Capulin Loop

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Allowed

Challenging, but doable 10.0 mile ride near Taos that includes big climbs, great downhills, and amazing beauty.

Head east on HWY 64 for four miles from Taos. Park at the intersection of Shadow Mountain Road and HWY 64. Climb about 1.5 miles on Shadow Mountain Road (Capulin FSR #10). Stay left at the fork to the Buddhist Retreat Center. After another 100 yards, or so, of climbing, veer left onto an obvious doubletrack, Capulin Road (FSR 10AA).

Climb steeply to a gate. Ride around the left of the gate and continue on the beautiful Capulin Trail #494 doubletrack. Climb another 4.0 miles on this doubletrack, enjoy the big views, and when in doubt, take the path more traveled. You are ready to head downhill after climbing 5.5 miles from HWY 64. Watch for a left option off of the main doubletrack. If you miss it, you'll just hit dead end pretty soon, so it's not a big deal.

Take that left option and enjoy the descent. This long downhill always makes my hands and feet scream! Choose downhill options at intersections and soon you'll pass through the gate and hit Shadow Mountain Road (Capulin FSR #10) again. I hit 44 mph once going down Shadow Mountain Road. Be safe and don't over-cook your brakes.