The best cycling routes around Las Cruces

Las Cruces offers a diverse selection of touring cycling routes. There are currently 6 routes available on komoot, catering to various skill levels, from easy to difficult.

Touring cycling in Las Cruces immerses you in the unique Chihuahuan Desert landscape. You'll encounter the dramatic Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, the fertile Mesilla Valley with its pecan groves, and routes along the Rio Grande. The region's open desert terrain provides a stunning backdrop for your rides.

Yes, Las Cruces has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families looking for a gentler ride. For example, The Bean cafe loop from Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park is an easy 13.6-mile (21.9 km) path that offers a pleasant experience through the local landscape.

With approximately 320 days of sunshine annually, touring cycling can be enjoyed year-round in Las Cruces. However, the most comfortable seasons are typically spring and fall, when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended, and winter offers cool, crisp days perfect for cycling.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Las Cruces are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the The Bean cafe loop from Las Cruces, an easy 18.0-mile (29.0 km) path that provides a gentle ride through parts of the Mesilla Valley.

While touring cycling, you'll often have views of the majestic Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. Some routes might take you near the Rio Grande or through pecan groves in the Mesilla Valley. For specific natural features, consider exploring areas around the Baylor Canyon or the Fillmore Waterfall, which are popular highlights in the region.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Las Cruces offers more difficult routes. The Bike loop from Las Cruces is a challenging 21.0-mile (33.8 km) route with significant elevation changes, providing a robust workout and rewarding views.

Many routes in Las Cruces are designed to pass by or near local amenities. For instance, both The Bean cafe loop from Mesilla Valley Mall and The Bean cafe loop from Las Cruces are named for a local cafe, indicating opportunities for refreshments. The Mesilla Valley also features routes that wind through areas with local breweries, wineries, and cafes.

The touring cycling routes in Las Cruces are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from open desert to lush pecan groves, and the stunning views of the Organ Mountains. The variety of routes catering to different skill levels is also frequently highlighted.

Las Cruces' Roadrunner Transit system offers some bike-friendly options, including bike racks on buses, which can help connect cyclists to various parts of the city and potentially closer to trailheads. It's advisable to check specific bus routes and schedules for direct access to your chosen touring cycling starting points.

While not directly on the touring cycling routes listed, the region is home to the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument, offering a glimpse into ancient history with its fossilized trackways. Some cycling routes may pass through areas that offer views or access points to this broader geological context, particularly in the Robledo Mountains area.

For a moderate challenge, consider the Shack – Seismic Laboratory loop from New Mexico State University. This 12.4-mile (20.0 km) route leads through varied desert terrain and is typically completed in about 1 hour 35 minutes, offering a good balance of distance and elevation.