“Legit” Mountain Bike Trails are a part of the Mariposa Experience
Few communities can boast the sophisticated trail systems found at Mariposa, in Rio Rancho. With miles of trails, there are options for the most seasoned hiker or biker, “mid-level” devotees and novices. And while the Mariposa Preserve is right next door, with its thousands of acres, residents may choose to never leave their community to enjoy all the diversity in trails that they could imagine.
Mariposa trails are perfect for fatter tire bikes and often feature narrow trails with sandy sections. Smart residents, many of whom belong to resident biking clubs or simply enjoy the trails daily, prepare ahead of time by packing food, water and tools. However, because the trailheads are within Mariposa, residents are only minutes from their house should they forget something, or are ready to refuel after a vigorous ride.
Involved residents of Mariposa understand the value and natural fragility of the land and many volunteer to help maintain the trails, contributing their own time and resources. Because many of the trails can be difficult for strollers and wheelchairs to traverse, Mariposa provides access to paved paths and sidewalks (also with incredible views) in addition to the natural trails.
Below are a few suggestions to best enjoy any trail experience, while being respectful to the flourishing yet fragile ecosystem:
- Please stay on the trails. Hiking or biking off trails can cause erosion and damage to the cryptobiotic soil.
- Do not create new trails or braiding of existing trails.
- Keep pets leashed. Please be courteous to others and clean up after your pet.
- Removal of any plants, rocks or artifacts is prohibited. Do not relocate rocks.
- Be aware of flash floods during the monsoon season.
- Always be prepared.
- Leave no trace: Take only pictures, leave only footprints, and pack out what you pack in.
- Most of the trails are very narrow, built to be minimally intrusive to the environment. Only experienced mountain bikers should attempt the trails.
- Follow all signs and feather your brakes to avoid skidding.
- Don’t cut corners.
- Technical mountain bike features should only be attempted by experienced riders.
- Do not ride around them. Stop, dismount and walk over them.
- Avoid tearing up hard-packed dirt and increase your traction by riding with lower than usual tire pressure.
- Fat bikes and wider tires (at least 2.2) work best.
The best time to ride any incredible New Mexico trails is during the monsoon season after the rains have moistened the sand. Use caution, there are often cacti along the edges of trails but we encourage you to enjoy the scenery of stunning New Mexico.
See you on the trail!
Looking for a new home or custom homesite near Albuquerque? Nestled among the foothills of Rio Rancho, Mariposa is a master-planned community 30 minutes north of Albuquerque. Mariposa is designed for living naturally and offers a fully-equipped fitness center, resort-style indoor and outdoor pools, parks, sports courts, miles of trails, abundant open space and endless views at the Mariposa Preserve and surrounding mountains. Learn more at https://liveinmariposa.com/
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