High-Altitude Riding at 9,000 Feet
From epic singletrack through pine forests to scenic road climbs with views of White Sands, the Sacramento Mountains offer world-class cycling for every rider. Mountain biking, road cycling, and gravel grinding await.
From technical singletrack to scenic byways, discover the best cycling the Cloudcroft area has to offer.
New Mexico's first National Recreation Trail! This legendary route traverses stunning ponderosa pine forests at 9,000 feet with incredible views of White Sands. The trail is divided into three sections: Section 1 (11 mi) to Karr Canyon Rd, Section 2 (9.9 mi) to Sunspot Hwy, and Section 3 to Sacramento River Rd. Expect rocky, technical terrain with massive elevation changes.
Created for the annual High Altitude Classic race, this winding singletrack loop starts from downtown Cloudcroft. The first two miles are mostly downhill with fun technical portions, then you'll tackle two long climbs on forest roads before looping back to the village. A perfect blend of challenge and flow through beautiful pine forest.
A convenient loop combining Pines South (T568) and Pines North (T5688) trails, starting right from downtown Cloudcroft near Burro Street and Osha Trail Street. The trail winds through impressive forest with views to the west. Perfect for a morning ride before grabbing coffee in the village. Note: Trail passes through private property with posted permission signs.
One of New Mexico's most spectacular road rides! This paved scenic byway (NM-6563) connects Cloudcroft to the Sunspot Solar Observatory, winding along the western rim of the Sacramento Mountains. Expect stunning canyon overlooks with views stretching 5,000 feet below to White Sands. The route number honors the scientific angstrom measurement. Arduous uphill, exhilarating downhill return!
Also known as "Eight Mile Road," this is one of the most accessible gravel rides in Lincoln National Forest. The rolling forest road features sweeping views of distant ridges along the south side, with numerous old logging roads branching off for exploration. Perfect for gravel beginners or anyone seeking a mellow, scenic ride through the pines.
A diverse gravel adventure along a wide forest road with striking scenery at every turn. The route winds past the dramatic Mexican Canyon rock formations, crosses flower-filled meadows along Fresnel Creek, and opens to panoramic vistas from Toboggan mesa. Riders call it the perfect introduction to Lincoln National Forest's landscapes.
An epic descent from the Sacramento Mountains down toward the Tularosa Basin. The trail begins at the upper end on a narrow utility road passing through a large meadow, then descends through varied vegetation into pinyon-juniper woodland. This is one of the trails that can drop you from 9,000 feet down toward the desert floor for massive elevation loss.
A high-altitude bikepacking epic through southern New Mexico! This 154-mile route uses well-maintained gravel through Lincoln National Forest, offering respite from summer heat in the surrounding lowlands. Endless climbs along creeks, through aspen groves, and past elk herds are only broken up by tiny mountain villages. Home of the WeedSac bikepacking event.
At 8,676 feet, you'll feel the thin air. Take it easy your first day and stay hydrated.
High altitude means faster dehydration. Carry more water than you think you need.
Many trails are rocky and technical. Run tubeless or carry extra tubes.
Temps can swing 30°F in a day. Pack layers even on sunny summer rides.
Cell service is spotty. Download offline maps before heading out.
Limited parking in Cloudcroft. The USFS Office has a large lot with current conditions.
Bears and elk roam these forests. Make noise and give wildlife space.
Check fire restrictions and trail closures, especially in summer months.
Essential resources for planning your Cloudcroft cycling adventure.
Interactive MTB trail maps with conditions, difficulty ratings, and community reviews.
View TrailsOfficial forest service info on permits, conditions, and recreation areas.
Forest ServiceMulti-day bikepacking routes including the Rollin' and Tumblin' epic.
Plan AdventurePlan your Cloudcroft cycling adventure and experience world-class riding at 9,000 feet.