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ForestMatters, LLC

Borrego Trail

Santa Fe National Forest, New Mexico · 3 min read

Distance
5 mi
Elevation Gain
900 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
March through November
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Views of the Sangre de Cristo foothills from the upper trail
  • Early spring and late fall accessibility when higher trails are snowbound
  • Piñon-juniper woodland transitioning to ponderosa forest
  • Close proximity to Santa Fe for quick half-day hikes
  • Connects to extended trail network on the lower mountain flanks

Overview

The Borrego Trail offers a moderate foothills hike close to Santa Fe, reaching into the lower edge of Santa Fe National Forest without requiring the drive to the ski basin. The trailhead sits at approximately 7,400 feet in piñon-juniper woodland, lower than most forest trailheads in the area. This makes it one of the earlier-opening trails in the forest and a useful option from late fall through early spring when the upper mountain routes are icy or snowed in.

The trail climbs through a classic Southwest elevation sequence: piñon and juniper in the lower drainage, transitioning to ponderosa pine in the middle elevations, with the distant Sangre de Cristo summits visible to the north and east. The route is unshaded in the lower section, making early morning or late afternoon starts worthwhile on hot summer days. The Santa Fe foothills are drier than the high mountains, and water is not reliably available on the trail; carry what you need from the start.

This trail pairs well with the nearby Rio en Medio Trail for a multi-trail day exploring the Santa Fe foothills.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2: Piñon-Juniper Zone. The trail begins in open woodland with the Sangre de Cristo foothills visible ahead. The tread is sandy and rocky in the lower section. The trail climbs steadily without dramatic switchbacks. Views of Santa Fe and the Rio Grande Valley appear to the southwest at around mile 1.

Miles 2 to 2.5: Ponderosa Transition. The trail enters ponderosa pine forest above mile 2. The shade is welcome on hot days. The upper trail reaches a ridge with views of the higher peaks to the north before the maintained trail ends at mile 2.5. Connection trails to the upper trail network begin here.

When to Visit

March through November covers the useful window. Summer heat in the lower section makes early morning the best approach from June through August. Fall is excellent: lower visitor numbers, comfortable temperatures, and lingering color in the piñon-juniper. This trail stays accessible in mild winters at lower elevations.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry the following for Borrego:

  • Water (no source on trail; carry the full amount needed for the round trip)
  • Sunscreen and a hat (the lower section is fully exposed)
  • Sturdy footwear for the rocky lower tread

Practical Details

No permit is required (as of 2026). No trailhead facilities. Dogs are welcome. The trail is managed by the Española Ranger District of Santa Fe National Forest.

Getting There

From downtown Santa Fe, take Artist Road (which becomes NM Highway 475) north. The Borrego Trailhead pullout is on the right side of the road approximately 2 miles north of the Cerro Gordo Road intersection. The drive from the Santa Fe plaza is about 15 minutes. Parking is limited at the small unpaved pullout; arrive early on weekends.

Trailhead Parking

Borrego Trailhead on Artist Road (NM 475) north of Santa Fe. Small unpaved pullout for 6-8 vehicles. No fee.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Borrego Trail good for early season hiking?
Yes. The lower elevation of the Borrego Trailhead (approximately 7,400 feet) means this trail opens earlier in spring than the upper mountain routes. It is frequently accessible in March and April while snow still covers the Windsor Trail and upper Pecos Wilderness routes.
Does Borrego connect to other trails?
The Borrego Trail connects to the Rio en Medio Trail and other trails in the lower mountain trail network. With a car shuttle, multi-trail combinations are possible. Ask at the Española Ranger District office for current connector trail maps.
Is this trail rocky?
The lower section through piñon-juniper is on sandy and rocky tread. The upper ponderosa section is more forgiving. Sturdy footwear is worthwhile.
Is Borrego good for trail running?
Yes. The moderate grade and relatively consistent footing make Borrego a popular trail running route for Santa Fe area runners. The trail is wide enough in most sections to comfortably pass other users.