Stage 1: Los Alamos

Mesas, Canyons & Technical High-Desert Singletrack

Stage 1 kicks off in the heart of Los Alamos, starting and finishing near the Manhattan Project National Historical Park — a uniquely iconic setting where history and high-desert riding intersect. From the first pedal stroke, riders will feel the energy of this landscape: volcanic mesas, deep canyons, and forested ridgelines shaped by millennia.

This is a stage that mixes flow, technical challenge, and big views — a true introduction to Northern New Mexico’s character.

The Opening Climb: 3 Bears to Guaje Ridge

The day begins with a steady, scenic climb up 3 Bears, a trail known for its punchy rhythm and beautiful transitions from town into the higher forest. As you gain elevation, piñon and juniper give way to ponderosa stands and wide-open views of the surrounding mesas.

At the top, the course meets Guaje Ridge — a classic Los Alamos traverse that rolls along a dramatic spine of volcanic tuff. Expect airy exposure, memorable vistas, and fast, rewarding sections that make the climb well worth it.

This ridge is where riders fully feel Stage 1’s signature terrain: rugged, raw, and shaped by volcanic forces.

The Descent: Cabra Trail — Technical, Rocky, Iconic

From Guaje Ridge, the course drops into the Cabra Trail, one of Los Alamos’ most technical and character-filled descents.

Cabra is classic New Mexico riding:

• Rocky step-downs

• Loose tuff ledges

• Tight turns

• Quick decision-making

It’s challenging without being unmanageable — a perfect chance for skilled riders to shine and everyone to settle into the rhythm of the high desert.

Bajo Canyon: Smooth Relief & Desert Flow

After Cabra’s rugged features, the stage transitions into the easier, more relaxed trails of Bajo Canyon. These rolling, flowy connectors let riders open up their speed a bit, catch their breath, and enjoy the openness of the canyon landscape.

This middle section brings balance to the day — a chance to settle into the scenery before climbing back toward town.

The Return: Climbing Toward Town on Tent Rocks

From the canyon floor, the route picks up the Tent Rocks trail system for a gradual climb back toward Los Alamos. These trails wind through sculpted formations and offer a smoother, more consistent grade — a welcome shift after the early technical features.

Expect:

• Winding singletrack

• Soft forest textures

• Steady, rewarding altitude gain

• Occasional views across Pueblo Canyon

• It’s the kind of climbing that feels meditative rather than punishing.

The Finale: Technical Singletrack Above Pueblo Canyon

Before returning to town, riders will tackle a final stretch of technical singletrack perched above Pueblo Canyon. This last section blends small rock features, tight corners, and dramatic views — a high-desert sendoff before you roll into the finish line near the Manhattan Project Museum.

It’s a stage-ender that feels meaningful, scenic, and very Los Alamos.