Distance
85 miles / 137.4km
Elevation Gain
5,902ft / 1,799m
Enchanted Circle Loop
Enchanted Circle Loop
#10 on our Great Rides list
Taos
In a far northern corner of New Mexico at the southern end of the Rockies in a Range known as the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, you will find an epic cycling route that circles the states’ tallest mountain, 13,167 foot Wheeler peak.
Location
Taos to Red River, New Mexico, USA
Surface
Paved Road
Difficulty
Level 4
Traffic
Level 2
Discover this ride on our New Mexico bike tour
Visit Santa Fe and the Pueblos of the Southwest
The Enchanted Circle begins and ends in Taos’s historic village and home to the 1000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Taos Pueblo.
The Enchanted Circle begins and ends in Taos’s historic village and home to the 1000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Taos Pueblo. The challenging loop is 85 miles and requires just under 6000 ft. of climbing over two passes: Palo Flechado Pass (9112 ft.) and Bobcat Pass (9820 ft.) On this ride, you will experience many landscapes, including the sage-covered desert plateau of the Rio Grande Rift Valley, Pine and Aspen lined valleys, and views of the highest snow-capped peaks in the state. Plan on making a stop at the powerful Viet Nam Memorial outside of Angel Fire, spotting birds of prey along Eagles Nest Lake, and grabbing a quick lunch in the little ski town of Red River. While the summiting of Bobcat pass marks the highest elevation of the trip and the end of the second pass, don’t be fooled! Following 18 miles of descending, just beyond the town of Questa, over the next 12 miles, you will encounter a set of short but steep climbs that often are subject to swift headwinds, heat, or both. As you crest the Taos Plateau near Arroyo Hondo, you will gaze upon the 800 ft. deep Rio Grande Gorge, and in just 10 more miles down a false flat descent, you will arrive back in the Taos. An epic day should be rewarded by an epic meal at one of Taos’s top-notch eateries.
What you need to know
RIDE DETAILS
Featuring 5900 ft of climbing, this ride is not for the faint of heart. It is an incredibly beautiful challenge that is worth every pedal stroke. The average grade is 3.5% but you will see gradients much higher and a max grade of 11%.
WEATHER
Plan to bring layers in line with the time of year. All seasons can see a range of wet and dry hot and cold at these elevations and it is a long road if you forget your jacket and knee warmers.
FUEL
While this is an Epic ride you will find a few places conveniently located to restock on water, snacks and even lunch in Eagles Nest, Red River, Questa and Arroyo Hondo. Be prepared to pedal for 32 miles and one mountain pass before your first snack and water stop. Good lunch options can be found in Red River at 49 miles.
While you’re in town
Fly to Albuquerque, NM and rent a car to drive 2.5 hours to the beautful town of Taos where there are a plethora of outdoor actvities to keep you busy. Raft the Rio Grande or fly-fish with a local outfitter, Hot air balloon over the gorge bridge, hike the many Sangre de Cristo Trails including to the summit of Wheeler peak. Visit galleries and shops in taos. Check out the Milicent Rogers museum or book at tour of the Earth Ships.
There are many hotels and B&B’s in the area but El Monte Sagrado is by far the most luxurious and contemporary. It has an amazing pool and grounds. Casa Benavides is a great B&B with the best breakfast in town and run by long time locals the Benavides Family.
Stroll down to the Taos Plaza and surrounding downtown area to find a range of great restaurants from local brew pubs to fine dining. For your last minute bike needs, check out Gearing Up Cycling and Taos Cycling in Taos or New Mexico Bike and Sport or Melo Velo in Santa Fe.
Ready to for this ride?
Book early and save. We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price is guaranteed.