Exciting news is on the horizon for adaptive cycling enthusiasts in northern New Mexico! With support from a grant by the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division, the region called the Enchanted Circle, which is renowned for its world-class mountain biking, has become the centerpiece of a project aimed at expanding adaptive cycling opportunities. For those unfamiliar, the Enchanted Circle is a scenic loop that connects the charming towns and villages of Taos, Red River, and Angel Fire, each offering unique experiences and stunning landscapes.
This project is dedicated to identifying trails in the region that are suitable for adaptive off-road cycling, making it easier for people with disabilities to explore the great outdoors. It also serves to pinpoint potential trail projects that can further expand accessibility for adaptive cyclists in the area. We were fortunate to team up with the skilled and passionate riders from the Enchanted Circle Trail Association, whose insights and expertise have been invaluable.
A Ride Along the Rio Grande Gorge
Our first official project ride took us to one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the area, the Rio Grande Gorge. We began our ride at the Taos Gorge Bridge, a popular tourist spot for its breathtaking views of the deep, rugged canyon. The trail we chose was the West Rim Trail, running for approximately 9 miles along the edge of the gorge. The terrain here is generally forgiving, with minimal elevation changes and mild rock gardens, making it an ideal route for adaptive cycling.
We brought along a variety of adaptive cycles, including Lasher, ReActive Adaptations, and Bowhead models, each designed to handle different aspects of off-road terrain. All the cycles performed admirably, easily navigating the rocky sections of the trail. The West Rim Trail is a classic out-and-back route, having a total distance of approximately 18 miles. While it’s not a particularly technical trail, the adaptive cycles’ suspension systems were key to making the ride smooth and enjoyable. Of course, the stunning views of the Rio Grande Gorge provided a dramatic backdrop that made every mile worth the effort.
Exploring Angel Fire’s Greenbelt Trails
The following day, we headed to Angel Fire to tackle a series of trails known as the Greenbelt Trails. These are mostly beginner-friendly and classified as “green” trails. We rode a combination of adaptive Lasher and Bowhead cycles through 6.5 miles of trails named Bear, Elk, Deer, Bobcat, and Sage. These trails offer a more leisurely experience, winding through dense pine forests with occasional patches of aspens that added to the scenic beauty.
Although these trails are fairly easy, one golden rule of adaptive off-road cycling is to always have support riders available, even on the most straightforward trails. As we like to say, “Better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.” While we didn’t require assistance during this ride, it’s always wise to be prepared.
After covering the green trails, we decided to up the ante by venturing onto the more technical blue trails, Lynx and Coyote. These crossover trails, running about 1.5 miles in total, proved to be a bit more challenging, requiring some spotter support along the way. The technical nature of these trails, with tighter turns and steeper sections, made them more demanding for adaptive cycles. The narrower design and articulating front end of the Bowhead cycles were especially advantageous here, allowing for more precise maneuvering through tight spots.
Conquering the Cougar Trail
Feeling accomplished after our ride through the Greenbelt, we decided to push ourselves further by taking a ride up to the Cougar Trail. This blue-rated trail is mostly a man-made, downhill route, making it an exhilarating ride for more experienced cyclists. The trail is flowy, with well-designed berms, banks, and a few small jumps that added a thrill factor to the ride.
Once again, we rode the same Lasher and Bowhead cycles that had served us well on the previous trails. The man-made elements of the Cougar Trail worked in favor of adaptive cycles, offering smooth, predictable surfaces that allowed for faster speeds and more flow. Overall, it was a fun and rewarding ride, giving us confidence in recommending this trail to experienced adaptive cyclists.
A Promising Future for Adaptive Cycling
The Enchanted Circle region has proven to be a haven for adaptive cycling, with trails suited for both novice and experienced riders. For those new to adaptive off-road cycling, the green trails of Angel Fire are perfect for building confidence and enjoying the serene mountain landscapes. On the other hand, experienced riders will appreciate the challenge and excitement offered by the blue trails like Lynx, Coyote, and Cougar.
As we continue to work on this project, we’re excited about the potential to make northern New Mexico a premier destination for adaptive cycling. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful ride through the pines or a heart-pumping downhill adventure, the Enchanted Circle has something for everyone.
