The best traffic-free bike rides in Cibola National Forest

Cibola National Forest offers a good selection of touring cycling routes designed to minimize traffic, with over 20 routes currently available. These range from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The varied elevations of Cibola National Forest mean cycling conditions can differ. Generally, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fall colors being particularly striking in the mountain ranges. Higher elevations, like the Sandia Crest Road, are best enjoyed from late spring through early fall to avoid snow and ice. Lower elevation routes and grasslands can be cycled year-round, though summer afternoons can be very hot.

Yes, Cibola National Forest has several easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. An example is the Bear Canyon Trailhead loop from Bear Canyon Arroyo, which offers a gentle introduction to the forest's beauty with minimal elevation gain.

The terrain is diverse, reflecting the forest's vastness. You'll find routes through piñon-juniper woodlands, ponderosa pine forests, and mixed conifer ecosystems. While some routes are paved, many 'no-traffic' options will be on well-maintained forest roads or gravel paths, especially in areas like Cibola County near Grants, which is known for its gravel biking opportunities. Expect varied elevations, from rolling hills to more challenging mountain ascents.

Many routes offer access to stunning natural and man-made attractions. You might pass by the historic Kiwanis Cabin, enjoy panoramic views from the Sandia Crest Overlook, or even spot the impressive Travertine Falls. The forest also features prominent peaks like Mount Taylor Summit, offering dramatic backdrops to your ride.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Cibola National Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path. An example is the Bike loop from Embudito Arroyo, which provides a scenic circular journey.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Cibola National Forest, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning mountain scenery, the sense of solitude on less-trafficked routes, and the diverse landscapes that offer everything from shaded forest paths to expansive desert vistas. The opportunity for wildlife viewing is also frequently highlighted.

While many routes are day trips, sections of the internationally recognized Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) pass through Cibola National Forest near Grants, New Mexico. This offers remote wilderness and varied landscapes, making it ideal for experienced cyclists seeking multi-day, off-road touring with minimal traffic.

Parking is generally available at designated trailheads and access points throughout the Cibola National Forest. For routes near the Sandia Mountains, you might find parking at locations like the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway or various arroyo access points, which serve as starting points for many loops. Always check specific route details for recommended parking areas.

Dogs are generally permitted on trails and forest roads in Cibola National Forest, but they must be kept on a leash. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out pet waste. It's advisable to check specific trail regulations before you go, as some areas or wilderness sections may have different rules.

Absolutely. Many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes, particularly those in the eastern part of the forest, offer spectacular views of the Sandia Mountains. Routes starting near the base of the Sandias, such as the Bear Canyon Trailhead loop from Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway Parking, provide excellent vantage points and immerse you in the mountain environment.