The best traffic-free bike rides in Sandoval County

Sandoval County offers a good selection of quiet gravel biking routes. This guide features 6 carefully selected no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring a peaceful ride away from cars.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain, reflecting Sandoval County's unique geography where the Rocky Mountains meet the desert. Routes often feature a mix of packed dirt, rough dirt, and sometimes sandy sections, especially along the Rio Grande Bosque. Higher elevation trails, like those near the Jemez Mountains and Valles Caldera, will offer more challenging climbs and descents on fire roads and unpaved county roads.

While many routes in Sandoval County offer significant elevation gains, there are options for varying skill levels. For a moderate introduction, consider the Michael Emery and Bear Canyon Loop. It's a shorter route with manageable elevation, providing a taste of the area's quiet gravel paths.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel trails in Sandoval County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the View of Redondo Peak loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano and the View of Redondo Peak – Cerro Piñon loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano, both offering stunning scenery within the Valles Caldera National Preserve.

For breathtaking views, the routes within the Valles Caldera National Preserve are highly recommended. The View of Redondo Peak loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano offers expansive vistas of the caldera, while the View of Redondo Peak – Cerro Piñon loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano provides a similar experience with a slightly different perspective. These areas are known for their dramatic landscapes and quiet roads.

Absolutely. Sandoval County is rich in natural and historical landmarks. While riding, you might be near the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, known for its unique cone-shaped formations, or the ancient Ancestral Pueblo sites at Bandelier National Monument. The Valles Caldera itself is a massive volcanic feature offering stunning backdrops.

Sandoval County enjoys abundant sunshine, making it suitable for gravel biking much of the year. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Winter can also be an option for quieter rides, especially at lower elevations, but be mindful of potential snow or colder conditions in the mountains. Summer can be hot, so early morning rides are advisable.

Yes, advanced riders will find plenty of challenges. Many routes, like the Clear Creek Campgrounds – Rock Creek Mesa loop from Rock Creek Mesa and the Gravel loop from La Cueva, are rated as difficult due to significant elevation gains and longer distances. These trails often traverse rugged, remote terrain, providing a true test of endurance and skill.

Riding on these quiet trails increases your chances of spotting local wildlife. In areas like the Valles Caldera, you might see elk, deer, coyotes, and various bird species. The more remote wilderness study areas could offer glimpses of less common desert animals. Always maintain a respectful distance and observe from afar.

Access points for many no-traffic gravel trails in Sandoval County often involve parking at designated trailheads or along unpaved county roads. For routes within national preserves or monuments, there may be specific parking lots with fees or regulations. Always check local signage and plan your parking in advance, especially for remote routes.

Sandoval County generally offers a more extensive network of remote, unpaved county and forest roads, making it ideal for truly no-traffic gravel biking. While Bernalillo County has some excellent multi-use paths and urban trails, Sandoval County's vast, diverse landscapes, including the Valles Caldera and Jemez Mountains, provide a wilder, more secluded gravel riding experience away from populated areas.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Sandoval County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning, diverse landscapes, the sense of solitude on the quiet, unpaved roads, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs that lead to incredible views. The opportunity to explore remote areas and historical sites is also frequently highlighted.