Overall Route Rating
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4.54 out of 5 Rider Rating 4.54
13 Reviews

Northern-Central NM Loop

Motorcycle Route Author

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By MCR Contributor (1039 McR Points) on May 14, 2011

Rider Reviews

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CheeseheadChuck
March 25, 2015
I was heading out to see the Grand Canyon from…
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MCR Contributor
1039 McR Points
May 15, 2011
rating would be alot higher except all the really…
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Written Directions

Start Albuquerque, NM. I-25 North to Bernalillo, exit 242 Highway 550. Highway 550 west to San Ysidro, NM Hwy 4. NM Hwy 4 north through Jemez Pueblo, Jemez Springs, Valles Caldera to Hwy 501. Hwy 501 through Los Alamos, San Ildefonso Pueblo to Hwy 285. Hwy 285 north to Hwy 503 east to Hwy 76. Hwy 76 east to Hwy 518, just east of Penasco. Hwy 518 south to Las Vegas, NM. Interstate 25 south from Las Vegas to Hwy 285, Lamy exit 290. Hwy 285 south to Hwy 41 to Galisteo, NM. In Galisteo, turn right (north) at the old church. Stay on road north until reaching Hwy 14. South on Hwy 14 through Madrid and Cedar Crest to Historic Route 66. Route 66 west to Albuquerque.

Scenery

None better, especially in the fall. Rocky Mountains, National Forests, and high desert. Route can be shorted or modified for any length and desired scenery.

Drive Enjoyment

Excellent in some places, a bit poor in others. Minor construction delays but worth it knowing the improvements are being made. Stretch from Sipapu to Las Vegas is EXCELLENT! Open the throttle and take in the scenery.

Tourism Opportunities

Plenty of gas stops and eateries along the way. Everything from hole-in-the-wall diners to fast food chains to upscale dining. Rider's choice. Personally recommend Plaza Burgers in Las Vegas. NM.
 

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CheeseheadChuck
March 25, 2015
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Touring
I was heading out to see the Grand Canyon from Memphis and I chose this road as one of my scenic route detours. Best choice I made on the entire trip. I rode the north part of the loop from Las Vegas to Rio Rancho. I thoroughly enjoyed the Carson National Forest, as well as Los Alamos. And the drive along the Rio Grande was spectacular as well. My thanks to the author of this route. It was one of the best parts of the 5,000 mile trip.
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5 riders found this road review useful
MCR Contributor
May 15, 2011
1039 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Other
rating would be alot higher except all the really good twisties are heavily occupied by slow drivers, scenery gawkers and cops. the scenery is very nice (esp on 4 and 536) but high traffic really ruined it for me (taking a 35mph posted turn at 5-10mph because of slow drivers really gets old fast) If you are lucky enough to go on a weekday in the fall the trees will be stunning, but watch out for snow/ice patches
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3 riders found this road review useful
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airhead
November 1, 2011
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring
One of my favorite NM rides. Beautiful scenery with lots of twisties. Try the Spic n' Span Diner in Las Vegas.
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2 riders found this road review useful