The best road cycling routes around El Paso

Road cycling routes in El Paso traverse the unique Chihuahuan Desert landscape, bordered by the Franklin Mountains and the Rio Grande. You'll find a diverse mix of terrain, from flat, paved paths along the river to challenging mountain ascents with significant elevation changes within the Franklin Mountains.

There are nearly 30 road cycling routes documented on komoot for the El Paso area. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult options.

Yes, El Paso offers several challenging climbs, particularly within the Franklin Mountains. Routes like the Smugglers Pass & Mission Valley loop feature significant elevation gain and expansive desert views. The Transmountain Highway, which winds through the Franklin Mountains, also presents over 1,400 feet of climbing with steep sections.

For easier rides, consider routes that stick to flatter terrain. The Rio Grande Riverpark Trail offers miles of paved paths ideal for leisurely cycling. Additionally, the Murchison Rogers Park Overlook loop from Montwood High School is rated as an easy route, providing a good introduction to the area's scenery.

Road cyclists in El Paso can enjoy stunning desert vistas, dramatic mountain backdrops, and picturesque riverine landscapes along the Rio Grande. The "Scenic Drive - Overlook" is a popular spot for panoramic views, and on Sunday mornings, this road is closed to cars, enhancing the cycling experience.

Yes, many road cycling routes in El Paso are designed as loops. Examples include the challenging Smugglers Pass & Mission Valley loop, the moderate Resler Pond 2 loop from Coronado High School, and the easy Murchison Rogers Park Overlook loop from Montwood High School.

While cycling, you'll be surrounded by the Chihuahuan Desert and the Franklin Mountains. You might also encounter highlights such as Mount Cristo Rey or the South Franklin Mountain summit. The Rio Grande itself is a prominent natural feature, with the Rio Grande Riverpark Trail offering scenic views along its banks.

El Paso is known for its abundant sunshine, with over 300 sunny days annually, making it suitable for outdoor activities year-round. However, to avoid the peak summer heat, spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions for road cycling.

Yes, Ascarate Park is the largest public recreational space in El Paso County, spanning over 400 acres. It features a scenic 48-acre lake with a boardwalk, making it a nice spot for a break. There's even an easy road cycling loop around Ascarate Park itself, such as the Ascarate Park Lake – Murchison Rogers Park Overlook loop from Montwood High School.

The komoot community frequently praises El Paso for its diverse terrain, offering everything from flat, scenic paths to demanding mountain ascents. Cyclists particularly enjoy the stunning desert vistas and mountain backdrops, as well as the abundant sunshine that makes year-round riding possible.

The Franklin Mountains are the primary area for challenging climbs. Routes like the Transmountain Highway offer significant elevation gain, and the "Scenic Drive - Overlook" is a popular climbing spot. The View of the Mammoth – Murchison Rogers Park Overlook loop from Coronado High School also features substantial climbing.

El Paso has a dedicated cycling community with local bike shops that can provide gear, services, and local route advice. Crazy Cat Cyclery and Trek El Paso are examples of shops that cater to both road and mountain biking enthusiasts in the area.