Route Development: Development of the Monumental Loop has been spearheaded by Matt Mason, with collaboration from Jack Kirby, Dan Carter, and other Las Cruces bikepackers. Careful inspection of sandy arroyos often reveals tracks of mule deer, javelina, bobcat, and fat bikes… Coyotes announce their presence with erratic calling throughout the night but manage to disappear by sunrise. Raptors are an exception, commonly seen surveying for jackrabbits, kangaroo rats, and an expansive menu of reptiles. Some of these chemicals contribute to the deserts characteristic smell, especially after rains.Īs for fauna, it will take a sharp eye, or maybe even some night riding, to have a chance of glimpsing the desert’s animal residents. While most vegetation is armed with spikes, spines, or thorns there are a few species, such as sacred datura, broom snakeweed, and creosote bush that use a chemical means of protection. Velvety multi-colored flowers and sweet fruits define the family as much as spines. ![]() Even including the stout barrel cactus, which is capable of piercing a sidewall, cacti don’t live up to their fearsome reputation. Look out for the many species of New Mexico’s state flower, yucca, towering alongside ocotillo, both well above the multitude of cacti and grasses that carpet the desert floor. A basic understanding of its flora and fauna will help in your appreciation of its qualities. The Monumental Loop lies within the Chihuahuan Desert, a subtle and serene place. In terms of suitable setups, 2.4in tires work best given such a broad range of terrain – though 2.0 will certainly get you round the route, as long as you don’t mind a little pushing. This being the desert there’s a few stretches of sand and rocks to contend tackle the longest of these are found near Tonuco and White Gap Pass. ![]() In terms of singletrack, the Monumental Loop includes one of the longest sections of uninterrupted desert trails in the area – the 29 mile, flowy Sierra Vista Trail – as well as numerous stretches of Las Cruces’ local trail network. Thank you to all folks who not only took time to ride the original route, but also provided the feedback that eventually led to this updated Loop. The original route, now renamed The DangerBird, will remain an option for riders, or runners, who have the time and desire for such a demanding experience. There’s even a winery and hot springs available! Riders still visit all four units of OM-DP National Monument and pass by seven wilderness areas. Much of the sand and rocks were cut in favor of smooth ditches and increased opportunities for tacos in small towns along the Rio Grande. ![]() In an effort to increase accessibility, rider enjoyment, and help boost New Mexico’s efforts to establish a robust outdoor recreation economy, we’ve scouted and mapped some major reroutes. The route also sparked a bikepacking boom in Las Cruces and locals have embraced it as a valuable addition to the community. Unfortunately it left many riders struggling on faint trails and poorly maintained roads. First published in January 2017, the Monumental Loop was designed to be a full tour of Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.
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