Moon Mountain

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

Features Views

There is a toilet at the trailhead.

This is a new (in summer 2024) machine-made, bench-cut trail that loops through the ponderosa pines of the Moon Mountain recreation complex in Ruidoso, New Mexico. The trail was apparently made for ATVs (it's 8 feet wide for its entire length), but it's open only to cyclists, hikers, and horseback riders. The uphill grades are mostly moderate. The trail is rocky but not technical.

The trail is bi-directional, but counterclockwise is easier and more fun for riding.

From the parking area, the trail heads north and west, past a disc golf tee pad and up the first climb. Several two-tracks crisscross at the top of the climb; all lead to the same general location, but the "official" trail appears to be the leftmost one. The trail declines through a shallow valley, then makes a sharp right turn and begins to climb. The trail then ascends steadily for the next 1.25 miles.

At 1.5 miles, a sign reading "Summit Loop" points off to the left. Follow the left fork (the right fork is a short, 0.27-mile side trail that rejoins the main trail a little further along). At the next intersection, turn right (if you turn left, you'll end up on the so-called Summit Loop--which is not at the summit! The Summit Loop has a good view to the east, but the panoramic view at the real summit is much better). Finally, at the third intersection, stay straight/left (the right fork is where the side trail described above rejoins the main trail).

Follow the trail to the summit at ~2.23 miles. Enjoy the panoramic views!

The trail now descends to the north and west. 0.6 miles from the top, the trail again intersects the "Summit Loop" trail. Turn hard right/south. After a short flat section, the trail drops sharply through a disc golf course. Several switchbacks lead back to the parking area.