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New Mexico Backcountry Discovery Route

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If you grew up watching westerns on TV, the landscapes on the New Mexico BDR will bring back memories. It’s true Wild West with the history to prove it.

You’ll ride through areas where the notorious outlaw ‘Billy the Kid’ made history by eluding authorities and see the land the same way he did because not much has changed in many of these places. Wild horses, landscapes that roll on forever and the tiniest of towns highlight this route.

Beginning in Dell City, TX you’ll enjoy the Guadalupe Rim views on your way to the high-elevation historic town of Cloudcroft. Hot springs, and lakeside camping can be found on your way into the mountains of the Gila National Forest and you’ll even be a stone’s throw from AZ before heading back to the north east toward Colorado. Highlights include Chloride Canyon, long stretches between towns and endless dispersed camping options. The last section north of Abiquiu winds through high mountains with open meadows with groves of aspen trees and is as beautiful as it gets.

Best time of year: Late May/June and September/October. July and August are monsoon season with extremely high temperatures and not recommended.

Please Note: An updated version of the tracks has been added in April, 2023 with a revised Butler Map to follow.

The NMBDR is presented by Sandia BMW Motorcycles, with additional support from Santa Fe BMW Motorcycles.

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The latest version of the NMBDR map is the Third Edition, dated: 2023

SECTION-BY-SECTION

Dell City, TX
to WeedWeed
to CarrizozoCarrizozo
to Elephant ButteElephant Butte
to ReserveReserve
to PinehillPinehill
to CubaCuba
to AbiquiuAbiquiu
to Antonito, CO
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Dell City, TX to Weed – 153 Miles

The southern starting point of Section 1 of the NMBDR riding kicks off in Dell City, TX, a small farming community just across the border. The landscape here may be nothing to write home about, but hang in there, the Land of Enchantment awaits! Make sure to top off your fuel tank before leaving town, it will be a long time before you hit the next service station. Head north out of Dell City and you’ll end up at the foothills of the Guadalupe Rim, which is flanked by the Guadalupe Mountains to the northeast. Savor the warm weather while you can – before you know it you’ll be ascending 5,000 feet onto the rim itself by way of a short segment of incredible tarmac. Absorb the majestic scenery at the top of the Crow Flats Valley you just rode through, as well as the Brokeoff Mountains to the west.

Dell City, TX

Starting Gas stop. Some lodging through AirBnB.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park protects the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef, the four highest peaks in Texas, an environmentally diverse collection of flora and fauna, and the stories of lives shaped through conflict, cooperation, and survival. Come experience mountains and canyons, desert and dunes, night skies, and spectacular vistas within a place unlike any other within the NPS.

Dog Canyon Campground
Dog Canyon Campground, a part of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, is 20 miles southwest at the end of NM Highway 137. A good place to officially start the ride.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico. It features more than 100 caves, including the namesake Carlsbad Cavern. The Natural Entrance leads into the cavern’s Big Room, a huge underground chamber. The Walnut Canyon Desert Loop offers desert views, and Rattlesnake Springs, a desert wetland, attracts reptiles and hundreds of bird species.

Sitting Bull Falls
Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area is a long side trip to a waterfall and a day-use facility with water, restrooms, and pavilions. It is open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm and has a $5 fee to enter.

Guadalupe Rim
The Guadalupe Rim runs north-south and offers excellent views west from the edge. The NMBDR passes close to the edge in the south and again in the north. Stop when you can to take in the views.

Weed to Carrizozo – 171 Miles

Fuel up in Weed and point your cycle west through the Sacramento Mountains. Lovely primitive campsites dot the way throughout the entire route. Heads up: these roads may be impassable when they’re wet. Soon you’ll spy White Sands National Monument in the distance while traveling on West Side Road. The high country town of Cloudcroft happens to be one of the most iconic towns in all of New Mexico – we recommend spending a few hours here to fully soak in the charm. Enjoy award-winning apple pie at the legendary Apple Barn.

You’ll twist and turn through high-elevation deciduous forest and across numerous slow-moving streams en route to Ruidoso, an engaging mountain hamlet. The route continues north of town on its timbered trek before dropping into the Tularosa Valley and onward to the town of Carrizozo. If you’ve been experiencing bike issues, the ‘Carrizozo Bike Shop’ has an extensive knowledge of European and other metric-spec bikes.

Arrowhead Motel

Make your next vacation memorable and affordable with a stay at Arrowhead Motel & RV Park. Arrowhead offers a variety of clean, comfortable rooms, as well as RV parking facilities for you and your family. Single queen rooms starting at just $59

  • Address: 25999 US Hwy 70, Ruidoso, NM 88345
  • Phone: (575) 257-4241
  • Visit Website »

High Rolls

Home of the famous Apple Barn.

Anaheim Jack’s
If you’re looking for the best burgers in Ruidoso, New Mexico, you have come to the right place. At Anaheim Jacks, they have the most flavorful, mouthwatering and appetizing food for the whole family. They are family-owned and operated and since 2014, we have dedicated ourselves to offering great service and exceptional food at the best prices in town.
  • Address: 1097 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345
  • Phone: (575) 808-8340
  • Visit Website

Weed, NM

First place on the route to get gas, after Dell City. Weed just has a small convenience store.

Alamogordo, NM

Side trip.

High Rolls, NM

Home of the famous Apple Barn.

Cloudcroft, NM

The Lodge. Rebecca the Ghost.

Capitan, NM

A small town famous for Smokey Bear. Smokey Bear was a bear found with burnt paws in the aftermath of the Capitan Gap Wildfire that became a symbol for forest fire prevention.

Carrizozo, NM

Apache Point Stellar Observatory
Another great viewpoint, overlooking White Sands.

Sunspot, NM
Sunspot is an unincorporated community, located in the Sacramento Mountains, in Otero County, New Mexico, United States. It is located within the Lincoln National Forest, 18 miles south of Cloudcroft. Its elevation is 9186 feet. The Sunspot Solar Observatory and Apache Point Observatory are located in Sunspot in the Sacramento Mountains. The site of Sunspot is leased by NSF, from the Forest Service, and is operated and maintained by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy. The telescope and site are both open to the public, and the visitors center offers guided tours of the site on Saturdays and Sundays. On other days there is a self-guided 1/2 mile trail around the telescope and White Sands overlook.

The Sunspot Solar Observatory
The Sunspot Solar Observatory (SSO) is an astronomical observatory designed for the study of the Sun. The observatory is operated by New Mexico State University (NMSU) and the National Solar Observatory (NSO). It is split between operations at the telescope facility at Sunspot, New Mexico and data and management at the Department of Astronomy at New Mexico State University. The Sunspot telescope facility is in the Sacramento Mountains, approximately 18 miles (29 km) south of Cloudcroft. Access to the facility telescopes and grounds are open for to the public for guided tours.

West Side Road
Dirt route along the western facing Sacramento Mountains, great views of Alamogordo and White Sands.

White Sands National Monument
White Sands National Monument is in the northern Chihuahuan Desert in the U.S. state of New Mexico. It’s known for its dramatic landscape of rare white gypsum sand dunes. Trails through the dunes include the raised Interdune Boardwalk and the Dune Life Nature Trail, dotted with interpretive exhibits on wildlife and other features. Dunes Drive is a looped road from the White Sands Visitor Center to the dune field.

Ruidoso Downs
The city is the annual location of the All American Futurity, which claims to be the richest race in Quarter Horse racing.[10]

Ski Apache
One of the most scenic roads in New Mexico. Spectacular to ride.

Bonito Lake
Bonito Lake is an alpine reservoir located high in the Sierra Blanca mountains northwest of Ruidoso, New Mexico. It is a popular fishing and camping destination, and although it is surrounded by the Lincoln National Forest, it is not a part of the national forest. It is currently owned by the city of Alamogordo, New Mexico as their primary water source. Because of the high altitude, the lake’s temperature is cold year-round and is home to an abundance of rainbow trout. The area around the lake has several campgrounds with hiking trails and streams.

Fort Stanton, NM
Established in 1855, Fort Stanton may be one of the most intact 19th-century military forts in the country and is the best-preserved fort in New Mexico. Found just outside the historic town of Lincoln and surrounded by the Lincoln National Forest, the 240-acre site is best known for its roles in the Indian Wars and the Civil War.

Monjeau Lookout
Near Ruidoso. Side trip, worth it if a person has time.

Carrizozo to Elephant Butte – 155 Miles

Not long after a short jaunt on US Highway 380, the pavement changes to dirt and begins to turn north by way of a spectacular double-track. Take it ALL in, this is New Mexico at its finest! Please note: there are private ranches in the area – a safe and respectful speed is imperative to avoid losing the privilege of riding such a remarkable section.

Regain the highway about 35 miles down the road and head west and then south toward the White Sands Missile Range. This lengthy, quite sandy passage is appropriately named ‘Jornada del Muerto’ (Route of the Deadman) as there are no amenities for the next 105 miles!

Dam Site Casitas and Lodge

Lakeside cabins, hotel, RV Park, and marina managed by Lago Rico, Inc. The Historic Dam Site Recreation area is situated overlooking Elephant Butte Lake, New Mexico and is a unique gateway to explore the rich history, nature, and exciting recreational lake activities in the area.

  • Address: 55 Damsite Road, Elephant Butte, NM
  • Phone: 575-894-2073
  • Visit Website »

Elephant Butte Inn

The Elephant Butte Inn has all of the lodging and amenities to suit everyone’s needs, whether it’s for business or leisure. With captivating, sweeping views of Elephant Butte Lake, ample meeting and event space, and an outdoor pool, Elephant Butte Inn will exceed and redefine your expectations in every way!

  • Address: 401 NM 195, Elephant Butte, NM 87935
  • Phone: 575-297-4990
  • Visit Website »

Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort

Your window to Adventure. Park your RV here to ride the NMBDR. Enjoy riding hundreds of more miles of New Mexico’s backcountry while you are here. Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort offers 140 full hook-up sites with big rig, level sites up to 100 feet. 20, 30, and 50 amp service is available. We have daily, weekly, or monthly rates, covered patios with picnic tables and BBQ grills by the lounges.

  • Address: 402 Highway 195, Elephant Butte, NM 87935
  • Phone: 575-744-5996
  • Visit Website »

Elephant Butte Lake State Park

Ride right off the NMBDR and onto the beach for primitive camping and beautiful sunsets. Facilities nearby or even developed camping sites if you prefer. Bring your packable pole and catch a little dinner from all the varieties of fish in the lake.

  • Address: 101 Hwy 195, Elephant Butte, NM 87935
  • Phone: 575-744-5923
  • Visit Website »

Marina Suites Motel and Apartments

Located Minutes from Elephant Butte Lake State Park. Ideal for guests riding the NMBDR, or enjoying the Lake, or staying a while to see the other attractions in the area.

  • Address: 200 Country Club Rd, Elephant Butte, NM 87935
  • Phone:  575-744-5269
  • Visit Website »

Bigfoot Restaurant

Located by Elephant Butte Lake State Park in New Mexico, Bigfoot Restaurant specializes in burgers, sandwiches & vegetarian… with a wide selection of international wine, craft cocktails & ale. We also offer a dog-friendly area for pet friends!

  • Address: 212 Warm Springs Blvd., Elephant Butte, NM, 87935
  • Phone: 575-744-4896
  • Visit Website »

Casa Taco

Casa Taco is not fast food! They make all our food from scratch. Everything is cooked fresh when you order it. Casa Taco “Signature Tacos” are made on a griddle, which gives them that crispy goodness everyone loves.

  • Address: 704 NM 195 (Butte Blvd.), Elephant Butte, NM, 87935
  • Phone: 575-744-4859
  • Visit Website »

Krispy Krunchy Chicken/Cabana Grill

“A Krunch Around the Corner” Freshly Made, Perfectly Cajun!

  • Address: Fast Stop 6, 106 Rock Canyon Rd., Elephant Butte NM 87935
  • Phone: 575-744-5555
  • Visit Website »

Sierra del Rio – Turtleback Tap House and Grill

Enjoy a meal or a drink on the patio next to the beautiful Sierra del Rio Golf Course. There’s a Sunday breakfast buffet from 9am-1pm.

  • Address: 101 Clubhouse Drive, Elephant Butte, NM 87935
  • Phone: 575-744-4653
  • Visit Website »

Truth or Consequences, NM

Elephant Butte, NM

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge
The Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is located in southern New Mexico. It was founded in 1939 and is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It is a favorite spot to watch the migration of the Sandhill cranes in the fall.

Elephant Butte to Reserve – 162 Miles

Launch this section in Elephant Butte, a town that got its moniker from a striking butte in the nearby reservoir. Don’t miss out on the many thermal pools that nearby Truth or Consequences offers – it’s the best way to soak away the aches and pains from a long day in the saddle! The route moves north along the banks of Elephant Butte Lake, which boasts some of the most spectacular camping along the entire NMBDR. After bisecting I-25, the road climbs up and into the Sierra Cuchillo foothills of the Black Range and on toward Wilson. Stock up on fuel and supplies at the General Store and get ready for the optional advanced section through Chloride Canyon, a protracted technical section (you’ll cross Chloride Creek nearly 100 times in this section), before riding up and over the divide to Reserve.

This is arguably the most remote part of the NMBDR: if you aren’t a confident and skilled rider, we recommend skirting this section and hitting the pavement for 30 miles instead of riding the dirt. The following 100 miles escorts riders through high-elevation woodland, breathtaking scenery, and fast, rhythmic double-track. Pristine freshwater lakes accent the entire journey – pick a pool and take a quick, invigorating dip to clear your head for the rest of the trip.

Frisco Lodging Company

Each room offers you free access to Wi-Fi since we know you need some of the pleasures from back home. They know you’ll enjoy your stay with them, they even guarantee it.

Hidden Springs Inn

They say the grass is always greener on the other side, but if you ask us, the grass is pretty green over here. It’s beautiful. Peaceful. Everything you need to relax, unplug, enjoy……

Largo Cafe & Motel

A 20-room motel. Each room is clean and has two queen beds, a refrigerator, a microwave, and a coffee maker.

Mountaineer Inn

A brand new 14 room motel. All rooms have two queen beds, a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee makers. Also, Wi-Fi is available. Located on the edge of town along the Frisco River, just walking distance from the historic Uncles Bills Bar, as well as a couple country stores and restaurants.

Winston, NM

Last gas available until Reserve, about 130 miles of very remote country.

Geronimo Trail National Scenic Byway
Born in a quirky desert town built over bubbling underground hot springs, the Geronimo Trail Scenic Byway taps the largest reservoir in New Mexico before kinking its way through rugged, carved canyons, thickly wooded mountain passes, quaint villages and ghost towns to the nation’s first declared wilderness. Here, in the Gila National Forest, travelers may connect to the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway or retrace their steps back to I-25.

Chloride Ghost Town
The historic town of Chloride is located approximately 23 miles north of Kingman, Arizona, and 80 miles south of Las Vegas, Nevada, and just a short 4 miles off Highway 93. The historic town is located in Chloride, the oldest silver mining camp in Arizona. Stop by the historic town for a free afternoon of fun in the old west. We show a free movie about Chloride’s history and give out lots of free popcorn too. Be sure to visit the authentic museum set up like a home from the era of the late 1890′s. The historic town has a jail, an assayer’s office, an undertaker’s office, a saloon, a general store, a livery stable, blacksmith’s shop, Lavender Lace’s Boarding House for Fine Women, a bank, a schoolhouse, and a feed store.

Chloride Canyon
Chloride Canyon has a fun twisty road that passes by many different mines and petroglyph sites.

Beaverhead Workstation
Beaverhead Work Center is open with potable water and restroom facilities. There is no public phone service.

San Francisco Plaza Hotel
San Francisco Plaza was the name of three towns in Catron County, New Mexico, United States. Located in the San Francisco River Valley, the towns were settled by Spanish settlers in the 1860s.

Reserve to Pinehill – 166 Miles

As is common along the NMBDR, gas stations are sparse, so don’t forget to top off while in Reserve – the small service station in Luna is now closed. This route parallels Arizona, all it takes is a quick ride 500 feet down a fork to hit the state line. You’ll pass scads of Piñon and Juniper and catch glimpses of ancient cliff dwellings high along the cliffs. By and by, the track drops down into a high desert and then heads due north to US Highway 60 and the Zuni Reservation. An overlook near the Zuni Salt Lake showcases just how desolate and otherworldly this area truly is. There’s a wild and terrible beauty in western New Mexico unlike any other state in the Union.

Consider a visit to the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary in Candy Kitchen, across the street from the General Store, and where roughly 90 wolves are housed at any given time. It’s a fascinating learning experience and a donation will be much appreciated.

Pie Town, NM

Pie Town is located along U.S. Highway 60 in Catron County. Its name comes from an early bakery for making dried-apple pies that was established by Clyde Norman in the early 1920s.

Bill Knight Gap
Bill Knight Gap is a pass on Forest Road 19, located northeast of Luna in the Apache National Forest. The summit is marked with a sign and a cattle guard. The area is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular route for off-road enthusiasts.

Fence Lake, NM
Fence Lake is a census-designated place located in southwestern Cibola County, New Mexico, United States. As of the 2010 census, it had a population of 42. The area is largely ranchland, and there are few businesses there.

Pie Town
Pie Town is an unincorporated community and census-designated place located along U.S. Highway 60 in Catron County, New Mexico, United States. As of the 2010 census, it had a population of 186. Its name comes from an early bakery that specialized in dried-apple pies; it was established by Clyde Norman in the early 1920s. Pie Town has been noted for its colorful place name. Pie Town is the location of a “Pie Festival” on the second Saturday of each September. Pie Town is located immediately north of the Gila National Forest and not very far west of the Plains of San Agustin, the location of the Very Large Array radio telescope, which is also located along U.S. 60. In addition, one of the ten large radio antennas that form the Very Long Baseline Array of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory can be seen from U.S. 60 just east of Pie Town.

Pinehill to Cuba – 175 Miles

Viable camping spots are scarce along this leg of the NMBDR – any camping here must be viewed as a privilege and access is granted solely by the residents of the reservation. However, easily accessible camping is found just south of Grants inside the Cibola National Forest.

Epic views and a short section of primitive ohv roads bring you into Grants, a large town with plenty of access to fuel, food, and lodging. Outside of Grants, the route is very remote with long stretches of hard-packed dirt and the potential for some sand. There are several gates on this route so be prepared to open and close them behind you.

Ella’s Cafe

As good as you’re going to get in Reserve! Okay, that sounded sarcastic, but seriously, there ain’t much in Reserve.
  • Address: 96 Main St, Reserve NM 87830 (575) 533-6111
  • Phone: (575) 533-6111
  • Visit Website

Adobe Does BBQ

Adobe Does BBQ serves some of the best American daily. Bring your friends or family to experience this splendid environment.

Adobe Cafe & Bakery

Born in 2001, with the layoff of her husband from a closing local business, Jennifer looked into the future and wondered how they could feed their 1, soon to be 2, small children. She knew she could cook, and had worked in some food service before, and decided to try in a broken down “Little Adobe” building, which was afore destined to be torn down.

Rio Grande Grill and Tap Room

Rio Grande re-opened in 2013 with a complete facelift has never been more successful as one of Ruidoso’s best eateries and a very popular local spot in the front tap room.  All of SBBC’s brews are available along with a hand-picked wine list.  Our menu is available for dining in or to go.  You can also pick up six packs or growlers of our beer to take home with you – and don’t forget to grab some gear from our gift shop!

  • Address: 441 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345
  • Phone: (575) 808-8456
  • Visit Website

Reserve, NM

Grants, NM

El Morro National Monument
El Morro National Monument is a U.S. national monument in Cibola County, New Mexico, United States. Located on an ancient east–west trail in the western part of the state, the monument preserves the remains of a large prehistoric pueblo atop a great sandstone promontory with a pool of water at its base, which subsequently became a landmark where many centuries of explorers and travelers left historic inscriptions that survive today.

Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano
The Ice cave and Bandera Volcano are a privately owned attraction in the El Malpais National Monument. A fee is required to access the trails.

Oso Ridge Lookout
Oso Ridge is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2,660m (8,727ft) above sea level, located in Cibola County. At the summit is a lookout tower built in 1965.

Mount Taylor
It’s approximately a 700 ft elevation hike to the summit of Mt Taylor from the Water Canyon Trailhead.

La Mosca Lookout
Incredible views of 3 states from the top.

Views of Cabezon Peak
Cabezon Peak is a large volcanic plug that is a prominent feature in northwestern New Mexico. It rises to 7,785 feet in elevation, nearly 2,000 feet above the floor of the Rio Puerco Valley. Cabezon Peak is two miles south of the old ghost town of Cabezon and the Rio Puerco.

Cuba to Abiquiu – 78.5 Miles

This section starts off with an incredible climb up into the mountains, in an area known for its high density of elk population. Stop at Teakettle Rock for a selfie before turning back into the desert, with a scenic drop down the backside of the dam, and primitive desert roads that bring you into the town of Abiquiu.
This quaint town features great lodging, incredible food, and the Georgia O’Keefe museum.

Chama Trails Inn

Motel with covered motorcycle specific parking & laundry Chama Trails Motel is a family owned motel in Chama that is a great stop in for those on their BDR adventure. They are located next to the gas station and grocery store in town as well.

El Farolito

El Rito’s world famous El Farolito has people from all over the world blazing a path to a one of the first Spanish settlements in Northern New Mexico in quest of some of the best New Mexican food in the state, hence, the world.

Cafe Abiquiu

Café Abiquiu offers casual dining in a charming atmosphere adorned with the work of local artists. You’ll find seasonal and specialty espresso drinks, local beers, wines, and traditional Northern New Mexico favorites.

Bode’s General Store

Bode’s started as Grants Mercantile in 1890 as a general store, post office, stage coach stop, and jail when Abiquiu was the starting place of the Old Spanish Trail.

El Bruno’s Restaurant & Cantina

The closest, great, New Mexico Style Mexican Food in a Charming Atmosphere Since 1975!

El Llano Mercantile

Snacks, candy, drinks, beer and spirits, as well as groceries.

  • Address: 1177 Main Street, El Rito, NM 87530

Cuba, NM

Teakettle Rock
Teakettle Rock is a popular scenic rock formation. It is located on the south side of Forest Road 103. A buck and pole fence separates the parking area from the site. No facilities are located at this site. Please be aware that the land south of the wire fence is private. Do not trespass.

Abiquiu Reservoir
Abiquiu Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers managed lake, with recreation areas and a campground. The lake is a 5,200-surface-acre reservoir and offers some of the finest fishing in northern New Mexico. The area includes a fine panoramic view of the Cerro Pedernal (Flint Mountain) from the dam. The scenery of the area includes Pinon (Pine), Juniper, and Sage among colorful rock formations. Reptile fossils 200 million years old have been found in the area.

Ghost Ranch
Ghost Ranch is a 21,000-acre education and retreat center located near the small town of Abiquiu. Visitors enjoy hiking trails, museums, a café and gift shop, library, overnight accommodations, and camping. Ghost Ranch is renowned for the landscapes made famous by painter Georgia O’Keeffe.

Abiquiu to Antonito, CO – 123 Miles

The final leg of the NMBDR is perfection, rocky mountain style. Up for one last challenge? Head west and then north outside of Abiquiú to arrive at El Rito via a scenic byway distinctive for a prominent ridge above Cañon del Cobre in the Carson National Forest (the route is less difficult if ridden north to south, as the rocky ledges are more easily descended, rather than climbed). Or, jump on Highway 554, the paved main road that leads to El Rito. Stop at El Farolito for an award-winning green chile burger.

The closing miles of the NMBDR are highlighted by an array of flowy forest roads that dance in and out of verdant meadows and deciduous canopies, a dazzling ushering in of colorful Colorado as the miles roll past. Please be cautious while cruising these high elevation roads, you’ll encounter all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the area. Once over the Colorado state line, the road eases down, down into the Conejos River Valley and on to the end point, Antonito.

Abiquiu

El Rito, NM
El Rito was one of the first Spanish settlements in northern New Mexico. The oldest church in New Mexico is here, restored to its original splendor back in the 1980s. This is a beautiful little valley on the El Rito, surrounded by Carson National Forest. The National Forest has a Ranger District office in El Rito.

Elephant Rock Motorcycle Trails
Elephant Rock Motorcycle Trails are in Taos County near the Town of Red River, New Mexico, in the northern part of the Enchanted Circle of communities and are managed by the Questa Ranger District of the Carson National Forest. Access to the trail system is from three separate points of entry currently. One access is directly off State Hwy NM38 and requires parking along the ROW.

Views of San Antonio Mountain
San Antonio Mountain is a free-standing volcanic peak in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico. With an elevation of 10,908 feet, San Antonio Mountain is the highest peak within the Taos Plateau volcanic field, the largest volcanic field within the Rio Grande Rift valley.

Lagunitas Campground
12 campsites at 10,400′ in Upper and Lower Lagunitas areas are adjacent to breathtaking Cruces Basin.

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE

NMBDR PACKING LIST

This packing list serves as an example and is not intended to be a complete list for your backcountry riding needs. Feel free to customize this list to work for you.

  • Map holder / map case
  • GPS unit
  • GPS mount
  • Compass
  • Cell phone
  • Phone charger
  • Plug adapter: auto to BMW plug
  • Camera
  • Spot II
  • Notebook
  • Pencil/pen

NMBDR MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIPS

RECREATION WORKS

Bayard, NM

WEBSITE

With an extensive background in diagnostics, engine building and repair, electrical engineering, machine work, fabrication and welding Recreation Works can service or repair any Motorcycle, ATV or UTV. We offer everything from basic service and tire repair to more extensive and emergency repairs. Serving Silver City NM and surrounding areas.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below are answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about the New Mexico Backcountry Discovery Route.

The NMBDR is the sixth route developed by the Backcountry Discovery Routes organization for dual-sport and adventure motorcycle travel.  The NMBDR is a south-to-north route across the state of New Mexico covering over 1,200 miles of mostly non-paved track.

The route begins in the farming community of Dell City, Texas and finishes in Antonito, Colorado.  Traveling on the best backcountry roads, you will discover New Mexico’s scenic terrain including high-elevation forests, mountains, deserts and canyons. You will experience the unique culture and history of New Mexico’s rural towns, native reservations, historic locations & more.  The route also presents spectacular camping opportunities and highlights the state’s rich history.

The NMBDR has fewer hotel opportunities than other Backcountry Discovery Routes. Camping on the other hand, is plentiful. Official campgrounds are shown on the front of the map with a small tent icon and many more primitive backcountry camps can be found along the way. Because of the limited beds available in the small towns along the NMBDR, it is recommended that riders make reservations ahead of their arrival. Rooms can be found in Cloudcroft, Ruidoso, Carizozo, Truth or Consequences, Reserve, Grants, Cuba, Abiquiu.

There are many campgrounds and suitable dry camping locations along the route. The Butler Motorcycle Map for the NMBDR has a tent icon showing campgrounds on the route and many near the route. The NMBDR Butler Map is available at www.touratech-usa.com,  www.butlermaps.com and other fine retailers.

There are two sections where the distance is 153 miles. The first section is from Dell City to Weed.  Weed usually has gas but occasionally will be out. The second section is from Carrizozo to Truth or Consequences.  It too is 153 miles but you will find gas all the time in these two towns.  Carrying extra gas is strongly suggested.

In most cases camp fires are allowed, but check with local Ranger Stations to determine if campfires are allowed before you build one. Forest fires are a threat during parts of the year and the rules that manage this risk must be followed. Be sure to fully extinguish fires so they are DEAD-OUT. Use water to ensure a fire is fully extinguished and the ground is left cool and wet.

There are a few natural water sources along this route, however, depending on the snow pack, some may not be running. You can find potable water in the towns along the way.  It is suggested that plenty of water is carried for personal and cooking use. Here is a video on water filtration filmed in the Oregon Backcountry: http://youtu.be/vqOFZAoZdTU

Always bring a complete set of maps for the area you plan to ride. They have good information about roads, water sources, and are an indispensable resource when the GPS doesn’t work, or is giving questionable advice. Unplanned events can occur and having paper/synthetic maps of the area can be a life saver. National Forest maps are available at http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/map/state_list.shtml#U and local Ranger Stations. NMBDR Butler Motorcycle Maps are available at www.touratech-usa.com or www.butlermaps.com.

Any GPS unit capable of displaying 15 track logs with a minimum of 500 points each is suitable for use on the NMBDR. Garmin models that work best for this application are: Zumo 665/660, Montana, GPSMap 60, 62, 76, 78 and 276. Other GPS manufacturers may have units that will work. Check the technical specs to determine suitability.

The tracks for the route can be downloaded free of charge online at https://ridebdr.com/download-tracks/ .

Any bike that has a license plate, can run knobby tires, is set-up to carry the gear you plan to bring, and has the fuel range to make the distance between gas stops. Most adventure or dual-sport motorcycles will be suitable for the trip.  Choose the bike that you are the most comfortable riding in desert and mountain terrain.

The NMBDR route is designed to be ridden on adventure and dual-sport motorcycles, as well as driven in 4×4 vehicles. There are no single-track style trails on this route. Many of the roads are in remote areas and reach high elevation areas where road maintenance is minimal or non-existent. You can expect to cover sections of road with deep ruts, loose rocks, sand and other challenges.  Road conditions change from week to week based on the recent weather.  When you see signs that read, “Roads maybe impassable when wet”, use caution, roads become very slick and can be impassable. You may also encounter sections that have trees or branches over the road. Depending on time of year and weather, there may be a few small deep water crossings. Flash floods are frequent during summer storms.  Don’t cross flooded washes. Wait until water subsides.

The NMBDR is best in the months of June and September.  The route can be done in May, but snowpack in the high mountains may keep you from doing the entire route as mapped. New Mexico experiences summer monsoons in the months of July and August.  These heavy rains can keep you from riding the majority of the route due to mud and flash floods.  You can also ride the NMBDR far into November, but the days are shorter and you will encounter hunters.

New Mexico has fast moving thunder storms during the summer months.  These storms usually build in the mountains in the early afternoon and usually contain lightning, hail stones and heavy downpours. These storms can contain heavy winds with blinding dust storms.

DOT approved knobby tires (such as Continental TKC 80, Mefo Super Explorer, or Dunlop 606 are strongly recommended.

Most people average 150 miles a day on a backcountry motorcycle trip. Plan on doing this route in 8 -10 days depending on how fast you want to travel and how early you want to roll out of camp. There is a lot of history to see on the NMBDR so planning a little extra time is suggested.

Yes, there are several gates on the route. The route travels through several ranches where you will find gates open and closed.  Please leave the gates as you find them.

The highest elevations are reached in section 7, where the Los Pinos River access reaches around 9500ft. The NMBDR never stays up high until you get within 100 miles south of the Colorado border.

We do our best to post the most up-to-date information on our Route Updates Page. We depend on the BDR community to inform us about route and road conditions, so if you encounter any road closures or severe conditions that are worth reporting, please contact us with the information.

There is also a dedicated NMBDR Facebook Group Page. We recommend that you join the group prior to your trip to read trip reports and comments from other riders about their experience on the route.

Don’t forget to use our Interactive Map to get route conditions in real time. Read this Article to a quick tutorial on how to use the Interactive Map.

Yes the route can be done North to South.

Much of this route is remote and out of reach for cell phone towers. There will be long sections with no coverage. Your best bet is to talk or text in the towns or on top of mountains. You will be surprised where you get coverage and where you don’t. A satellite communication device is a good idea in the backcountry. Phones with Verizon service have more coverage on this route vs AT&T.

New Mexico is a habitat to many large animals like the Black Bear, Elk, Wolves and Mountain Lions. Safe food practices while camping are an absolute for your safety and the animals safety.  Here is a link to find out more http://www.centerforwildlifeinformation.org/BeBearAware/Hiking_and_Camping/hiking_and_camping.html  Rattlesnakes are also found throughout the state.

Rating the Routes by Difficulty

We are often asked if we rate BDRs by difficulty. We don’t officially rate the difficulty level of our routes as it varies daily due to current weather, road conditions, and other unpredictable factors. Difficulty also depends on individual skill and fitness level, bike and tire selection and load carried.

Some riders find sand to be most challenging, some find mountain passes difficult. Each rider’s perception is unique.

While we can’t provide a standardized rating like ski resorts, we can provide some basic guidance of difficulty level from most to least. This order does not include optional harder sections and implies favorable road and weather conditions:

BDR Routes: CABDR-South, ORBDR, AZBDR, WYBDR, UTBDR, COBDR, NVBDR, NEBDR, WABDR, NMBDR, CABDR-North, IDBDR, SEBDR, MABDR.

BDR-X Routes: Big Bend, TX; Red Desert, WY; Steens/Alvord, OR; Chattahoochee, GA; Black Hills, SD; PA Wilds, PA.

Review the FAQs for each route before your trip.

LODGINGFOODFUELMOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIP
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NMBDR LODGING

Make your next vacation memorable and affordable with a stay at Arrowhead Motel & RV Park. Arrowhead offers a variety of clean, comfortable rooms, as well as RV parking facilities for you and your family. Single queen rooms starting at just $59

25999 US Hwy 70
Ruidoso, NM 88345
Phone: (575) 257-4241

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Lakeside cabins, hotel, RV Park, and marina managed by Lago Rico, Inc.

The Historic Dam Site Recreation area is situated overlooking Elephant Butte Lake, New Mexico and is a unique gateway to explore the rich history, nature, and exciting recreational lake activities in the area.

Address: 55 Damsite Road, Elephant Butte, NM

Phone: 575-894-2073

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The Elephant Butte Inn has all of lodging and amenities to suit every one of your needs, whether it’s for business or leisure. With captivating, sweeping views of Elephant Butte Lake, ample meeting and event space, an outdoor pool, Elephant Butte Inn will exceed and redefine your expectations in every way!

Address: 401 NM 195, Elephant Butte, NM 87935

Phone: 575-297-4990

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Your window to Adventure. Park your RV here to ride the NMBDR. Enjoy riding hundreds of more miles of New Mexico’s backcountry while you are here!

Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort offers 140 full hook-up sites with big rig, level sites up to 100 feet. 20, 30 and 50 amp service is available. We have daily, weekly or monthly rates, covered patios with picnic tables and BBQ grills by the lounges.

Address: 402 Highway 195, Elephant Butte, NM 87935

Phone: 575-744-5996

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Ride right off the NMBDR and onto the beach for primitive camping and beautiful sunsets. Facilities nearby or even developed camping sites if you prefer. Bring your packable pole and catch a little dinner from all the varieties of fish in the lake.

Address: 101 Hwy 195, Elephant Butte, NM 87935

Phone: 575-744-5923

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Located Minutes from Elephant Butte Lake State Park. Ideal for guests riding the NMBDR, or enjoying the Lake, or staying a while to see the other attractions in the area.

Address: 200 Country Club Rd, Elephant Butte, NM 87935

Phone:  575-744-5269

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Each room offers you free access to Wi-Fi since we know you need some of the pleasures from back home. We know you’ll enjoy your stay with us, we even guarantee it.

42 Main Street
Reserve, NM 87830

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They say the grass is always greener on the other side, but if you ask us, the grass is pretty green over here. It’s beautiful. Peaceful. Everything you need to relax, unplug, enjoy……

2134 Hwy 180

Reserve, NM 87830

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A 20 room motel. Each room is clean and has two queen beds, refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.

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A brand new 14 room motel. All rooms have two queen beds, refrigerator, microwave, and coffee makers. Also, Wi-Fi is available.

Located on the edge of town along the Frisco River, just walking distance from the historic Uncles Bills Bar, as well as a couple country stores and restaurants.

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Motel with covered motorcycle specific parking & laundry Chama Trails Motel is a family owned motel in Chama that is a great stop in for those on their BDR adventure. They are located next to the gas station and grocery store in town as well.

Phone: (575) 756-2156

Address: 2362 HWY 17, Chama, NM 87520

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NMBDR FOOD

Home of the famous Apple Barn.

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If you’re looking for the best burgers in Ruidoso, New Mexico, you have come to the right place. At Anaheim Jacks, they have the most flavorful, mouthwatering and appetizing food for the whole family. They are family-owned and operated and since 2014, we have dedicated ourselves to offering great service and exceptional food at the best prices in town.

Address: 1097 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345

Phone: (575) 808-8340

Located by Elephant Butte Lake State Park in New Mexico, Bigfoot Restaurant specializes in burgers, sandwiches & vegetarian… with a wide selection of international wine, craft cocktails & ale. We also offer a dog-friendly area for pet friends!

Address: 212 Warm Springs Blvd., Elephant Butte, NM, 87935

Phone: 575-744-4896

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Hours

Mon: 11 – 3

Tues and Wed: Closed

Thur thru Sun: 11 – 7

Casa Taco is not fast food! We make all our food from scratch. Everything is cooked fresh when you order it.

Casa Taco “Signature Tacos” are made on a griddle, which gives them that crispy goodness everyone loves.

Address: 704 NM 195 (Butte Blvd.), Elephant Butte, NM, 87935

Phone: 575-744-4859

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Hours:

11am-6pm Sun 11am-8pm Mon Tues Thurs Fri Sat Closed Wed

Krispy Krunchy Chicken/Cabana Grill, Elephant Butte, NM (Section 3)

“A Krunch Around the Corner” Freshly Made, Perfectly Cajun!

Address: Fast Stop 6, 106 Rock Canyon Rd., Elephant Butte NM 87935

Phone: 575-744-5555

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Enjoy a meal or a drink on the patio next to the beautiful Sierra del Rio Golf Course. There’s a Sunday breakfast buffet from 9am-1pm.

Address: 101 Clubhouse Drive, Elephant Butte, NM 87935

Phone: 575-744-4653

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Open:

11am-8pm Mon-Wed-Thurs

9am-8pm Fri-Sat-Sun

Closed:

Tuesday

Pie Town is located along U.S. Highway 60 in Catron County. Its name comes from an early bakery for making dried-apple pies that was established by Clyde Norman in the early 1920s.

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As good as you’re going to get in Reserve! Okay, that sounded sarcastic, but seriously, there ain’t much in Reserve.
96 Main St, Reserve NM 87830 (575) 533-6111

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Adobe Does BBQ serves some of the best American daily. Bring your friends or family to experience this splendid environment.

95 B Main Street
Reserve, NM 87830

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Born in 2001, with the layoff of her husband from a closing local business, Jennifer looked into the future and wondered how they could feed there 1, soon to be 2 small children. She knew she could cook, and had worked in some food service before, and decided to try in a broken down “Little Adobe” building, that was afore destined to be torn down.

2134 Hwy 180, Reserve, NM 87830

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Rio Grande re-opened in 2013 with a complete facelift has never been more successful as one of Ruidoso’s best eateries and a very popular local spot in the front tap room.  All of SBBC’s brews are available along with a hand-picked wine list.  Our menu is available for dining in or to go.  You can also pick up six packs or growlers of our beer to take home with you – and don’t forget to grab some gear from our gift shop!

Address: 441 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345

Phone: (575) 808-8456

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El Rito’s world famous El Farolito has people from all over the world blazing a path to a one of the first Spanish settlements in Northern New Mexico in quest of some of the best New Mexican food in the state, hence, the world.
1212 Main St, El Rito NM 87530 (575) 581-9509

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Café Abiquiu offers casual dining in a charming atmosphere adorned with the work of local artists. You’ll find seasonal and specialty espresso drinks, local beers, wines and traditional Northern New Mexico favorites.
21120 Hwy 84, Abiquiu NM 87510 (505) 685-4422

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Bode’s started as Grants Mercantile in 1890 as a general store, post office, stage coach stop and jail when Abiquiu was the starting place of the Old Spanish Trail.
21196 US Hwy 84, Abiquiu NM 87510 (505) 685-4422

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The closest, great, New Mexico Style Mexican Food in a Charming Atmosphere Since 1975!
6453 Main 550 St, Cuba NM 87013 (575) 289-9429

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1177 Main Street
El Rito, NM 87530

Snacks, candy, drinks, beer and spirits, as well as groceries.

NMBDR FUEL

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Last gas available until Reserve, about 130 miles of very remote country.

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A small town famous for Smokey Bear. Smokey Bear was a bear found with burnt paws in the aftermath of the Capitan Gap Wildfire that became a symbol for forest fire prevention.

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The Lodge. Rebecca the Ghost.

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Home of the famous Apple Barn.

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side trip.

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First place on the route to get gas, after Dell City. Weed just has a small convenience store.

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Starting Gas stop. Some lodging through AirBnB.

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NMBDR MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIPS

RECREATION WORKS

Bayard, NM

WEBSITE

With an extensive background in diagnostics, engine building and repair, electrical engineering, machine work, fabrication and welding Recreation Works can service or repair any Motorcycle, ATV or UTV. We offer everything from basic service and tire repair to more extensive and emergency repairs. Serving Silver City NM and surrounding areas.

NMBDR DISCOVERY POINTS

While riding the NMBDR, we recommend visiting some (or all) of these places, selected for their natural beauty, photo opportunities, historical significance, or pure pleasure of discovery! (These waypoints are included in the NMBDR GPS tracks available for a free download on this page). Send us your photos from these discovery points to share with the BDR community.

(Listing South to North)

Starting Gas stop. Some lodging through AirBnB.

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side trip.

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Dog Canyon Campground, a part of Guadalupe Mountains National Park is 20 miles southwest at the end of NM Highway 137. A good place to officially start the ride.

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side trip.

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Store open sometimes. Gas station no longer open.

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A long side trip to a waterfall and a day-use facility with water, restrooms, and pavillions. Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area is open from 8:30 am to 5 pm daily and costs $5 fee to enter.

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The Guadalupe Rim runs north-south and has excellent views west from the edge. The NMBDR gets close to the edge in the south and again in the north. Stop when you can to take in the views.

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First place on the route to get gas, after Dell City. Weed just has a small convenience store.

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Another great viewpoint, overlooking White Sands.

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side trip.

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side trip.

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Dirt route along the western facing Sacramento Mountains, great views of Alamogordo and White Sands.

side trip.

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side trip.

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Home of the famous Apple Barn.

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The Lodge. Rebecca the Ghost.

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side trip.

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One of the most scenic roads in New Mexico. Spectacular to ride.

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side trip.

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side trip.

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Near Ruidoso. Side trip, worth it if a person has time.

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A small town famous for Smokey Bear. Smokey Bear was a bear found with burnt paws in the aftermath of the Capitan Gap Wildfire that became a symbol for forest fire prevention.

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side trip.

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side trip.

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Last gas available until Reserve, about 130 miles of very remote country.

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Chloride Canyon has a fun twisty road that passes by many different mines and petroglyph sites.

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Bill Knight Gap (NMBDR)

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side trip.

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The Ice cave and Bandera Volcano are a privately owned attraction in the El Malpais National Monument. A fee is required to access the trails.

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side trip.

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Its approximately a 700 ft elevation hike to the summit of Mt Taylor from the Water Canyon Trailhead.

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side trip.

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on the route.

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Ghost Ranch is a 21,000-acre education and retreat center located near the small town of Abiquiu. Visitors enjoy hiking trails, museums, a café and gift shop, library, overnight accommodations and camping. Ghost Ranch is renowned for the landscapes made famous by painter Georgia O’Keeffe.

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side trip.

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Colorado-New Mexico Border (NMBDR)

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