Abiquiu to Antonito, CO – 123 Miles

The final leg of the NMBDR is perfection, rocky mountain style. Up for one last challenge? Head west and then north outside of Abiquiú to arrive at El Rito via a scenic byway distinctive for a prominent ridge above Cañon del Cobre in the Carson National Forest (the route is less difficult if ridden north to south, as the rocky ledges are more easily descended, rather than climbed). Or, jump on Highway 554, the paved main road that leads to El Rito. Stop at El Farolito for an award-winning green chile burger.

The closing miles of the NMBDR are highlighted by an array of flowy forest roads that dance in and out of verdant meadows and deciduous canopies, a dazzling ushering in of colorful Colorado as the miles roll past. Please be cautious while cruising these high elevation roads, you’ll encounter all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the area. Once over the Colorado state line, the road eases down, down into the Conejos River Valley and on to the end point, Antonito.