The best traffic-free bike rides in Los Alamos County
5.0
(2)
10
riders
3
rides
Gravel biking in Los Alamos County offers routes through unique volcanic landscapes characterized by mesas, deep canyons, and the prominent Valles Caldera. The Pajarito Plateau, where Los Alamos is situated, features ash and lava flows carved by runoff from the Jemez Mountains, creating a series of long, thin mesas separated by canyons. This environment provides diverse terrain, ranging from ponderosa pine stands to areas with basalt, tuff, and loose gravel surfaces. The region's extensive trail network includes forest roads and doubletrack suitable for no traffic gravel bike trails.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails in Los Alamos County
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is View of Redondo Peak loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano, a 31.0 miles (49.9 km) trail that takes 4 hours 13 minutes to complete. This route traverses the high-elevation meadows and volcanic terrain of the Valles Caldera National Preserve.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is View of Redondo Peak – Cerro Piñon loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano, a moderate 22.3 miles (35.8 km) path. It offers varied terrain through volcanic landscapes and provides views of the surrounding mesas and canyons.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Cerro Piñon – View of Redondo Peak loop from Cerro la Jara, a 26.7 miles (42.9 km) trail leading through volcanic landscapes and ponderosa pine stands, often completed in about 4 hours 10 minutes.
- Gravel biking in Los Alamos County is defined by volcanic landscapes, deep canyons, and high-elevation meadows, with surfaces ranging from compacted dirt to loose gravel. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to difficult.
- The routes in Los Alamos County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 10 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Los Alamos County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
riders
49.9km
04:13
480m
480m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
35.8km
03:02
380m
380m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
1
riders
42.9km
04:10
860m
860m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Los Alamos County
Tips from the Community
This junction gives you a great view of Redondo Peak and the valley in between. This area does have private houses, so it's important to stay on the trail while taking in the views.
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Valles Caldera National Preserve in northern New Mexico is a 13.7-mile-wide volcanic caldera formed by a massive eruption approximately 1.2 million years ago. Now the area is full of mountains, meadows, and interesting geothermal features.
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This junction gives runners a great view of Redondo Peak and the valley in between. This area does have private houses, so it's important to stay on the trail while taking in the views.
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This junction gives hikers a great view of Redondo Peak and the valley in between. This area does have private houses, so it's important to stay on the trail while taking in the views.
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The Valles Caldera, a twenty kilometer wide circular depression, is a geological gem created by a volcanic eruption that took place around 1.25 million years ago. Today it is a protected area that covers over 39,000 hectares and attracts around 120,000 annual visitors who wish to hike, horseback ride, mountain bike, camp or fish for trout, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Located just 22 kilometers west of downtown Los Alamos, the Valles Caldera National Preserve is also a popular hunting destination, as it claims the second largest elk population in the state, and more 400 wild turkeys live in the reserve from April to December. Other wildlife, such as prairie dogs, black bears, and golden eagles, also call this wilderness home.
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The Valles Caldera, a twenty kilometer wide circular depression, is a geological gem created by a volcanic eruption that took place around 1.25 million years ago. Today it is a protected area that covers over 39,000 hectares and attracts around 120,000 annual visitors who wish to hike, horseback ride, mountain bike, camp or fish for trout, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Located just 22 kilometers west of downtown Los Alamos, the Valles Caldera National Preserve is also a popular hunting destination, as it claims the second largest elk population in the state, and more 400 wild turkeys live in the reserve from April to December. Other wildlife, such as prairie dogs, black bears, and golden eagles, also call this wilderness wilderness home.
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Valles Caldera (or Jemez Caldera) is a 13.7-mile (22.0 km) wide volcanic caldera in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico created by spectacular volcanic eruption of the Southwest's supervolcano about 1.25 million years ago. Hot springs, streams, fumaroles, natural gas seeps and volcanic domes dot the caldera floor landscape. The highest point in the caldera is Redondo Peak, an 11,253-foot (3,430 m) resurgent lava dome located entirely within the caldera. Also within the caldera are several grass valleys [Valle(s)] the largest of which is Valle Grande, the only one accessible by a paved road. Much of the caldera is within the Valles Caldera National Preserve, a unit of the National Park System. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valles_Caldera http://www.nps.gov/vall/index.htm
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Valles Caldera (or Jemez Caldera) is a 13.7-mile (22.0 km) wide volcanic caldera in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico created by spectacular volcanic eruption of the Southwest's supervolcano about 1.25 million years ago. Hot springs, streams, fumaroles, natural gas seeps and volcanic domes dot the caldera floor landscape. The highest point in the caldera is Redondo Peak, an 11,253-foot (3,430 m) resurgent lava dome located entirely within the caldera. Also within the caldera are several grass valleys [Valle(s)] the largest of which is Valle Grande, the only one accessible by a paved road. Much of the caldera is within the Valles Caldera National Preserve, a unit of the National Park System. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valles_Caldera , http://www.nps.gov/vall/index.htm
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Los Alamos County?
Komoot features three dedicated no-traffic gravel bike routes in Los Alamos County, all offering unique experiences within the Valles Caldera National Preserve. These routes range from moderate to difficult, providing options for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic gravel bike trails in Los Alamos County?
The terrain in Los Alamos County is shaped by its volcanic past, featuring a mix of ash and lava flows. You'll encounter surfaces ranging from smooth service roads, like sections of the Los Alamos Reservoir Road, to more challenging paths with basalt, tuff, and loose gravel, such as parts of the Lower Water Canyon Trail. Expect varied landscapes, including mesas, canyons, and high-elevation meadows.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel bike routes in Los Alamos County?
Yes, all the featured no-traffic gravel bike routes in Los Alamos County are circular. For example, you can explore the View of Redondo Peak loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano, the View of Redondo Peak – Cerro Piñon loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano, or the Cerro Piñon – View of Redondo Peak loop from Cerro la Jara, all offering scenic loops through the region's unique landscapes.
What is the best time of year for quiet gravel biking in Los Alamos County?
Los Alamos County generally experiences abundant sunny days throughout the year due to its high altitude. Spring and fall often provide ideal temperatures for gravel biking. While summer is also popular, be mindful of afternoon thunderstorms. Winter can be beautiful, but some higher elevation trails, especially within the Valles Caldera, may be affected by snow and ice.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
The trails offer stunning views of the Valles Caldera, a massive volcanic depression. You can also find impressive geological formations like the Los Alamos Natural Arch and various Rock Formations. Viewpoints such as the White Rock Canyon Overlook and North Bench Overlook provide expansive panoramas of the canyons and mesas.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel biking options in Los Alamos County?
While the featured routes are moderate to difficult, sections of trails like the Los Alamos Reservoir Road are known for being smooth service roads closed to public vehicles, making them potentially suitable for families looking for a less challenging, traffic-free experience. Always check the specific trail conditions and elevation profiles to ensure it matches your family's abilities.
Can I expect to see wildlife while gravel biking in Los Alamos County?
Yes, the Valles Caldera National Preserve, where many of these trails are located, is known for its abundant wildlife. You have a good chance of spotting elk, wild turkeys, and various bird species, especially in the high-elevation meadows. Always maintain a respectful distance and observe wildlife from afar.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Los Alamos County?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Los Alamos County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning volcanic landscapes, the quiet and secluded nature of the trails, and the unique challenge presented by the varied terrain and elevation changes.
Are there any historical sites near the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
Yes, Los Alamos County is rich in history. While biking, you might be near sites like the Ashley Pond Park or the Ancestral Pueblo Dwelling and the Romero Cabin. The region is also a gateway to Bandelier National Monument, which protects Ancestral Pueblo dwellings carved into rock cliffs, offering a deeper dive into the area's past.
What are the typical elevation changes on these no-traffic gravel bike routes?
Given the volcanic and mountainous terrain of Los Alamos County, you can expect significant elevation changes on these routes. For instance, the Cerro Piñon – View of Redondo Peak loop from Cerro la Jara involves over 860 meters of ascent and descent, providing a challenging and rewarding ride with panoramic views.
Are there specific trails or roads known for being car-free or having very low traffic for gravel biking?
Yes, the focus of this guide is on no-traffic routes. Within the Valles Caldera National Preserve, many forest roads and doubletracks are closed to public vehicles, offering excellent car-free gravel biking. The Los Alamos Reservoir Road is specifically mentioned as a smooth service road closed to public vehicles, providing a quiet riding experience.
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