Quemazon Trail

Get ready for a mountain biking adventure on the Quemazon/Pipeline Loop, a moderate route that packs a punch with its varied terrain. You will navigate everything from packed dirt to technical sections featuring volcanic tuff rock and small drops, making for an engaging ride. The trail covers 9.1 miles (14.7 km) and involves a significant climb of 1603 feet (489 metres), which you can expect to complete in about 1 hour and 41 minutes. As you ascend the mesa and traverse along canyon rims, you will be rewarded with outstanding panoramic views of Los Alamos and its surroundings. This loop offers both flowy singletrack and challenging rocky stretches, ensuring a dynamic experience for mountain bikers.

To begin your ride, you can access the Quemazon/Pipeline Loop from the Quemazon Trailhead, which offers generally available parking. Alternatively, if you prefer a different ascent, you can opt to start your climb via Pipeline Road. Before heading out, it is always a good idea to check local conditions to ensure the trail is open and safe for mountain biking. Planning your approach in advance will help you make the most of your time on this popular route.

This loop is a local favorite within the Santa Fe National Forest, known for its substantial elevation gain that contributes to a challenging feel despite its moderate rating. The diverse terrain and rewarding viewpoints make it a standout option for mountain bikers seeking a significant workout. You will find that the effort put into climbing is well rewarded with the expansive vistas and varied riding experience. It is a great way to explore the natural beauty and rugged landscape of the region.

Get ready for a moderate mountain biking adventure on the Quemazon, Guaje Ridge, and Perimeter Loop, covering 12.2 miles (19.6 km) with a significant 2694 feet (821 metres) of elevation gain. This route offers a diverse ride, starting with the Quemazon Trail where you'll navigate volcanic tuff rock and sandstone, opening up to great views as you climb the mesa. Later, the Perimeter Trail provides a cooler, forested environment, shaded by towering pines as it skirts the town, offering a different feel after the more exposed sections. You can expect to complete this challenging loop in about 2 hours and 28 minutes, making it a solid ride near Los Alamos.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Guaje Ridge section is best ridden in late May or early June, as it can become severely overgrown with thorn bushes later in the summer. This exposed part of the trail can also get very hot, so always bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. Navigation can be tricky, especially when trying to find the entry to Guaje Ridge, so make sure you have a reliable map or GPS device to guide you.

This loop takes you through the Santa Fe National Forest, offering a sense of remoteness with wide-open vistas on the rugged Guaje Ridge Trail. It's a great way to experience the varied landscapes of the area, from the open mesa climbs to the shaded forest paths. The combination of different trail characteristics makes this route a notable option for mountain bikers seeking a varied and engaging ride.

This 6.9-mile moderate mountain biking loop in Los Alamos offers challenging terrain, 1371 feet of gain, and panoramic canyon views.