Red River NM Summer/Fall Vacation Guide

THE OLD RED RIVER PASS

The ride up to the top of old Red River pass is a little under 2 miles on a dirt road that is smooth and well maintained. The view is spectacular with a panorama of Red River and the Red River Upper Valley, as well as many major mountain peaks. Continuing on the old pass road will take you into the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area.

4TH OF JULY CANYON

At the top of the old Red River pass is the turnoff toward the 4th of July Canyon ride. Turn right (clearly marked) and with a little more climbing it will take you down through Foster Park and into 4th of July Canyon. It is a little over 4 miles down through the canyon, and then you will have around 7 miles to travel back to Red River on Highway 578.

WILD RIVERS

Wild Rivers ride is on the high desert and travels along the Rio Grande Gorge. This ride is great for all ability level riders. The single track trail is relatively level and well maintained. One of the best trails to ride is about 6 miles long and starts at the Wild Rivers Ranger Station parking lot. Trail maps can be picked up there at the ranger station. The views are spectacular, especially looking down into the gorge where the Red River meets the Rio Grande.

Some Basics For A Safe, Fun Ride:

The best rides start with a good plan. Consider whether the ride matches your physical ability, making sure not to overextend yourself. Start riding slowly to warm up and stretch muscles often during the ride. Start back before getting tired because the trip back takes strength and endurance, If you get tired, stop and rest. This prevents making harmful mistakes. Riding with a friend is always a good idea and can enhance the trip while increasing your safety.

What you wear and carry with you can make all the difference, especially when it’s needed. Start with a snug fitting, well ventilated helmet. Dress in layers in snug fitting pants that will not catch on the bike seat. Having a water resistant wind breaker will keep you prepared for rapid weather changes. Light riding gloves will keep you more comfortable. Water can be carried conveniently in a water bottle mounted on the bike. Maps of the area and a high energy snack can be stuffed in pockets. Carry a whistle, spare inner tube, patch kit, tire levers, mini-tire pump, allen keys, adjustable wrench or a multi-bike tool with a chain tool, towelettes and Band-Aids in a seat pack fitting under the seat or in a fanny pack.

Ride on designated trails only and always ride in control. Yield right of way to slower trail users, hikers and horseback riders. Respect the environment and always stay on the trail. Respect trail closures and No Trespassing signs.


		THE OLD RED RIVER PASS The ride up to the top of old Red River pass is a little under 2 miles on a dirt road that is smooth and well maintained. The view is spectacular with a panorama of Red River and the Red River Upper Valley, as well as many major mountain peaks. Continuing on the old pass road will take you into the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area. 4TH OF JULY CANYON At the top of the old Red River pass is the turnoff toward the 4th of July Canyon ride. Turn right (clearly marked) and with a little more climbing it will take you down through Foster Park and into 4th of July Canyon. It is a little over 4 miles down through the canyon, and then you will have around 7 miles to travel back to Red River on Highway 578. WILD RIVERS Wild Rivers ride is on the high desert and travels along the Rio Grande Gorge. This ride is great for all ability level riders. The single track trail is relatively level and well maintained. One of the best trails to ride is about 6 miles long and starts at the Wild Rivers Ranger Station parking lot. Trail maps can be picked up there at the ranger station. The views are spectacular, especially looking down into the gorge where the Red River meets the Rio Grande. Some Basics For A Safe, Fun Ride: The best rides start with a good plan. Consider whether the ride matches your physical ability, making sure not to overextend yourself. Start riding slowly to warm up and stretch muscles often during the ride. Start back before getting tired because the trip back takes strength and endurance, If you get tired, stop and rest. This prevents making harmful mistakes. Riding with a friend is always a good idea and can enhance the trip while increasing your safety. What you wear and carry with you can make all the difference, especially when it’s needed. Start with a snug fitting, well ventilated helmet. Dress in layers in snug fitting pants that will not catch on the bike seat. Having a water resistant wind breaker will keep you prepared for rapid weather changes. Light riding gloves will keep you more comfortable. Water can be carried conveniently in a water bottle mounted on the bike. Maps of the area and a high energy snack can be stuffed in pockets. Carry a whistle, spare inner tube, patch kit, tire levers, mini-tire pump, allen keys, adjustable wrench or a multi-bike tool with a chain tool, towelettes and Band-Aids in a seat pack fitting under the seat or in a fanny pack. Ride on designated trails only and always ride in control. Yield right of way to slower trail users, hikers and horseback riders. Respect the environment and always stay on the trail. Respect trail closures and No Trespassing signs.