Sunday, June 8, 2014

Eldorado Community Preserve Trails


Trail 101
In recognition of National Trails Day (Sat. June 8), I thought I'd spend the week posting write-ups and maps of area rec. trails. Continuing with the theme of less well known south-side trails here are the Eldorado Preserve Trails, just south of NM 285. A caveat with these lovely routes is that they're not public, they're owned by the Eldorado HOA and use is limited to Eldorado residents and their guests. If you've got a friend south of town. best to invite them out for a run then buy a round afterward at the Santa Fe Brewing tap room for recovery.

When I run out there I prefer to head out on the east loop (TR 101) which climbs to the ridgeline then banks west-southwest. Lots of sustained but manageable climbing to start with, I feel it's similar to Sun Mountain, plus a lovely controlled descent with views of Hamilton Mesa to the east and Galisteo valley to the west. The ECP trail network isn't huge like La Tierra or nearby Galisteo Basin but it's enough for a solid run of up to 60-90min with effort on the climbs.

Looking south to the Cerrillos Hills and Sandias beyond
Looking west to the trails high point and Glorieta Baldy beyond

Winding back to the trailhead - and needed hops/recovery
Related Posts:
 - Apache Canyon Loop
 - Arroyo Hondo Open Space
 - Craft Beer in New Mexico


View Eldorado Preserve Trails - Santa Fe, NM in a larger map


2 comments:

  1. Is mountain biking allowed on this trail?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, I believe cycling and horse traffic are allowed on the trails so long as they belong to Eldorado community residents or their guests. Trail regulations are posted at trailheads but not easily found online.

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