Elephant Rock

Elephant Rock is a motorcycle-only trail network in the Questa Ranger District of the Carson National Forest, on the mountainside just off NM 38 between Questa and Red River. The trails follow a web of 1960s mining and fire roads that were rebuilt and trimmed down for two wheels, so expect rocky, decomposed-granite tread more than smooth forest loam. The map labels them single track, but much of it rides like narrow old road. Sources describe roughly 35 miles in total, in several loops that run from wide and moderate to tight and technical, and the system is aimed at intermediate and advanced riders.

Volunteers with the Enchanted Circle Off-Highway group, with grant support that included the Backcountry Discovery Routes, reworked the network and finished it around 2020. Four narrow, bike-width entry points keep four-wheeled vehicles out. According to press coverage, the longest loop, about 10.5 miles, was cut wide with a mini-excavator for heavier adventure bikes and is the mildest riding. A roughly 10-mile loop suits lighter bikes and stronger riders. The tightest, most technical trails were hand-built for lightweight enduro bikes. Trail 195 heads north toward Cabresto Lake and is rated harder because of steep, rugged sections. From Cabresto Lake, forest roads lead east toward Greenie Peak. The elevation runs from about 8,400 to 10,300 feet.

Getting there

From Taos, take NM 522 north about 37 miles, then turn east on NM 38 toward Red River. Drive past Fawn Lakes Campground, and about 0.3 miles beyond it look for a dirt road on the left (north). Follow it about a quarter mile to the staging area beside the water treatment plant. Parking is limited, so arrive early on busy weekends. Elephant Rock Campground sits on NM 38 about 3 miles west of Red River, and Fawn Lakes Campground adjoins the trail system. The coordinates on this page are the Forest Service's listing for Elephant Rock Campground, which is close to the trails, not the staging lot itself. Red River has gas, food, and lodging.

Fees, permits, and rules

The trails are motorcycle-only. ATVs, side-by-sides, and street-legal 4x4s are not allowed. A 2020 report called the system fee-free, and no parking or riding fee is listed elsewhere. A spark arrestor and a 96 dB sound limit apply, and riders must stay on the trail. New Mexico OHV rules apply, including a state permit for OHV use. Check current requirements for your bike and home state with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish before you go. Campgrounds charge fees. The Forest Service lists Elephant Rock Campground at $22 per night for a campsite, with a senior or Access pass discount.

When to ride

At about 8,500 feet the trails hold snow into late spring and close with winter weather. RiderPlanet lists New Mexico OHV permit dates of May 1 through December 31. Summer riding is cooler than the valleys but afternoon storms are common in the mountains, and the rocky surface can be slick when wet. Check with the Questa Ranger District at 575-586-0520 for current conditions, fire restrictions, and closures before you go.