Last updated: July 21, 2025
Thing to Do
Bike the Valle Grande Loop
NPS/M. Wilder
Head out for a 24+ mile journey that loops around Valle Grande. This trail goes along the park's main entrance road, the first stretch of the backcountry vehicle route, along the base of Cerro del Medio, and along New Mexico State Route 4. This ride can be started from multiple locations, though each rider still needs a valid entrance pass.
Details
Duration
3-5 Hours
While the route is generally flat, there are sections of uphill and downhill. The rough section of the trail may be slow going, depending on the conditions of the trail. E-bikes are permitted on the entire loop.
Activity
Biking
This is a circular loop ride that follows the treeline around most of Valle Grande. THe route is roughly 24 miles long and is a mixture of maintained gravel backcountry vehicle road, rough old ranching roads,paved New Mexico State Route 4, and the maintained gravel entrance road.
Age(s)
Suggest 18 and older, but all ages are welcome.
Pets Allowed
No
No pets are allowed in the backcountry.
Activity Fee
No
Everyone must have a valid entrance pass.
Location
Parking in the Cabin District
This is a loop trail, so you can start at any point along the loop. Some other good areas you can start on this loop:
- Main Entrance
- Welcome Station parking area
- Cabin District parking area (the one highlighed here)
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
The route is available all year-round, depending on weather conditions. Only part of the trail is maintained, so the stretch along Cerro del Medio may be wet, muddy, or snow-covered depending on the season.
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Motor vehicles can only be in the park during operating hours. However, travel by bike along the entire route can be done from dawn to dusk.
Accessibility Information
About 3/4 of the trail is at least ABA accessible along paved and gravel roadways. There are sections where the slope exceeds ADA requirements. THe rough trail section along the base of Cerro del Medio is not maintained, so not up to accessibility standards.