. It’s not your typical flat rails-to-trails route, but the hills are fun. They just feel harder at 7,000 feet.
Now let’s get into an honest review of the Santa Fe Rail Trail.
Quick Facts
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Length: 15.7 miles total
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Surface: 3.5 miles paved, 11.5 miles dirt
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Activities: Hiking, running, biking, horseback riding (on dirt sections)
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Dogs: Yes, on a leash
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Accessibility: Wheelchair- and stroller-accessible on paved section
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Motorized Vehicles: Not allowed
About the Santa Fe Rail Trail
The trail kicks off near the Santa Fe Railyard and follows the route of the Rail Runner Express train. The first 3.5 miles are paved and relatively flat, making them a solid choice for cyclists, runners easing into elevation, and families with strollers or mobility aids. This section is ideal for quick workouts or lunch break walks, especially if you’re starting near the South Capitol Rail Station.
But once you pass Rabbit Road, things shift. The pavement disappears, and the Santa Fe Rail Trail becomes a wild, winding dirt path. Don’t worry… this isn’t technical terrain. You can pretty much walk or run in any sort of shoes with cushioning….you don’t need anything trail-specific. I just used my regular road shoes, but I would do a road based workout here too. Really it’s just soft surface but you can get quality long runs in. It’s runnable and rideable, but more rustic and a lot more fun if you’re into variety. Expect rolling hills, sharp turns, and those panoramic desert views you came to New Mexico for.
I was surprised by how hilly it was, and that’s saying something because Santa Fe is already at 7,000+ feet. I ran an out and back and didn’t see a ton of people…a few families walking dogs and a couple of other runners. That could partially be because it was Easter and early on Sunday morning, but who knows. It’s a perfect spot if you need a long run, because 15+ miles one way is awesome! Like I said, you could easily run a workout here, but just know it’s hilly and the elevation is tough. If you’re looking for a place to walk, run, cycle, or hike, the Santa Fe Rail Trail is a great option.
Plus, don’t expect year-round snow. I actually ran on Easter after a surprise snowstorm and it was like a winter wonderland. Although, even then, the entire trail was clear. The fog made for cool scenery, but I was a bit sad that I couldn’t see the mountains. When we drove through Santa Fe a few days later the snow was gone and it looked like a completely different world. I wish I could have gone back just to get more of a view of the mountains. Anyway would I recommend the Santa Fe Rail trail if you need a quality run that you don’t get interrupted by cars while you’re in Santa Fe. The one drawback is while there were bathrooms at the Santa Fe Rail Trailhead, you won’t find them on the actual path, so just keep that in mind. In the summer, there isn’t a ton of shade so you’ll want to bring sun protection and water. If I lived there, I think I would be running there often.
Santa Fe Rail Trail Conclusion
The Santa Fe Rail Trail is a fun option for anyone looking for scenic views, convenience, and trail time in one outing. Whether you’re hopping on for a short jog or going long, the trail offers a little something for everyone.
Who Will Enjoy the Santa Fe Rail Trail
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You want a route that feels close to town but quickly immerses you in nature
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You’re biking, hiking, or trail running
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You’re looking for dog-friendly and family-friendly outdoor options
Who Will Not Enjoy the Santa Fe Rail Trail
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You need a consistently paved surface
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You’re seeking technical trail features or intense elevation gain
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You dislike seeing or hearing trains during your workout
You can see my Strava here and more trail runs here.
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Questions for you:
Have you been to Santa Fe?
What is your favorite rails-to-trails?