4.8
(55)
318
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26
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in the Central Mexican Plateau traverse a vast elevated region characterized by diverse landscapes. This area features high plains, volcanic peaks, and deep river valleys, flanked by the Sierra Madre Occidental and Oriental mountain ranges. Cyclists encounter varied terrain, from high desert plains in the north to pine and oak forests at higher elevations, with significant elevation changes common across the region.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
53.6km
03:49
790m
450m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure along the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, a difficult route spanning 33.3 miles (53.6 km) through the heart of Big Bend National Park. You…
10
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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9
riders
17.6km
01:47
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
22.9km
02:14
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
25
riders
27.6km
02:39
300m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Central Mexican Plateau
A short walk leads to a viewpoint behind the Visitor Center shop. Don't miss it; the view of the valley is well worth the effort.
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The Lazy Cow Trail is one of the most accessible routes in the park, making it a great option for an offroad ride. Its smooth surface and gentle gradients (for the area) make for fun ride, though it can get busy during peak season.
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This turn off takes you on the actual Cardiac Hill Trail. It's a fun place to get in a quick workout with a decent amount of vert. There is some loose gravel on a lot of the trail, so I don't know how hard I would send the downhills. The lower trail on the way back sees less traffic than the upper double-track trail.
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The El Paso Tin Mines Trail is pretty easy to follow and gets a lot of attention in the park. The Mines, themselves, are cool structures, and you can actually go caving inside of them if you want. A real flashlight or headlamp works better than a phone light if you decide to go inside.
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Lazy Cow Trail is one of the easiest trails in the park and can be a crowded trail in the busy season. It's a great trail for running because of how smooth and gradual it is. It wouldn't be a bad place to do some strides at the end of a run.
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Mad Cow Trail is a little less "bike specific" than some of the other trails in this trail network and is great single-track for running. There are some rocky and sandy areas, so it's not like a smooth dirt road, but it's a great cruiser if you hit it for the downhill. Just keep your ears peeled for bikes.
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The Tin Mines trail is an old Jeep road with stunning views of the Franklin Mountains and the surrounding valley along the way. You will find a wide variety of native cacti and desert plants while trekking along. There is minimal shade on the trail, so it is recommended to dress in sun-protective clothing and bring at least 2 liters of water.
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At this point, you can choose to continue on to the Mad Cow trail, which loops back to the trailhead for a total of 7 miles round-trip. Alternatively, you can trek back the way you came, enjoying the scenic views of the Franklin Mountains to the west.
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There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Central Mexican Plateau, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.
The routes in the Central Mexican Plateau offer a diverse range of difficulties. You'll find 4 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes. This variety allows cyclists to choose paths that match their fitness and experience, from leisurely rides to challenging climbs through volcanic terrain.
The Central Mexican Plateau offers incredibly diverse landscapes for no-traffic touring cycling. You can expect to ride through high desert plains, pine and oak forests at higher elevations, fertile farmlands, and dramatic volcanic terrain. The region is flanked by the Sierra Madre Occidental and Oriental, providing stunning backdrops and varied ecosystems.
Yes, the Central Mexican Plateau is known for its significant elevation changes, especially in areas within the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. Routes like the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive feature challenging climbs and descents, making them ideal for experienced touring cyclists seeking a demanding ride and dramatic views of volcanic peaks.
Many no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Central Mexican Plateau offer access to remarkable historical and natural attractions. You can explore stunning natural features like Santa Elena Canyon, the unique rock formations of Balanced Rock, or enjoy views from The Window Pour-off Viewpoint. The region is also rich in archaeological wonders like Teotihuacan and colonial cities such as Puebla and San Miguel de Allende, which can often be integrated into your cycling tours.
While specific family-friendly routes are not explicitly detailed, the presence of 4 easy-rated routes suggests options suitable for families. Look for routes with lower elevation gains and shorter distances, often found in urban green spaces like Chapultepec Forest in Mexico City or designated paths around towns like San Miguel de Allende, which prioritize safety and accessibility.
The Central Mexican Plateau generally offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. However, the dry season (roughly November to May) is often preferred, as it avoids the heavy rains of the summer months. Given the high altitude, temperatures can vary, so checking local weather forecasts for your specific route and time of travel is always recommended.
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Central Mexican Plateau are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse scenery, from high plains to volcanic landscapes, and the opportunity to explore cultural sites and natural wonders away from vehicular traffic.
Yes, several circular no-traffic touring routes are available, providing convenient options for starting and ending your ride at the same point. Examples include the Blue Moon Trail – Lazy Cow Trail loop from Boss Chicken, the Lazy Cow Trail – Mad Cow Trail loop from Chuck Heinrich Park, and the Mad Cow Trail – Mad Cow Trail loop from Chuck Heinrich Park. These loops offer varied distances and moderate difficulty.
Absolutely. The Central Mexican Plateau is unique in its blend of natural beauty and rich history. Many routes, particularly those near major cities or colonial towns, allow you to cycle through stunning natural landscapes while also passing by or offering detours to significant historical sites. For instance, routes around Mexico City can lead to areas near Teotihuacan or through historic districts like Coyoacán, offering a cultural and scenic experience.
The extensive network of routes and varied terrain in the Central Mexican Plateau makes it suitable for multi-day no-traffic touring cycling trips. While specific multi-day routes are not listed here, you can link together shorter, traffic-free segments to create longer journeys. The region's diverse ecosystems and numerous towns provide opportunities for overnight stops and resupply.


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