Pipeline Road

Embark on the Guaje Ridge and Perimeter Trail Loop for a classic Los Alamos mountain biking adventure. This moderate route spans 15.8 miles (25.4 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 2942 feet (897 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 59 minutes to complete. You'll experience diverse landscapes, from lush sections to areas showing signs of past fires, with the climb up Pipeline Road offering excellent views before you hit the fast and twisty singletrack of Guaje Ridge.

For the best experience on this remote and challenging trail, plan your visit for late May or early June. This timing helps you avoid brushy conditions and thorns that can make the ride less enjoyable. Be prepared for the trail's technical challenges, especially in the lower parts of Guaje Ridge, which may include sections with significant erosion or even require some hike-a-bike if you're not highly proficient.

This loop is nestled within the Santa Fe National Forest, providing a true backcountry feel. It's known for its unique blend of natural beauty and demanding terrain, making it a standout mountain biking destination in the region. The mix of unburned forest and fire-affected zones tells a story of resilience and offers a varied backdrop to your ride.

Get ready for a moderate mountain biking adventure on the Quemazon, Guaje Ridge, and Perimeter Loop, covering 12.2 miles (19.6 km) with a significant 2694 feet (821 metres) of elevation gain. This route offers a diverse ride, starting with the Quemazon Trail where you'll navigate volcanic tuff rock and sandstone, opening up to great views as you climb the mesa. Later, the Perimeter Trail provides a cooler, forested environment, shaded by towering pines as it skirts the town, offering a different feel after the more exposed sections. You can expect to complete this challenging loop in about 2 hours and 28 minutes, making it a solid ride near Los Alamos.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Guaje Ridge section is best ridden in late May or early June, as it can become severely overgrown with thorn bushes later in the summer. This exposed part of the trail can also get very hot, so always bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. Navigation can be tricky, especially when trying to find the entry to Guaje Ridge, so make sure you have a reliable map or GPS device to guide you.

This loop takes you through the Santa Fe National Forest, offering a sense of remoteness with wide-open vistas on the rugged Guaje Ridge Trail. It's a great way to experience the varied landscapes of the area, from the open mesa climbs to the shaded forest paths. The combination of different trail characteristics makes this route a notable option for mountain bikers seeking a varied and engaging ride.