The best MTB trails in Quimiag

Quimiag offers a selection of mountain bike trails, with over 5 routes documented on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, primarily focusing on moderate to difficult rides through the Andean landscape.

You will experience diverse Andean landscapes, ranging from fertile farming lands and agricultural areas to high-altitude páramos (Andean grasslands). The routes often feature volcanic terrain and offer views of majestic peaks like El Altar and Chimborazo.

Yes, many of the trails in Quimiag are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Tola (Llallas) loop from Riobamba and the Jardin loop from Agencia Nacional de Transito Riobamba.

The trails in Quimiag are predominantly moderate to difficult. Riders can expect significant elevation changes, with routes like the Area verde – area verde loop from Estación del Tren Riobamba presenting a challenging 922 meters of ascent over 57 kilometers.

While specific attractions directly on the routes are not detailed, the region itself is rich in natural beauty. You can expect panoramic views of volcanoes like Tungurahua, El Altar, Chimborazo, Carihuairazo, and Cotopaxi from various points, such as Mirador Verdepamba. The trails also pass through areas with access to glacial lagoons and waterfalls.

The Andean climate can be variable. Generally, the drier seasons are more favorable for mountain biking, offering clearer skies and more stable trail conditions. However, due to the high altitude, weather can change rapidly, so being prepared for various conditions is always advisable.

The majority of routes in Quimiag are rated as moderate to difficult, featuring significant elevation gains and varied terrain. While there are no specifically designated 'easy' or 'family-friendly' routes listed, some of the shorter moderate loops, such as the Area verde – Area verde loop from Estación del Tren Riobamba (27 km), might be manageable for experienced beginners or families with strong riding skills.

The mountain bike trails in Quimiag are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 25 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning Andean scenery, and the challenging nature of the routes.

Quimiag is located near Riobamba, which serves as a regional hub. While specific public transport options directly to every trailhead are not detailed, you can often find local transport from Riobamba to areas surrounding Quimiag. For example, some routes start from locations like Estación del Tren Riobamba or Agencia Nacional de Transito Riobamba, which are accessible within the city.

The páramos and natural areas around Quimiag are home to various Andean wildlife. You might spot llamas, vicuñas, alpacas, deer, and even Andean wolves, especially in the more remote sections of the trails or within protected areas like Sangay National Park.

The region around Quimiag is known for its waterfalls. While not directly on every mountain bike route, the area features the Puelazo waterfall, which is easily accessible from Riobamba, and cascades in the Tumba San Francisco community. The stunning Laguna Azul also boasts diverse and spectacular waterfalls fed by melting glaciers.