Good trails?

[eyebmx]

First of all, is there a thread devoted to New Mexico trails (including location and pics)? If not that would be a exellent resource.

I am trying to find somewhere to take my girlfriend around Dec 10th. She was going to try to go on Tree Run with me but couldnt make either date. She is not into "wheeling" so nothing too technical. But would like to find a mellow trail and end up at a pretty location that is warm enough to sit and have lunch and enjoy the environment. Im looking for something reasonably close to ABQ (somewhere between south eastern Jemez, Cochiti, Madrid, or similar distance south of ABQ). I was thinking about the Cabezon trail, but never been out there and not sure how interesting it is. Are there any trails leading to a waterfall up around the Ponderosa area (not too far up into Jemez)? I havent been that direction in Jemez since I was a kid.

Any help would be much appreciated,
Josh

 

[SteveLCetc]

Here's a link to a bunch of trails, with ratings:
Trail Rides

As far as warm enough to sit and have lunch, I think this might be the wrong time of year for that... The Cabezon trail is kind of boring. Probably the best easy trail I can think of would be La Bajada (on Glenn's list above). It faces south so it will be as warm as anywhere. Otherwise (if it's too cold) you can head on into Santa Fe from the top and eat at one of the classic establisments around the plaza like La Casa Sena, The Shed, Blue Corn Cafe, etc.

As a side note - speaking of Glenn Bontly, when he sold his home in the east mountains, Ali bought it without even knowing him (I think).

 

[gr8wrk]

If you decide to go to La Bajada-
Take 25 N. to the second Cochiti exit (Rd 16). Then take take the 1st right on a paved road, that road takes you around behind the village. Take the first dirt road on the right and that will take you across the bridge and up the hill. I think that's right. I was just up there. Used to be able to take the first dirt road off Rd. 16, but it's gated and locked now.

You could also take her through the Cedro Peak area by Sandia Ranger Station, all pretty tame stuff. And there are some nice places to stop for lunch if it's sunny.

Have a nice ride.

 

[SteveLCetc]

I think that's right. You can't beat the views or history of La Bajada. It's the old Rte 66. The reason there is a little village at the bottom is because people used to drive to the bottom of the hill from Albuquerque on the first day, then they could take all day to get up the hill if they needed to. Lots of history - look it up...

 

[Cruisergreg]

I think that's right. You can't beat the views or history of La Bajada. It's the old Rte 66. The reason there is a little village at the bottom is because people used to drive to the bottom of the hill from Albuquerque on the first day, then they could take all day to get up the hill if they needed to. Lots of history - look it up...

Adding to Steve's comment, legend is that people would drive up La Bajada in reverse in their Model Ts because that was the lowest gear. Might be fiction but makes a good story.

La Bajada is actually two routes. Once you pass the bridge there are both a southern and northern route. Either is equally technical (but not very). Eiither route tops you out on the Caja del Rio where you can come out by the SF landfill (assuming there are not FS closures).

 

[Lovey]

Here's a link to a bunch of trails, with ratings:
Trail Rides

As far as warm enough to sit and have lunch, I think this might be the wrong time of year for that... The Cabezon trail is kind of boring. Probably the best easy trail I can think of would be La Bajada (on Glenn's list above). It faces south so it will be as warm as anywhere. Otherwise (if it's too cold) you can head on into Santa Fe from the top and eat at one of the classic establisments around the plaza like La Casa Sena, The Shed, Blue Corn Cafe, etc.

As a side note - speaking of Glenn Bontly, when he sold his home in the east mountains, Ali bought it without even knowing him (I think).

Thanks for that link. New to the area myself and always looking for places to explore. Gonna take a ride up La Bajada this weekend.

thanks again.
.

 

[eyebmx]

Yes, thank you for the feedback. Monticello looks pretty interesting for a mellow unique location.

Thanks for that link. New to the area myself and always looking for places to explore. Gonna take a ride up La Bajada this weekend.

thanks again.
.

You open to company? Or is this a special occasion with someone special?

 

[Lovey]

Just me and the wife going for a ride..your welcome to join.
Probably leaving Santa Fe around 11ish.
Going to take trail back to SF and end up in La Cienega area.