The best road cycling routes around North Valley

Road cycling in North Valley is characterized by its river valley terrain, with routes often following the Rio Grande and passing through cottonwood bosques. The landscape is generally flat to gently rolling, offering distant views of the Sandia Mountains. You'll find a mix of dedicated multi-use trails and roads that traverse agricultural areas and residential zones.

There are over 60 road cycling routes available in North Valley, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 800 road cycling tours in the area.

Yes, North Valley offers several routes suitable for beginners. There are 27 easy routes available, providing flat terrain and shorter distances, such as the Paseo del Bosque Trail loop from Alameda/Rio Grande Open Space, which is just over 10 miles long.

For advanced cyclists seeking a challenge, North Valley has 3 difficult routes. One notable option is the Native American Statue – Lomos Altos loop from Montaño, which covers over 67 miles and features significant elevation gain.

Many routes in North Valley offer scenic views of the Rio Grande and the distant Sandia Mountains. You can also explore the Paseo del Bosque Trail, which runs alongside the river. Other nearby attractions include the Petroglyphs at Rinconada Canyon Trail and the Rio Grande Sandy Beach Access.

Yes, you can cycle to areas near historical sites. Old Town Plaza, Albuquerque and Old Town Albuquerque are notable historical areas that can be explored in conjunction with your ride.

Yes, many road cycling routes in North Valley are designed as loops. Popular examples include the Juan Tabo Cabin – Deer in the Bushes loop from Montaño and the Paseo del Bosque Trail – Paseo del Bosque Trail loop from Montaño.

Given the desert climate often associated with 'North Valley' regions like Phoenix, Arizona, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling. These seasons provide comfortable conditions to enjoy the desert landscapes and river valley routes without extreme heat or cold.

Yes, the generally flat and multi-use paths, particularly along the Rio Grande, make North Valley suitable for family-friendly cycling. Routes like the Paseo del Bosque Trail loop from Alameda/Rio Grande Open Space are excellent for families looking for an easy and scenic ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 14 reviews. Reviewers often praise the scenic riverine paths, open agricultural lands, and the distant views of the Sandia Mountains, highlighting the diverse terrain suitable for different ability levels.

While specific parking locations vary by route, many trailheads and parks along the Rio Grande and within residential areas offer parking facilities. For routes starting from Montaño, you can typically find parking in designated areas nearby.

Public transport options may vary, but major urban centers like Albuquerque, which borders the North Valley, often have bus services that can get you close to some of the main cycling arteries, such as the Paseo del Bosque Trail. It's advisable to check local transit schedules and bike-on-bus policies for specific access points.