New Mexico Bump N' Grind

I think it was about 7 years ago, Cass Gilbert posted a route on Bikepacking.com called Apaches, Conquistadors, and a Bomb. It is a great route connecting many beautiful lands, rural towns, and notable sites from around central and Southern New Mexico. However, I always dreamed of a more ambitious route riffing off of the skeleton of Cass’ route. I had two goals in particular 1) to include more adventurous segments 2) have a route that started and finished at the train station.

I have a draft of my improved route which at this time I intend to call the NM Bump N’ Grind (name is subject to change). I have all the lines sketched out, I just need to get riding all segments of it. I set out with my comrade, Bailey, to ride the entirety of the NM Bump N’ Grind. 

Unfortunately things did not go according to plan. Due to challenging weather, time limitations, roads closed to the public and my own low morale, we ended up only riding a small portion of the route. But, it was fruitful as many issues with my intended route were revealed to me. We also were able to experience the complex traverse through San Lorenzo Canyon which will need significant work before I can recommend anyone complete this route.

The five long days I had planned to complete the route turned into 3 short days. However, I did snap some nice photos I thought I’d share. Please enjoy the photos and maybe soon I will have a route that I feel comfortable sharing with the world.