The best traffic-free bike rides in La Madre Mountain Wilderness
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(20)
435
riders
4
rides
Touring cycling in La Madre Mountain Wilderness offers routes through a diverse landscape characterized by significant elevation changes, from Mojave Desert scrub to pinyon-juniper woodlands. The region features striking geological formations, including the Keystone Thrust Fault, which creates a contrast between bright red sandstone and rugged gray limestone cliffs. Canyon washes and open desert expanses define much of the terrain, providing varied backdrops for no traffic touring cycling routes.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in La Madre Mountain Wilderness
…Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.8
(9)
93
riders
24.8km
01:42
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
5.54km
00:37
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
15.6km
01:34
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
39.0km
03:36
520m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Permagrin (or Perma Grin) is one of the most popular trails in the Bears Best Trail system that should be ridden from south to north (downhill). Permagrin is comprised of a series of fun washes and gullies that create undulating bumps that skirt the side of the mountain.
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Benchmark is a fun, short trail that connects Gasoline Road to Jeep Road and the respective nearby trails at the 5-Way with a short, but steep, section. It is frequently linked up with Permagrin, but can be combined with other trails that intersect at the 5-Way like Nice Curves. Although Benchmark is can be ridden either direction, most ride it uphill from Gasoline Road to Jeep Road and the 5-Way.
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This trailhead is the main access point to the Bears Best Trail System. This extensive network of trails connects to other systems including Blue Diamond and Cowboy Trails, which have trails of varying difficulties; there really is something for everyone in an amazing desert setting! In the spring, summer, and early fall look out for desert tortoises in this area! They blend into the surroundings and can look like rocks! Please do not pick up or handle a tortoise unless they are in danger of getting hit; in those cases you can carefully pick up the tort by the sides of it shell, keep it low to the ground and move it in the direction it was headed (and sanitize your hands afterward!). Other than that, please do not touch a tort or get too, too close to one in the wild because scaring them can actually be deadly! When afraid, they will pee as a last resort defense mechanism. Desert tortoises are able to drink water in large amounts (up to 45% of their body weight), which is stored for future use and critical to their survival all year. They can actually live off of one big drink a year! If startled, however, they might urinate and lose their critical water stores and die of dehydration. Additionally, wild torts carry a bunch of diseases including salmonella and herpes, so you also don’t want to handle them for your own safety!
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Cliff Shadows Open Desert Park is a fantastic park located on the west side of Las Vegas. This is an extremely popular mountain biking area but there is also great hiking as well. On days after rainfall in the cooler months you might also see rock climbers climbing at the popular limestone crag known as "The Gun Club," just a few hundred yards from the lower parking area.
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Great spot to take a last look at the canyon after riding the loop or on the way to/from Blue Diamond. There are toilets available next to the parking lot.
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A bliss of a ride: well-paved, one-way, fun curves, and amazing views all along. Popular for a reason!
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Massive community bike shop offering rentals, repairs, and anything you can imagine in terms of supplies. Conveniently located close to Red Rock Canyon.
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Cliff Shadows Open Desert Park is a fantastic park located on the west side of Las Vegas. This is an extremely popular mountain biking area but there is also great hiking as well. On days after rainfall in the cooler months you might also see rock climbers climbing at the popular limestone crag known as "The Gun Club," just a few hundred yards from the lower parking area. The reason why climbers frequent this area after precipitation is because you should not climb on the sandstone in Red Rock Canyon after rain because it becomes brittle and can break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in the La Madre Mountain Wilderness area?
There are currently 3 no-traffic touring cycling routes available in the broader La Madre Mountain Wilderness area, primarily within the adjacent Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options for exploring the stunning desert landscapes.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in the La Madre Mountain Wilderness region?
The best time for touring cycling in the La Madre Mountain Wilderness region is generally from late fall to late spring. During these months, temperatures are more moderate and pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer can be extremely hot, making cycling challenging and potentially unsafe.
Are there any easy no-traffic touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there is an easy no-traffic touring cycling route perfect for beginners or families. The Bike loop from Gilmore Cliff Shadows is a shorter, less strenuous option, covering about 5.5 km with moderate elevation gain, offering a pleasant ride through the desert scenery.
What kind of scenery can I expect on these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The routes offer spectacular and varied scenery. You'll encounter dramatic geological formations, including the vivid red and white sandstone formations characteristic of the Red Rock Canyon area, contrasting with rugged gray limestone cliffs. The landscape transitions from Mojave Desert scrub to pinyon-juniper woodlands, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest along the cycling routes?
While cycling is restricted within the designated wilderness, routes in the surrounding area offer access to several points of interest. You can find ancient cultural sites like the Handprint Pictograms and Earth Oven, or enjoy views of natural features like Turtlehead Peak. The Willow Springs Picnic Area is also a pleasant spot to stop.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in the La Madre Mountain Wilderness area?
The touring cycling routes in the La Madre Mountain Wilderness area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 18 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning desert landscapes, the feeling of solitude on the no-traffic paths, and the unique geological features encountered along the way.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available?
Yes, all the listed no-traffic touring cycling routes in this guide are circular. For example, the Red Rock Scenic Loop from the Red Rock Canyon Overlook provides a moderate 24.8 km loop, allowing you to start and end at the same point.
Where can I park my car when accessing these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Parking is available at various access points for the routes. For instance, the Willow Spring Trailhead and Parking Area is a common starting point for exploring the Red Rock Canyon area, which borders the La Madre Mountain Wilderness and offers cycling opportunities.
What wildlife might I encounter while cycling in this region?
The diverse elevation and vegetation support a variety of animal life. While cycling, you might spot desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, various bird species, and smaller desert animals like foxes or rabbits. Keep an eye out, especially during cooler parts of the day.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders looking for a moderate challenge, the Red Rock Scenic Loop from the Red Rock Canyon Overlook is an excellent choice. This route spans nearly 25 km with over 440 meters of elevation gain, offering a rewarding ride through the scenic Red Rock Canyon.
What should I bring for a touring cycling trip in the La Madre Mountain Wilderness area?
Given the desert environment, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), snacks, a basic bike repair kit, and a fully charged phone are also highly recommended. Always check weather conditions before you go.
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