The best traffic-free bike rides in Los Alamos County
5.0
(2)
47
riders
4
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Los Alamos County traverse a landscape characterized by the Pajarito Plateau and the surrounding Jemez Mountains. The region features diverse terrain, including mesas, canyons, and forests of Ponderosa pines and aspens. Cyclists can experience significant elevation changes due to the high-altitude setting, with routes offering views of the Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Rio Grande Valley.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Los Alamos County
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Cerro Piñon – View of Redondo Peak loop from Cerro la Jara, a 34.3 miles (55.2 km) trail that takes 5 hours 21 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers expansive views of the surrounding peaks and high-altitude terrain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is View of Redondo Peak – Cerro Piñon loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano, a moderate 15.3 miles (24.6 km) path. This route provides scenic vistas across the Valles Caldera, combining open landscapes with forested sections.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Pueblo Canyon view – Acid Canyon Trail loop from Los Alamos, a 13.5 miles (21.8 km) trail leading through canyons and offering views of the Pajarito Plateau, often completed in about 2 hours 7 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Los Alamos County is defined by high-altitude mesas, deep canyons, and pine forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate rides to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Los Alamos County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 30 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Los Alamos County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
6
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
35.8km
03:24
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Los Alamos County
Tips from the Community
This junction gives you a great view of Redondo Peak and the valley in between. This area does have private houses, so it's important to stay on the trail while taking in the views.
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Valles Caldera National Preserve in northern New Mexico is a 13.7-mile-wide volcanic caldera formed by a massive eruption approximately 1.2 million years ago. Now the area is full of mountains, meadows, and interesting geothermal features.
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This junction gives runners a great view of Redondo Peak and the valley in between. This area does have private houses, so it's important to stay on the trail while taking in the views.
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This junction gives hikers a great view of Redondo Peak and the valley in between. This area does have private houses, so it's important to stay on the trail while taking in the views.
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The Valles Caldera, a twenty kilometer wide circular depression, is a geological gem created by a volcanic eruption that took place around 1.25 million years ago. Today it is a protected area that covers over 39,000 hectares and attracts around 120,000 annual visitors who wish to hike, horseback ride, mountain bike, camp or fish for trout, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Located just 22 kilometers west of downtown Los Alamos, the Valles Caldera National Preserve is also a popular hunting destination, as it claims the second largest elk population in the state, and more 400 wild turkeys live in the reserve from April to December. Other wildlife, such as prairie dogs, black bears, and golden eagles, also call this wilderness home.
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The Valles Caldera, a twenty kilometer wide circular depression, is a geological gem created by a volcanic eruption that took place around 1.25 million years ago. Today it is a protected area that covers over 39,000 hectares and attracts around 120,000 annual visitors who wish to hike, horseback ride, mountain bike, camp or fish for trout, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Located just 22 kilometers west of downtown Los Alamos, the Valles Caldera National Preserve is also a popular hunting destination, as it claims the second largest elk population in the state, and more 400 wild turkeys live in the reserve from April to December. Other wildlife, such as prairie dogs, black bears, and golden eagles, also call this wilderness wilderness home.
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Valles Caldera (or Jemez Caldera) is a 13.7-mile (22.0 km) wide volcanic caldera in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico created by spectacular volcanic eruption of the Southwest's supervolcano about 1.25 million years ago. Hot springs, streams, fumaroles, natural gas seeps and volcanic domes dot the caldera floor landscape. The highest point in the caldera is Redondo Peak, an 11,253-foot (3,430 m) resurgent lava dome located entirely within the caldera. Also within the caldera are several grass valleys [Valle(s)] the largest of which is Valle Grande, the only one accessible by a paved road. Much of the caldera is within the Valles Caldera National Preserve, a unit of the National Park System. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valles_Caldera http://www.nps.gov/vall/index.htm
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Los Alamos County?
There are 4 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes listed in Los Alamos County, offering options for moderate and difficult skill levels. These routes are specifically curated to provide a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.
Are there any easy or family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes in Los Alamos County?
While the specific no-traffic touring routes highlighted here are rated moderate to difficult, Los Alamos County boasts numerous other family-friendly biking trails. These include paved and unpaved options at a milder pace, such as the Canyon Rim Trail, North Mesa Trail, and Bayo Bench Trail, which are suitable for all skill levels and offer less challenging terrain.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on no-traffic touring routes in Los Alamos County?
The no-traffic touring routes in Los Alamos County offer varied terrain, from paved sections to unpaved trails. Given the region's high-altitude setting, averaging around 7400 feet, you can expect significant elevation changes, providing a vigorous workout. For example, the Cerro Piñon – View of Redondo Peak loop from Cerro la Jara route features over 535 meters (1750 feet) of elevation gain over 55 kilometers.
What notable landmarks or viewpoints can I see along these no-traffic touring routes?
Many routes offer stunning vistas. You can expect views of the Valles Caldera National Preserve, the Rio Grande Valley, and the Pajarito Plateau. Specific highlights include the White Rock Canyon Overlook and the North Bench Overlook. The View of Redondo Peak – Cerro Piñon loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano offers direct views of Redondo Peak.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Los Alamos County?
Los Alamos County experiences many sunny days, making year-round biking possible. However, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for touring cycling. Summer can be warm, while winter rides are feasible but may require appropriate gear for cooler conditions.
Are there any loop routes among the no-traffic touring cycling options?
Yes, all the no-traffic touring cycling routes listed are designed as loops. This allows you to start and end your ride at the same point without needing to retrace your path. Examples include the Pueblo Canyon view – Acid Canyon Trail loop from Los Alamos and the Cerro Piñon – View of Redondo Peak loop from Valles Caldera supervolcano.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Los Alamos County?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Los Alamos County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the extensive trail networks that allow for traffic-free exploration, and the stunning views of the Jemez Mountains and Valles Caldera.
Are there any long-distance no-traffic touring routes available?
Yes, some routes offer a significant distance for touring. The longest no-traffic route listed is the Cerro Piñon – View of Redondo Peak loop from Cerro la Jara, which spans over 55 kilometers (34 miles), providing a substantial ride through the scenic landscape.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic touring routes?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular trailheads in Los Alamos County, such as those near the Canyon Rim Trail or within the Valles Caldera National Preserve, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details or local county resources for precise parking information for your chosen starting point.
Are dogs allowed on the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Los Alamos County?
Many trails in Los Alamos County are dog-friendly, but leash laws are generally enforced to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of all trail users. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out with your dog, especially in protected areas like national monuments or preserves.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Los Alamos and White Rock offer various dining options, including cafes and restaurants, which are typically accessible from the trail networks. While not directly on every route, many trails connect to or are a short ride from town centers where you can find refreshments and meals.
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