When We Like to Ride This

Fall to spring when the skies are clear and the temps are moderate. We would avoid this route in summer as it is very exposed to the sun and could be quite sandy. Wind could also make this route brutal. And … if it has recently rained, give it several days to let the washes run shallower or dry.

Terrain & Riding

At mile 22, the route turns right towards Tres Bellotas Ranch / Arivaca on FS 216 instead of continuing straight as on the original route. The route then heads west on an undulating, Arizona paved road with little traffic. Many will find this section of road riding enjoyable and a nice break from the gravel. We drove this portion, we did not ride it.

At ~ mile 36.5 the route heads south on gravel reconnecting with the original route at ~ mile 41. We have not ridden nor investigated this section with “boots on the ground”. Thus, the designation of the route as a Development Route.

The Start

Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. Flush toilets, water and picnic grounds.

Lat / Long: 31.568756, -111.508168

Food & Water

• ~ Mile 28: The town of Arivaca,

Route Notes

1. The route comes very close to the border with Mexico and parts of the route are actively patrolled by Border Patrol. When we come across them for the first time in the day, we stop and ask if “there’s anything we should be aware of” and we also give them our route for the day. We saw no Border Patrol on our ride.

Have you ridden this route? Got a question? Join the discussion!