Ruidoso and Beyond: A Mesmeric Mountain Biking Experience in Mesa, Arizona

The breathtaking landscapes of Mesa, Arizona beckon riders to the Ruidoso trail. A pathway that promises beginners a feel of adventure and intermediates the thrill of challenge. It's a mosaic of dry wash crossings, sandy patches, and unique trail barriers. All these set against a canvas of panoramic views and rocky terrains.

Mapping the Ruidoso Adventure

Trail Specifics:

• Distance: 5 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Point to point
• City: Mesa
• State: Arizona

Trail Details

Starting with the Ruidoso, it's a beginner's paradise with just enough dry wash crossings to elevate the pulse. After conquering 1.2 miles, riders find themselves merging with the Spillway trail.Taking a short sandy jaunt on Spillway leads to the pivotal Meridian trail. Not far along the Meridian is the entrance to the Cat Peaks trail. For the detail-oriented:

• Trail Markings: Exemplary signage marks all trail junctures.
• Cat Peaks Challenges: Deemed an intermediate trail, it tempts with moderate ascends leading to the pass separating Cat Peaks from Pass Mountain.
• Natural Barriers: Logs and rocks strategically litter the trail, not only aiding in water diversion but also testing one's biking skills.
• Descent Thrills: Post the exhilarating climb, the descent offers equal adrenaline, all thanks to the natural barriers.

Post the Cat Peaks thrill, the Blevins trail awaits. Veering left leads back to the familiar Meridian trail and soon completes the mesmerizing mountain loop. To end the expedition, a right onto Spillway followed by a left on Ruidoso brings one back to the starting point at Meridian Road.

Navigating to the Trailhead

Usery Mountain Regional Park, enveloped by a fence, boasts seven access gates. For the more economical adventurers:

• The driving entrance from Usery Pass Road demands $6.
• But, the coveted gates, two of which grace the northern end of Meridian Road, charge a mere $2.
• The Ruidoso gate is the focal point for this journey.
• Locating Meridian is a cinch – it's nestled between Signal Butte and Ironwood on Hwy 60. A northern drive on Meridian culminates near the Levee Road turn-off where the trail access gate proudly stands.
• A fair warning: This gate lacks a pay station. While some altruists opt to pay for trail upkeep, many venture without and remain unqueried about passes.

Rider's Footnotes

The ride, though not overly technical, does surprise with sporadic loose rocks. The Cat Peaks Pass Trail introduces technicalities on both ascent and descent, regardless of direction.For those yearning for added fervor, post the Meridian trail, taking a right onto the County Line trail before Meridian Road is advisable. It's a downhill sprint that grows more complex with speed.

In Conclusion

The Ruidoso trail experience, paired with its sister trails, offers a mosaic of challenges and joys. From gentle slopes to technical barriers, it's an embodiment of Mesa's diverse mountain biking offerings. Remember to ride responsibly and savor every moment.