Ojitos to El Nogal Loop ("Ojelno Loop")

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Not Allowed

Affectionately called the "Ojelno!" loop, this route gives you the infamous technical El Nogal descent of the South Boundary Trail after a relentless climb up the Ojitos Trail #166. It is a great leg burner for a "quick" workout or a way to pre-ride the El Nogal rock gardens before tackling the SBT in its entirety.

The drainage berms along the Ojitos climb are irresistible launch ramps for local hucksters. Beware of downhill traffic.

Start at the El Nogal trailhead as if you were riding the South Boundary Trail #164. At the T-intersection, turn right on the South Boundary Connector #164B for a steep quarter-mile descent. Hang a hard left onto the Ojitos Trail #166 (look for the 'No Vehicles' sign).

Follow the doubletrack past the start of the Talpa Traverse Trail (singletrack heading down and to the right) until you cross the Ojitos gully and begin the 1,000' relentless climb over dozens of drainage berms. The route has some loose rock and may have mud on the uphill side of berms depending on conditions.

At the top of the climb, the road traverses right (south) across the ridge to a three-way intersection and a rocky point overlooking town. Take the sharp left to continue up the doubletrack for a punchy half-mile climb followed by a 1.5 mile traverse to the South Boundary Trail #164 log-drop intersection.

The singletrack heading downhill (left) is the infamous El Nogal section of the SBT.

When you return to the three-way intersection, cut hard right back to the trailhead.