This is a repeat of the ride we did in in January.
Meandering through Cañada Ancha from La Tierra to Old Buckman Road to Diablo Canyon, and ending up at Headquarters Well Trailhead near Caja del Rio.
This route travels through an area north and east of Caja del Rio, along parts of Old Buckman Road and the Camino Real areas, staying mostly within BLM lands. It can be very dusty with a few usually dry low-water crossings. Some of the higher spots offer exceptional 360 degree views of the Sangre de Cristo Mtns, Los Alamos & Jemez Mtns, and even Taos and Sandia on a clear day. Down below we will stop at Diablo Canyon, where you can often see rock climbers on the steep cliffs of the Diablo volcano. Finally we'll cross into Santa Fe National Forest for a few more hills and a quick loop near the Headquarters Well.
Approximately 48 miles, around 4-5 hours.
The route is mostly easy, rated 1-4, because of one or two steep hill ascents/descents, may be rutted off-camber sections and mud, depends on weather in the previous few days. We'll travel up and down hills, through arroyos, on seldom used two track trails, and even some graded dirt roads.
Stock 4WD vehicles with 33" min tires should be fine. You may want to use 4L in some spots, and there are some tight squeeze turns and short ditches, but pinstriping should be minimal.
Bring lunch, water, chairs, GMRS radio, and layers. Meet at 9:30 to air down, driver meeting at 9:45, hit the trail at 10:00. The meetup spot is about 1/2 mile off of 599, we'll end in a different place, about 3 1/2 miles from 599.
For more information on this Ride use the
link above to contact Matt with any questions.If you wish to go, be sure to fill out an Application Form to add youself as a potential NM4W member.
Be sure to have a look at our Trail Ratings information to know what you are in for.
You can also use our Photo Gallery to Search for photos from prior rides to this area.
NOTE: NM4W requires all ride attendees, including passengers, to sign a 'Release of Liability' waiver.
After you submit an Application Form, you can e-sign the waiver online before the ride.