Alien Trails – Aztec, NM
Durango Area MTB Systems
Novice-Expert
These well-marked trails are near the site of a reported UFO crash back in the 1940’s. The main 10-mile easy/moderate loop is ridden best going counter-clockwise and meanders through high desert pine/juniper forest. While on the original Alien Run Trail see if you can locate the marker of where the UFO was reportedly seen, at the east end of the Alien Loop.
The terrain is rolling, without any serious long climbs and a mix of slickrock, sand, rock and hard packed clay. In recent years Outer Limits and Area 51 to add mileage and more difficulty have been added. These trails are easy at points but also have many tech sections. The whole system is an area favorite Nov-Mar when the trails to the north are snowed in, but they can get snow from time to time. Terrain variation is what makes these trails great, and will have something for everyone.
From College Dr/Main Ave in Durango head south on HWY 550 for 29 miles, turn left on NM Rd 2651 going east for 2 miles and then right on Arch Rock Rd for 1/2 mile and trailhead on the left.