Craving adrenaline in the cool pines of the southern Rockies? Ruidoso, New Mexico, is your ultimate adventure sports destination. From mountain biking to zip-lining, off-roading, races, and more, this friendly mountain town delivers year-round action for both first-timers and seasoned adventurers.
Mountain Biking Bliss
Ruidoso is a hidden gem for mountain bikers. The area boasts miles of sustainable trails suitable for every skill level—gentle beginner routes to heart-pounding descents for the experienced. Highlights include:
- Grindstone Trail System: An expansive network beloved for its flowy climbs, technical switchbacks, and lake views.
- Fort Stanton Trail System: Over 90mi of trails open to bikers, hikers, and equestrians alike, winding through the beautiful Fort Stanton–Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area.
Local shops offer rentals, guided tours, and insider tips for navigating these scenic routes.
Tour de Ruidoso: New Mexico’s Scenic Road Cycling Challenge
The Tour de Ruidoso is a premier annual road cycling event that draws riders from across the region to challenge themselves on some of the most scenic and demanding mountain roads in New Mexico. Riders can choose from several distances—including the renowned century ride—that traverse high-altitude routes through pine forests, sweeping valleys, and historic byways. The event typically takes place each September and is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery, friendly atmosphere, and well-supported rest stops. Whether you’re a serious cyclist or a recreational rider seeking a memorable challenge, Tour de Ruidoso’s blend of beauty and endurance makes it a must-experience event for the cycling community.
Horseback Riding: Ride the Old West
Channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl by exploring Ruidoso’s rugged landscape on horseback. Stables such as the Inn of the Mountain Gods Stables and others offer guided rides that traverse streams, meadows, and forested hillsides—an authentic way to experience the area’s natural serenity.
Zip-lining in the Pines
Soar above the treetops on some of the Southwest’s most thrilling zip lines:
- Wind Rider ZipTour at Ski Apache: One of the longest zip lines in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Sierra Blanca range (check for seasonal openings).
- Winter Park’s Screaming Eagle Zip Line: Family-friendly adventure combining zip-lining, mountain tubing, and a mountain coaster for a full day of fun.
Off-Roading and ATV Tours
Feel the rush of navigating forest roads and rugged hills by ATV or OHV. Several outfitters offer rentals, guided tours, and access to designated off-road trails across Lincoln County—including dramatic overlooks and hidden picnic spots.
XTERRA Ruidoso (August 15–17, 2025)
The world-class XTERRA series comes to Ruidoso to debut its new off-road triathlon venue ahead of the World Championship in 2026! The festival weekend at Grindstone Lake includes:
- Full & Sprint Triathlons (swim, mountain bike, trail run)
- 10K Trail Run and Kids Sprint
- Outdoor expo, music, local vendors, family activities at Wingfield Park
- Opportunities to qualify for XTERRA World Championships and Youth Tour
Ruidoso Grindstone Trail Runs (August 23, 2025)
Celebrate the 11th anniversary of this beloved event with three trail racing distances (13.8mi, 8.5mi, 4mi) starting and finishing at scenic Wingfield Park. Enjoy commemorative swag, food, music, and a post-race party, all while supporting adaptive sports.
IRONMAN Comes to Ruidoso in 2026
Ruidoso will make history in 2026 as it hosts New Mexico’s very first IRONMAN-branded triathlon event. The IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso New Mexico is scheduled for July 11–12, 2026, and promises to bring athletes from around the world to this vibrant mountain town. This epic “festival weekend” of endurance racing will feature not just the signature IRONMAN 70.3 distance—which includes a 1.2-mile swim in the crystal waters of Grindstone Lake, a 56-mile bike ride through the sweeping landscapes around Hondo, and a 13.1-mile scenic run through Midtown Ruidoso and local neighborhoods—but also Olympic and sprint triathlon races as part of the celebration.
Being selected for an IRONMAN event is a major milestone for Ruidoso, placing the community on a global sporting stage and providing a huge boost to athletic tourism and the local economy. Both elite and amateur triathletes will have a chance to compete for world championship slots, while their families, friends, and fans can experience the welcoming hospitality and stunning scenery that define the Sierra Blanca region. According to local officials, the IRONMAN festival weekend will be more than just a race: it will be a celebration of endurance, community, and the adventurous spirit of the Southwest.
Make It a Complete Stay: The Roost Ruidoso Vacation Home
After a day of adventure, relax and recharge at The Roost Ruidoso. With cozy mountain charm, family-friendly amenities, and close proximity to Ruidoso’s top outdoor attractions, it’s the perfect basecamp for thrill-seekers and relaxation fans alike.
Official Adventure & Event Links
- Outdoor Activities/Visitor Info: Visit Ruidoso Outdoor Recreation / Discover Ruidoso – Outdoor Adventures
- Mountain Biking: Pinnacle Trail Systems / Grindstone Trail System Info
- Horseback Riding: Inn of the Mountain Gods Stables, Fort Stanton Trailhead
- Zip Lining: Ski Apache Wind Rider ZipTour, Ruidoso Winter Park
- Off-Roading: Backcountry Attitudes Adventure Tours
- Sports Events: XTERRA Ruidoso, XTERRA Ruidoso Parks & Rec, Ruidoso Grindstone Trail Runs Signup, Ruidoso Runfest Calendar, Ironman Ruidoso
With unbeatable terrain, friendly competition, and mountain hospitality, Ruidoso is calling all adventure seekers this summer and beyond—make your memories, then unwind in style at The Roost Ruidoso!