The best traffic-free bike rides in New Mexico

There are over 80 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in New Mexico, offering a wide range of experiences from easy rides to more challenging excursions. You'll find 42 easy routes, 37 moderate, and 2 difficult options to explore.

New Mexico's climate, with many clear days and low humidity, makes it suitable for outdoor activities year-round. However, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling. In summer, higher elevation areas like the Sangre de Cristo or Sandia Mountains provide cooler conditions. Winter cycling is possible, especially in lower elevations, but always check local weather and road conditions.

Yes, New Mexico offers numerous easy and family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes. The state's extensive network of dedicated bike paths, particularly in urban areas, is ideal. For example, the Paseo del Bosque Trail – Old Town Plaza, Albuquerque loop is an easy option that keeps you away from vehicle traffic. Another great choice is the Paseo del Bosque Trail – View of the Rio Grande loop, offering scenic views along the Rio Grande.

For those seeking a challenge, New Mexico's diverse topography, from high desert to alpine environments, provides plenty of options. While most routes are moderate, some offer significant climbs and distances. The Guadalupe Backcountry Byway to Sitting Bull Falls route, for instance, is classified as difficult, featuring substantial elevation gain over a long distance. Mountain ranges like the Sangre de Cristo and Sandia also offer challenging climbs on scenic byways, though these may have some traffic.

Many of New Mexico's no-traffic routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Paseo del Bosque Trail loop from Pizza Hut is a prime example of a circular route, offering a substantial distance without needing to retrace your steps. The urban trail networks in Albuquerque and Santa Fe also feature several loop options.

New Mexico, the "Land of Enchantment," is rich in natural beauty. While cycling, you might encounter views of the majestic Rio Grande Gorge, the unique gypsum dunes of White Sands National Monument, or the volcanic landscapes of the Jemez Mountains. Many routes offer panoramic vistas of canyons, mesas, and forests. For specific natural attractions, consider visiting Bandelier National Monument or Carlsbad Caverns, which are often near cycling areas.

Yes, New Mexico's rich history and culture are often intertwined with its landscapes. Many cycling routes pass through areas with ancient Indian villages, historic mining towns, and Spanish villages. For example, the Santa Fe area offers routes near cultural landmarks like The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi or the New Mexico Museum of Art. The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, while not entirely traffic-free, connects historic mining towns with cultural stops.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in New Mexico, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse and stunning landscapes, the feeling of solitude on less-traveled roads, and the well-maintained dedicated bike paths. The unique blend of high desert and alpine environments, along with the clear weather, makes for memorable rides.

While direct access to waterfalls on strictly no-traffic road cycling routes might be limited, some areas are known for them. For instance, Travertine Falls is a notable natural feature in New Mexico. The state is also home to unique geological formations like the Bisti Badlands and the Grants Lava Flow, which offer otherworldly landscapes, though dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes directly through these might be rare. The Jemez Mountain Trail (Highway 4) offers views of volcanic landscapes and sights like Battleship Rock and Soda Dam.

Many no-traffic routes, especially those within urban areas like Albuquerque's Paseo del Bosque Trail or Santa Fe's urban trail system, have designated parking areas at various access points. For routes that start further afield, it's best to check the specific route details on komoot, as they often include information on starting points and potential parking facilities. Public parks and community centers near trailheads are common places to find parking.

Yes, New Mexico offers options for longer no-traffic road cycling experiences. The Guadalupe Backcountry Byway to Sitting Bull Falls route, for example, covers over 120 kilometers, providing a significant distance for those looking for an extended ride away from traffic. Urban multi-use trails like the Paseo del Bosque Trail also offer considerable length, with various loops and connections allowing for longer rides.