Las Cruces Day Rides info wanted

[rmcobb]

We're packing up the RV to head to the MotoGP races in Austin Texas. The FJR will be in the trailer, and our plan is to stay 3 days in Las Cruces, exploring southern New Mexico. I've looked at the maps and Google Earth and see some potential good riding, but is there any feedback on any "not to be missed" riding around Las Cruces?

Thanks folks.

Randy

 

[scotlings8]

I live about an hr north of Las Cruces in Alamogordo...not too much riding down there, unless you like slab or flat desert. Whenever I go out, i make it a point to go into the Sacramento Mtns just outside of Alamogordo. Rt 82 will get you to beautiful roads that meander for miles through the mountains. Let me know if you want any other info, or if you even want to get together for a ride when you pass through.

 

[flagstaff]

There are some fantastic roads in the area. If you can stay in Silver City you'll have better access to these roads, and besides, Silver City is a much nicer area. Las Cruces is not a very scenic place. Anyhow, NM 152 is not to be missed. Pick it up near exit 63 on I25 or better yet, get off I25 at Hatch and take NM 26 west to NM 27 north to NM 152. Ride NM152 into Silver City.

The other great ride in the area is best done with Silver City as the starting point so I'll describe it from there.

Take US 180 north to NM 78 which becomes AZ 78 to US 191. US 191 used to be called the Devil's Highway when it was US 666 prior to a number change. US 191 is one of the best roads in the country. You'll head north past on of the biggest copper mines in the country and then you are in the twisties for mile after mile. You can reconnect with US 180 at Alpine, AZ and ride it back south to Silver City.

Let me know if you'd like more specifics on these routes.

 

[gixxerjasen]

I just posted up my whirlwind trinity site tour in the ride reports section. You won't be able to tour the trinity site but if you are into geeky stuff and astronomy, head north to Socorro and then head 44 miles west on 60 to see the LVA. It is quite impressive to see in person and the ride there isn't so bad either.