The Land of Enchantment exhibits a quality of light that is almost magical and has attracted artists for hundreds of years. We will ride through the badlands where eroding red rock has created extraordinary shapes in the landscape. Dramatic scenes will unfold before you: cottonwood-lined river valleys, golden aspen covered hillsides, and dry, rugged canyons and mesas.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: We’ll meet in Los Alamos, for a bike fitting for those renting bicycles. Although it’s known as the birthplace of the Manhattan Project and the development of the first nuclear weapons, Los Alamos is more peacefully named after the Spanish words for "poplars and cottonwoods". We’ll have an orientation at 5:30, followed by a welcome dinner.
Day 2: Our first day of riding begins on the Pajarito Plateau through rolling terrain. We’ll stop at Bandelier National Monument where a short hike brings you to see the striking cliff dwellings and remains of ceremonial kivas of the ancient Pueblo people. Situated in Frijoles Canyon, it is one of the most famous archeological sites in the country. The ride ends at a stunning overlook of the Rio Grande River Valley. Then we’ll shuttle to our accommodations at the historic Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs where you can relax with an optional soak, massage or herbal wrap. 31 miles.
Day 3: We will continue riding through rolling countryside, exploring Georgia O’Keeffe territory as we cycle to the town of Abiquiu for a picnic lunch. 30 miles.
Day 4: We’ll begin the day with a tour of the former home of artist Georgia O’Keeffe. This unique 18th century hacienda offers a glimpse into the life of this outstanding woman. Today’s shorter ride will allow you the afternoon to hike around our home for the evening, the Ghost Ranch Retreat Center. Visit the red rocks of Echo Amphitheater. Experience the red canyons, majestic mesas and amazing skies that inspired O’Keeffe and countless other artists. 15 miles.
Day 5: Today’s beautiful ride takes us through the Chama Valley at the foot of the Cumbres Mountains. We should see some fall colors as we make our way to the banks of the Rio Chama River for our overnight. 46 miles.
Day 6: Challenge yourself (or not) with a century ride today and the week’s longest climb up to 10,500’. Bike through the pine and aspen forests of Carson National Forest and watch the terrain change later to open plain and scrub desert. We’ll bike to the artist community of Taos. On the way, visit the famous Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, the second highest cantilever truss bridge in the US. We’ll stay overnight in the heart of town and celebrate a wonderful week with dinner together. 45, 66 or 99 miles.
Day 7: We’ll end the tour with a nice ride to the quiet villages of Arroyo Hondo and Arroyo Seco. After a farewell lunch, we’ll say our good-byes and shuttle back to our cars in Los Alamos or to the Santa Fe airport, arriving by 3:00pm. 27 miles.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- 6 nights lodging
- 6 breakfasts, 6 picnic and sack lunches, 5 dinners, snacks
- Detailed cue sheets
- Van support and trained guides.
Also see tour packages in:
USA
New Mexico
Outdoor: Land Rambler
Bicycle Touring
Women Tours
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