Ruidoso – a scenic alpine village nestled beneath 12,000′ Sierra Blanca Peak in South Central New Mexico. On our way home from Austin, we took a slight detour to explore Ruidoso for a future mountain biking trip and I’m glad we did. Mountain biking Ruidoso’s Grindstone Lake Trail exceeded my expectations. Since we had time for just one ride we chose Grindstone Lake Trail because it was relatively short with easy access from town. Starting at 6899′ this is another high elevation trail similar to Park City. With all the small hills it included 1486′ of climbing in the 7.66 miles we rode so it was a work out for me, albeit a very fun one.
“fun little roller coaster trail!”
Grindstone Lake Trail – Lower Trail
Riding counter clockwise the first two miles are all uphill, but as you can see from the elevation profile, there are a lot of short dips and climbs. My husband declared it a “fun little roller coaster trail!”
Trail Highlights
It’s a little rocky. You’ll encounter everything from gravel to small rounded boulders embedded in the trail. Tree roots, tight corners going up and down with roots and rocks to maneuver through or over. On the plus side, it was hard packed with very little loose dirt or dust when we rode in October. A drop off on the left is your steady companion for a portion of the trail and there are a few switch backs to negotiate. I would categorize Grindstone Lake Trail as an intermediate trail and not for the true beginner.
Such a beautiful spot to ride! Pine trees, deer bounding up the hillside, a small, crystal clear lake. As far as traffic on the trail we saw only two hikers, but we were there on a weekday in October. The trail is marked with wooden signs and is a loop so no need to worry about losing your way. There is a longer, higher elevation Grindstone Lake Trail Extended that climbs up to Grindstone Mesa at 7899 elevation and is 11.7 miles. That turn off is about 2 miles in at the top of the climb and is marked with a trail sign.
The trail consists of single track with the exception of a very brief section of gravel double track. We started at the parking lot on Wiggins Way and rode the loop with a quick jog out to the dam near the end. From the dam we back tracked and took the lake connector to the parking lot. To sum it up, Grindstone Lake Trail is one of the most enjoyable rides I’ve done in quite a while.
Trailhead Amenities
- Trail Map
- Portable Toilets
- The Dam House at Grindstone Lake rents paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, bikes and fishing poles. They also sell bait and tackle and have food and drink available. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Other Ruidoso Mountain Biking Options
In addition to the trails around Grindstone Lake, Ski Apache has a 5.5 mile mountain biking trail that flows under Sierra Blanca Peak from the top of the gondola back to the base area of Ski Apache.
There are currently some restrictions to the area so check with Ruidoso Parks and Recreation for the latest information before you visit.
Trailhead Access
111 Wiggins Way
Ruidoso, NM 88345
Where We Stayed
Best Western Plus Ruidoso Inn is a newer, 100% smoke free hotel on Camelot Drive which is a quiet, off the beaten path location but still only a couple minutes drive from all the action in town. The front desk clerk suggested booking through your travel app since it tends to be cheaper. The rooms were very comfortable and clean and the price was reasonable. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.
Ruidoso Highlights
In short, I really enjoyed this New Mexico village. I’m a small town girl at heart so Ruidoso spoke to me in a way few places do. It feels like a tourist town that has managed to maintain a small town vibe.
There’s something for everyone here, all year:
- Skiing
- Tubing at Ruidoso Winter Park
- Hiking
- Camping
- Trail Rides
- Two Zip Lines
- Mountain Biking
- Ruidoso Downs
- Casinos
After an exhilarating day out on the slopes or trails, relax and recharge at one of Ruidoso’s many brew pubs, wine bars or authentic eateries. If you love shopping, spend an afternoon strolling through Midtown Ruidoso browsing art gallery’s, boutiques and coffee shops. If you have young children to entertain, the Flying J Ranch down the road in Alto celebrates “the days of cowboys and cattle trails” with dinner and a show. The dinner looks hearty and delicious. I might check it out myself.
It’s a true Wild West area rich in history and adventure. Who wouldn’t love a trip down Billy the Kid Trail? I’m chomping at the bit to return for more Ruidoso mountain biking fun!
