Meeting Time / Location:
Sunday May 02, 2021
• 9am at KTAO to carpool, or
• 10am near WEST trailhead (in Wild and Scenic Rivers rec area – see details below.)
Ride Type:
• Intermediate with some expert technical options
Ride Stats:
• ~10-15 miles, ~1200+ ft climbing, ~3-4 hours riding
Detailed Description:
This is an intermediate level trail ride with some expert level sections. The expert sections include technical single track and steep climbing. The ride includes technical fun single track, flowing trail sections, and challenging climbs.
Riders can meet at the Solar Center parking lot at the intersection of Highways 522 and 150 at 9am to sort out shuttles. Riders also have the option to meet near the trail head at 10am. We will bypass the east end trail head and drive through Cerro into the Wild and Scenic Rivers recreation area and access the trail from the west side. At the Vistas de Questa Trail sign turn left and drive up the road approximately a quarter mile to a clearing on the left and park there. We will then ride approximately a mile up the road to the trail head. More driving but the trail riding is better from this starting point.
Riders will ride east out and back to the scenic Punto de Coyote overlooking Questa. There will be an option to ride the loop below the peak just before or after ascending the overlook. Riders will then ride back with the option to ride the expert level Diablo and Loco Trails loop.
Diablo is a technical playground with all the features a skilled rider will enjoy and will probably require some maintenance. Loco is a steep grinding climb requiring lungs and legs on point to conquer. Riders will be rewarded with stunning views of Cerro Chiflo as it plunges into the Rio Grande Gorge.
This is a three hour out and back ride, or four hours with the Diablo-Loco Trails loop. With the drive to Questa and back and post ride snacks and beverages, riders should budget a six to seven hour day.
Bring your favorite beverage or snack and some will be provided. This is an out and back route so riders wishing to do a shorter ride can be swept up on the return. Bring all necessary ride requirements like food, water, tools, and proper spare tube size. Make sure your bike is ready to go as to avoid delays at the start.
Oh yeah, and bring your camera.