Moderate to Strenuous
31.1 miles/2187ft elevation
1.5-2.5hr
Looking for a ride with a bit of everything? Then you should seriously consider the Nighthorse Breen Loop. To begin your 50K ride start at Santa Rita Park turn right out of the park and head south on Highway 160/550 until you get to the first intersection. There is a wide shoulder and the intersection is less than 1 mile. Follow the intersection to the right and begin your journey with a climb up County Road 210. The road flattens before the next climb and to the left is the beautiful reservoir, Lake Nighthorse. Continue to the stop sign at the end of the road and make a left hand turn onto Wildcat Canyon Road, County Road 141. Continue west until you reach County Road 125 then turn right. CR 141 ends at State Highway 140. At that stop sign turn left. Stay on Highway 140 until you get to the intersection of Country Road 141 and Highway 140 and then turn left. Follow County Road 141, aka Wildcat Canyon Road all the way to Highway 160. This section is mostly downhill with a few rollers in between. Once you hit 160 follow the merge to the wide shoulder east into town. Stay to the right. Right before you cross the Animas River Bridge there is a pedestrian crossing and a left turn lane. Turn left and go over the pedestrian bridge to the River Trail. The River Trail will lead you back to your start. Enjoy the varying terrain, and the beautiful mountain vistas of the La Plata mountains. As always follow the rules of the road and wear your helmet!