The best road cycling routes around Cedar Crest

There are 11 road cycling routes around Cedar Crest, offering diverse options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.

Road cycling around Cedar Crest is characterized by significant elevation changes, as routes often ascend into the Cibola National Forest and towards the Sandia Crest. You'll find challenging climbs, such as the one on the Sandia Crest Overlook – Sunset View from Sandia Crest loop from Cañoncito, which features a substantial elevation gain, alongside moderate rides through forested areas.

While many routes involve significant climbs, there are moderate options available. For instance, the Pa-ako ruins loop from Tijeras is a moderate route that offers a journey through varied landscapes, suitable for those with good fitness but not necessarily seeking the most extreme challenges.

The region is rich in natural beauty. A highlight for many cyclists is the ride to Sandia Crest, offering panoramic views of Albuquerque, the Rio Grande Valley, and distant mountains. You can also find attractions like the Sunset View from Sandia Crest and the Sandia Crest Overlook. The Travertine Falls and the U-Mound Rock Formation are also notable natural monuments in the area.

Yes, many of the routes utilize beautifully paved roads. The Sandia Crest Scenic Byway (Highway 536), which leads to the summit, is a prime example, offering 21 hairpin turns through the Cibola National Forest on a generally well-maintained surface. Other routes like the Cienega Canyon Pond loop from Sandia Park also feature paved sections.

The Cedar Crest area offers cycling opportunities through much of the year. During warmer months, the forested environments of the Cibola National Forest provide a cooler environment for riding. In the fall, the aspens along the Sandia Crest Scenic Byway display vibrant colors, making it a particularly scenic time to visit. Wildflowers also line the highway through much of the year.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same general area. Examples include the Pa-ako ruins loop from Tijeras, the Cienega Canyon Pond loop from Sandia Park, and the Sandia Crest Overlook – Sunset View from Sandia Crest loop from Cañoncito.

Many routes originate from towns like Cedar Crest, Tijeras, or Sandia Park, which typically offer parking options. For example, the Bridge over Tramway Blvd. NE loop from Redbox starts from the Redbox area, which is a common access point for routes heading towards the Sandia Mountains.

Yes, some routes offer significant distances. The Pa-ako ruins loop from Tijeras covers approximately 75 kilometers (46.7 miles), providing a substantial ride for those looking for longer distances.

Cedar Crest itself serves as a convenient base for exploring the cycling opportunities. The town offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cozy mountain lodging options where cyclists can refuel and rest after their rides. You can find cafes and other services within the town center.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging ascents of the Sandia Mountains, the stunning panoramic views from the Sandia Crest, and the scenic byways that wind through diverse vegetation zones, especially the vibrant colors in the fall.

While many routes involve significant elevation, some moderate routes might be suitable for families with older, experienced children. It's best to check the specific route details for elevation gain and distance to ensure it matches your family's fitness level. The paved sections of routes like the Cienega Canyon Pond loop from Sandia Park could be considered for their smoother surfaces.