CDT: Burnt Cabin Flat to Chloride Canyon (NM Sec. 11)

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Unknown

If you're in the area, you must add this section of the Continental Divide Trail to your short list. The ride is a remote and rugged backcountry adventure that affords incredible vistas of the northern Black Range.

If you have a capable shuttle, get dropped off at the southern terminus trailhead and ride back to Highway 59. While this option will require a higher clearance vehicle to manage the climb up Silver Mountain Road (FSR #226), this is a glorious way of riding the trail. The first 3.5 miles will be a robust climb onto the ridge line south of Franks Mountain. However, most of the ride from there will consist of fast and flowing downhill singletrack shredding.

Be on the lookout for downed trees during the late fall and winter months, particularly around the Lookout Mountain section of the trail and also look out for large sections of snow on the less-exposed sections of the trail.

Alternatively, you can ride the trail from the northern trailhead off of Highway 59 as this is the easiest way to access this section. You'll see a kiosk and Forest Service latrine. From there, you can expect several miles of climbing broken up by a few descents. The southern terminus of the trail near Lookout Mountain will cross Lookout Mountain Road (FSR #226A) and become a short section of doubletrack before returning to singletrack once again until it intersects Silver Mountain Road (FSR #226).