The best road cycling routes around El Paso

Road cycling routes around El Paso offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can expect dramatic mountain backdrops in the Franklin Mountains, serene riverside paths along the Rio Grande River, and rugged desert foothills characteristic of the Chihuahuan Desert. This variety provides everything from challenging climbs to mostly flat, paved multi-use trails.

There are over 10 road cycling routes around El Paso listed on komoot, catering to various skill levels. These routes have been explored by over 745 road cyclists and are highly rated by the community.

Yes, El Paso offers several challenging routes. For instance, the From Las Manchas to the Old Fuencaliente Lighthouse – circular route in the South of La Palma is a difficult 33.2-mile ride with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the El Pilar Recreation Area – Echentive Beach loop from Los Llanos de Aridane, an extensive 62.6-mile loop with substantial climbing.

For breathtaking views, the Transmountain Highway through the Franklin Mountains is a highly scenic option. The Rio Grande Trail (also known as the River Park Trail) offers picturesque rides along the river with views of wild vegetation and the Franklin Mountains. Additionally, the Franklin Mountains Drive provides panoramic city views.

While many routes feature climbs, the Rio Grande Trail offers mostly flat, paved sections, making it suitable for easier rides. The Puerto de Tazacorte Beach – Tazacorte Town Center loop from Cruce Tajuya B is another moderate option, covering 36 miles with less intense elevation changes compared to the more difficult mountain routes.

El Paso, known as the 'Sun City,' boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an excellent destination for outdoor activities. Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable temperatures for road cycling, avoiding the peak heat of summer while still enjoying clear skies.

For those seeking longer rides, the El Time Viewpoint – El Pilar Recreation Area loop from La Palma is a substantial 86.3-mile route. The Smugglers Pass & Mission Valley loop is another difficult, extensive option, covering 68.1 miles with challenging climbs and desert views.

The road cycling routes in El Paso are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 26 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain passes to serene riverside paths, and the unique beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert landscapes.

While cycling, you might encounter various natural and historical points of interest. The McKelligon Canyon Road, for example, showcases Chihuahuan Desert wildlife. For broader exploration, you can find attractions like Roque de los Muchachos or the San Antonio Volcano in the wider region.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. Examples include the From Las Manchas to the Old Fuencaliente Lighthouse – circular route in the South of La Palma, the El Pilar Recreation Area – Echentive Beach loop from Los Llanos de Aridane, and the El Pilar Recreation Area – El Pilar to Santa Cruz Road loop from El Paso. The El Paso Tin Mines – Scenic Road Trail loop from Chuck Heinrich Park is another popular 12-mile loop through desert landscapes.

Yes, the Ascarate Park Lake – Murchison Rogers Park Overlook loop is a moderate road ride that offers scenic views, including the city skyline and vistas towards Mexico from Murchison Rogers Park. The Franklin Mountains Drive also provides panoramic city views.

While not directly on road cycling routes, the broader El Paso region features natural wonders. You can find highlights like the Cubo de la Galga Gorge or various waterfalls such as the Colorful Waterfall and Los Tilos Waterfall in nearby areas, which could be explored as separate excursions.