How to explore New Mexico's 50-Mile Loop Bike Trail

Among the state's numerous cycling routes, the 50-Mile Loop Bike Trail stands out as a worthy cycling experience.

This trail takes riders on a journey through some of Albuquerque's most captivating scenery, providing an adventure showcasing the city’s beauty, challenges, and attractions along the way.

The 50-Mile Loop Bike Trail begins and ends in historic downtown Albuquerque. Use the Downtown Civic Plaza as your landmark. If you’re visiting, use any of the downtown Albuquerque hotels for GPS. From here the trail will provide a diverse mix of urban and natural landscapes to enjoy.

Trail Highlights

Petroglyph National Monument: The trail heads north toward the Petroglyph National Monument. This site features thousands of ancient petroglyphs etched into volcanic rocks.

Rio Grande Bosque: The trail continues along the Rio Grande Bosque, a lush riparian area filled with cottonwood trees and abundant wildlife.

Open Spaces: The 50-Mile Loop Bike Trail connects several open spaces in Albuquerque, including the West Mesa and South Valley. These open spaces offer a chance to experience the high desert's natural beauty, with vast vistas, arroyos, and native flora.

Challenges and Thrills: While the trail is generally suitable for riders of various skill levels, it does have some challenging sections, especially the hills along the Rio Grande Valley. These uphill stretches will test your mettle but reward you with stunning panoramic views.

Local Urban Scene: Albuquerque is known for its vibrant food scene, and the 50-Mile Loop Bike Trail conveniently passes by numerous restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, and art museums where you can refuel and savor local flavors and sights.

Trail Logistics

Before embarking on your 50-Mile Loop adventure, it's important to plan ahead:

• Bike Maintenance: Ensure your bicycle is in good working condition, as the trail can be demanding in some areas.

• Water and Supplies: Bring plenty of water, especially during hot New Mexico summers. Pack snacks and basic tools for minor repairs. Don’t forget any necessary safety gear.

• Trail Map: Acquire a trail map to help you navigate the route and make the most of your journey.

Happy cycling!

Views along the 50-mile trail around Albuquerque