The best cycling routes in Desierto De Los Leones

Touring cycling in Desierto De Los Leones primarily features moderate to difficult routes. The park's terrain includes rolling hills and significant elevation changes, making it suitable for cyclists with some experience. There are 6 moderate routes and 23 difficult routes available.

Desierto De Los Leones is characterized by its challenging terrain, and as such, there are no routes specifically classified as 'easy' for touring cycling. Most routes are moderate to difficult, involving rolling hills and elevation changes.

Route durations vary depending on distance and difficulty. For example, the Circular por Desierto de los Leones, a moderate 10.6-mile route, takes about 1 hour 21 minutes. More challenging routes like La Venta – Mobile food stand loop from San Lorenzo Acopilco, which is 21.8 miles, can take over 2 hours 30 minutes.

Experienced touring cyclists can enjoy routes with significant elevation changes. A notable difficult route is Panoramic view of Mexico City – Valley of Plastic Rabbits loop from Cola de Pato, spanning 13.5 miles with substantial climbs. Another challenging option is La Venta – Mobile food stand loop from San Lorenzo Acopilco, which covers 21.8 miles.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Desierto De Los Leones are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Circular por Desierto de los Leones and the shorter Yellow gate – La Venta loop from Colonia Zona Rústica.

The routes offer diverse scenery, from dense woodlands to elevated sections with panoramic views. You can encounter historical sites like the Ex Convent of Desierto de los Leones, and various viewpoints such as Peñas de Shiro Viewpoint by the Hermitage and Piedra Viewpoint.

Some routes pass by local food stands or facilities. For instance, the La Venta – Mobile food stand loop from San Lorenzo Acopilco mentions a mobile food stand, and the Tres Caminos Dam – Quesadilla stand loop from Colonia Xalpa passes by a quesadilla stand. It's advisable to carry your own snacks and water, especially on longer rides.

The forested environment of Desierto De Los Leones offers shade, making it pleasant for cycling during warmer months. However, the region can experience rain, particularly in the summer. Spring and autumn generally offer milder temperatures and less precipitation, providing ideal conditions for touring cycling.

Given the varied terrain and potential for elevation changes, it's recommended to bring appropriate cycling gear, including a helmet, water, snacks, and basic repair tools. Layers of clothing are also advisable due to potential temperature fluctuations, especially at higher elevations or in shaded areas.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dense woodlands, scenic viewpoints, and the challenging yet rewarding nature of the routes. The natural environment and varied terrain are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Desierto De Los Leones is a national park, and parking facilities are generally available at various access points or trailheads. Specific parking availability can vary depending on the starting point of your chosen route, so it's good to check maps or local information for your intended access point.

Access to Desierto De Los Leones by public transport is possible, though it may require a combination of bus services to reach the park's vicinity. From there, you might need to cycle a short distance to reach specific route starting points. It's recommended to research local bus routes and schedules from Mexico City or nearby towns.