South Dale Ball Trailhead -Trail Junction 39

This is the perfect start to what should be a tough ride any way you take it. The South Dale Ball trails are among the harder trails in the Santa Fe area.

The start is perfect because you begin with a fun downhill through a narrow strip lined with coyote fence. You'll then ride along an arroyo that parallels a neighborhood road for a bit. Turn right and the climb hits you in the face.

From here, it gets steep and the pain begins. There are some rocky sections, but everything is very rideable if you have the endurance. You'll be happy to hit marker 39 in hopes of easier terrain (you might not find it though - see South Dale Ball Trail (Trail Junction 39-40)).