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This section contains the singletrack, but this ain't your grandma's singletrack.


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Map Key

8.9

Miles

14.4

KM

Singletrack

8,499' 2,590 m

High

5,071' 1,546 m

Low

606' 185 m

Up

3,641' 1,110 m

Down

9%

Avg Grade (5°)

75%

Max Grade (37°)

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

Description

No offense to ripping grannies.

This trail has a few distinct sections. It starts with a steep, entrenched, and technical descent. It follows a gravel road for a bit before dropping into the epic 'Mars' zone. The ride is worth doing to hit this zone alone.

After Mars, there is a fast descent on some two track before hitting a section of relatively flat singletrack literally cut into the canyon wall. The vegetation limits exposure but it is still exhilarating. Don't look off the left end of your handlebars!

The final segments follow more singletrack, which is also used as a foot and donkey path by the farmers. There are lots of tight switchbacks that twist the trail down through the cloud forest.

As you near the bottom of the canyon, you encounter the Escalares de las Muertes (Stairs of the Dead) zone. There are a few routes through this zone since it is encountering lots of landslides and erosion, making the trail difficult to pass. Make sure to hire a guide or inquire with local riders familiar with this route to make sure you stay safe.

Shared By:

UnWise Owl

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 2 votes

#1

in Pichincha

#9101

Overall
  4.5 from 2 votes
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Trail Rankings

#1

in Pichincha

#4

in Ecuador

#9,101

Overall
2 Views Last Month
288 Since Mar 11, 2016
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Photos

El Duende shredding Mars with a giant smile.
Mar 9, 2016 near Calacali, EC
Abandoned house at end of downhill two track. Singletrack entrance seen at left of image.
Mar 9, 2016 near Calacali, EC
View into the canyon near the abandoned ovens.
Mar 9, 2016 near Calacali, EC
El Duende and the abandoned ovens.
Mar 9, 2016 near Calacali, EC
El Duende, navigating a tight jungle switchback.
Mar 9, 2016 near Calacali, EC
The ride ends at a stream. Enjoy the cool water. You'll probably have to hike about 1/2 mile uphill to meet your driver.
Mar 9, 2016 near Calacali, EC

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