The Quebradas Tour in New Mexico follows the 24-mile-long Quebradas Backcountry Byway. This unpaved road begins north of Socorro, New Mexico, in Escondido, with access off of US 25. It ends on New Mexico Highway 380, just outside San Antonio, New Mexico.
Along the route, you will find diversions such as the Quebradas West Moto Trail, two national wildlife refuges, and the state-run Ladd S. Gordon Waterfowl Complex. Wildlife and adventure abound on this day trip through the Quebradas Backcountry. Be sure to pack water, as no services are available on the route.
Wildlife, Birds, and Reptiles Along the Route
It is common to see wildlife such as coyotes, bobcats, gray foxes, porcupines, and opossums along the byway. The bird life is rich in numbers and variety, including the endangered whooping crane. In addition, you will likely find the sandhill crane, red-tailed hawk, roadrunner, horned lark, raven, and songbirds. Common reptiles spotted along the route include lizards and numerous snakes, including the western diamondback rattlesnake.
The Quebradas West Moto Trail
This old motorcycle trail runs through the arroyo–a steep gully formed by flowing water. The path is 1.6 miles long, rugged, and vertical in places. It has become a popular destination for mountain biking. Be on the lookout for loose gravel on this single-track route.
Sevilleta and Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuges
Two National Wildlife Refuges are within a short distance of the Quebradas Backcountry Byway and are must-see destinations on the Quebradas Tour in New Mexico.
The first, Sevilleta Wildlife Refuge, is north of Escondido in the town of La Joya. Take US 25 North until you see exit 169, then follow the signs.
The refuge is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Sevilleta is one of the largest wildlife refuges in the continental United States, and it is free to explore its many trails. Be sure to bring your binoculars for bird watching. The Visitor Center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. You may park near the entry gate and walk into the refuge when the gate is closed.
The second refuge, Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge, is at the byway’s end. Turn west on Highway 380 and follow it to San Antonio, New Mexico. You can participate in wildlife observation, photography, and discussions at Bosque del Apache. Seasonal hunting and fishing may also be available. Bosque del Apache is the perfect bookend for your ride.
Ladd S. Gordon Waterfowl Complex
The Ladd S. Gordon Waterfowl Complex includes four different locations across New Mexico and Colorado. The La Joya Waterfowl Area is 21 miles north of Escondido on US 25. The complex allows waterfowl hunting when it is in season. In addition, La Joya allows fishing throughout the summer and bird watching all year long.
Since both the La Joya Waterfowl Complex and the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge are north of the Quebradas Backcountry Byway in the town of La Joya, it is worth experiencing them both before beginning your run in Escondido.
We hope you enjoy riding the Quebradas Tour in New Mexico.
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