The best cycling routes around Los Alamos

Touring cycling in Los Alamos is generally considered challenging due to its high-altitude setting, averaging around 7,400 feet. The terrain features significant elevation gains through dramatic canyons, mesas, and forested peaks. All routes listed in this guide, such as the Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard – Chalk Hill loop from Buellton, are rated as difficult, requiring good physical condition.

Los Alamos experiences many sunny days, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round. However, the most pleasant times for touring cycling are typically spring and fall when temperatures are milder. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder conditions and potential snow at higher elevations. Summer can be warm, but the high altitude often provides cooler temperatures than lower desert regions.

While many routes in the immediate Los Alamos area, particularly those listed in this guide, are rated as difficult due to significant elevation changes and high altitude, the region does offer specific family-friendly biking trails. These are typically less strenuous and can be found within the extensive local trail system, providing options for various skill levels beyond the challenging touring routes.

Los Alamos offers breathtaking vistas of canyons, mesas, and forested peaks, shaped by ancient volcanic activity. You can expect panoramic views of the Pajarito Plateau, and depending on your route, you might catch glimpses of the Jemez Mountains or the expansive Valles Caldera National Preserve. The terrain itself, carved from Bandelier Tuff, provides unique geological formations.

Yes, Los Alamos and the surrounding area feature several circular touring cycling routes. For instance, the Riverbench Vineyard & Winery – Foxen Vineyard & Winery loop from Buellton is a challenging 58.8-mile loop that traverses open high-country meadowscapes and forested edges. Another option is the Benjamin Foxen Adobe Ruins – Foxen Vineyard & Winery loop from Los Alamos, a 33.1-mile loop through the Pajarito Plateau.

Parking and access points for touring cycling routes in Los Alamos are generally well-distributed, especially near trailheads and within the town itself. Many routes can be accessed from various points, including designated parking areas near the Pajarito Mountain Ski Area or within the extensive local trail network that weaves through canyons and mesas. Specific access details often depend on the chosen route.

Cycling in Los Alamos means riding at an average elevation of 7,400 feet, which can be physically demanding due to thinner air. It's often described as not for the 'faint of lung.' Cyclists should allow time for acclimatization, stay well-hydrated, and be prepared for increased exertion. The high altitude contributes to the challenging yet rewarding experience of touring cycling in the region.

Los Alamos boasts an impressive and extensive network of over 150 miles of trails, including both paved and unpaved options. This diverse system caters to various cycling preferences, weaving through pine forests, high desert, rugged canyons, and mesas. While many trails are suitable for mountain biking, touring cyclists can find routes that traverse this varied terrain, offering a blend of scenic beauty and physical challenge.

While popular routes can see more activity, Los Alamos's extensive trail system offers many opportunities to find less crowded touring cycling experiences. Exploring routes that venture deeper into the Pajarito Plateau or the edges of the Jemez Mountains can provide a more solitary ride amidst nature. The Riverbench Vineyard & Winery – Foxen Vineyard & Winery loop from Santa Barbara County Fire Department Station #23, for example, offers a challenging ride through varied terrain that might be less frequented than routes closer to town centers.

The longest touring cycling route featured in this guide is the Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard – Chalk Hill loop from Buellton. This difficult route spans 70.0 miles (112.7 km) and typically takes around 7 hours and 5 minutes to complete, featuring significant elevation gain through varied terrain.

Many outdoor areas in Los Alamos and the surrounding national forests are dog-friendly, but specific regulations can vary by trail and protected area (like Bandelier National Monument or Valles Caldera National Preserve). It's always best to check local signage or official park websites for the most current rules regarding pets on trails before heading out with your dog.

Los Alamos town itself offers various amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. While some longer touring routes might pass through or near smaller communities, many routes venture into more remote natural areas. It's advisable to plan your stops in advance and carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer or more isolated rides.