Trail outlook
Is Horsethief Mesa rideable today?
Yes. The live verdict is DUSTY: rideable, but very dry and loose over hardpack. No measurable rain in the past week.
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Soil and terrain at Horsethief Mesa
Horsethief Mesa is a mountain bike trail network in Santa Fe & Taos, NM. The soil is loam and drains well. With little tree cover, the ground gets plenty of sun and wind. The terrain averages a 1.1° slope at 7,107 ft and mainly faces WNW. Its nearly flat slopes can hold water in flat stretches.
How these factors affect drying
SoilLoam
Loam balances drainage with water retention, so it typically takes a day or two to dry after meaningful rain.
CanopyOpen 17%
Little tree cover means full sun and wind, so these trails are among the fastest to rebound after rain.
TerrainHolds water
Water tends to pool and linger here rather than running off, so the surface can stay damp well after the weather clears.
FAQ
Can you ride Horsethief Mesa right now?
The current estimate for Horsethief Mesa is DUSTY: rideable, very dry. Rideable, but very dry. Expect dust. Rain returns in ~1 day. No measurable rain in the past week.
Is Horsethief Mesa muddy right now?
Loam currently estimates dry conditions (DUSTY). No measurable rain in the past week.
What is the soil and trail surface like at Horsethief Mesa?
Horsethief Mesa sits on loam soil that drains well. Loam balances drainage with water retention, so it typically takes a day or two to dry after meaningful rain.
How long does Horsethief Mesa take to dry after rain?
Horsethief Mesa usually needs about a day or two to dry after meaningful rain. Its terrain holds water in low spots, which slows it.
Can you ride Horsethief Mesa after rain?
Drying time depends on how much rain fell and the weather that follows. Wait until the surface is firm. Check the current estimate before heading out, and turn back if your tires leave ruts.
Does Horsethief Mesa get snow in winter?
Yes. At 7,107 ft, Horsethief Mesa typically sees winter snow and freeze-thaw that can pause riding. Loam flags a FROZEN state when the ground is snow-covered or frozen, then clears it as things thaw and dry.
What's the terrain and elevation like at Horsethief Mesa?
Horsethief Mesa sits at roughly 7,107 feet, faces mostly WNW, and averages a 1.1° grade with about 17% tree cover. It is exposed to afternoon sun, and the nearly flat terrain holds puddles in the flats.
When is the best time of year to ride Horsethief Mesa?
Snow can limit riding at Horsethief Mesa in winter, at around 7,107 feet. Spring snowmelt and fall freezes can also affect conditions. Check the current conditions before planning a ride.
Network profile
Network profile
- Soil
- Loamdrains well
- Drainage
- Holds waterdries slowly
- Tree cover
- 17%Open
- Elevation
- 7,107 ft
- Average grade
- 1.1°
- Predominant aspect
- WNW-facing