The best traffic-free bike rides in Pecos Wilderness

No, bicycles are generally prohibited within the designated Pecos Wilderness area itself, as it is a protected wilderness where motorized and mechanized vehicles are not allowed. However, the broader Pecos region and the surrounding Santa Fe National Forest offer excellent opportunities for touring cycling on scenic roads and designated bike trails.

The Pecos region, particularly around the Santa Fe National Forest, offers scenic road cycling opportunities on quiet highways and designated bike trails. These routes often feature high-desert terrain, sandstone canyons, and alpine forests, providing a diverse cycling experience. For example, you can explore routes like the Santa Fe Canyon Preserve – Santa Fe Plaza loop.

This guide features a selection of 3 no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Pecos region, ranging from moderate to difficult in difficulty. These routes are carefully chosen to offer a great experience outside the restricted wilderness area.

The routes currently featured in this guide are rated as moderate or difficult. There are no easy routes listed here. For example, the Santa Fe Canyon Preserve – Santa Fe Plaza loop is considered moderate, while routes like the Tano Point – Old Santa Fe loop are difficult.

The best time for touring cycling in the Pecos area is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the high-altitude environments are more accessible. Autumn is particularly beautiful with the changing colors of the aspens.

Yes, all the touring cycling routes highlighted in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Sierra del Norte Trailhead – Santa Fe Open Space loop and the Tano Point – Palace of the Governors loop.

The touring cycling routes in the Pecos region can involve significant elevation changes due to the mountainous terrain. For instance, the Sierra del Norte Trailhead – Santa Fe Open Space loop features an elevation gain of over 650 meters, making for a challenging ride.

While cycling is restricted within the Pecos Wilderness itself, the surrounding area offers cultural and natural attractions. You can visit the Pecos National Historical Park, which includes Pecos Pueblo ruins and a Spanish mission church, accessible by bike on designated roadways. For natural beauty, you can enjoy views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Pecos River valley from the cycling routes. Highlights like Tesuque Peak are visible from many points in the region.

Yes, the touring cycling routes often start from locations with available parking. For example, the Sierra del Norte Trailhead – Santa Fe Open Space loop begins and ends at the Sierra del Norte Trailhead, which typically offers parking facilities.

The Pecos region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars based on user feedback. Cyclists often praise the stunning mountain landscapes, the sense of solitude on less-trafficked roads, and the diverse ecosystems encountered on their rides.

Within the Santa Fe National Forest, cycling is generally permitted on designated bike trails and administrative roads. At Pecos National Historical Park, bicycles are allowed on designated parking areas and roadways, but they are prohibited on all trails within the park. Always check local signage and regulations before riding.