I took my time, about 7-1/4 hours outgoing and 6-3/4 on the return. Wheels-rolling times were about 4-3/4 and 4 hours, respectively. It is possible to do it much faster. In fact, a few do the whole thing in a day. But age and common sense caused me to take it easy, hiking the bike when prudent and avoiding serious injury. My objective of staying upright was met, but the ocotillo and other thorny things along the trail gave the legs quite a workover.

There were some areas of abundant water, especially around Madrid house, with recent rains replenishing springs. However, none of the windmill stock tanks except one had any water, so it’s important to take enough water to be independent. Each day I started out with 5 liters and used 3-1/2. Had the weather been warmer, all of the water would have been used, so I probably would have needed to take another liter. Here is a list of the stuff I took for the ride.

Overnight accommodations are available at Saucedo. There is a bunkhouse with clean bedding, showers, towels, and cooking facilities (but no food), all for $35.00 plus park fee. The bunkhouse has two single beds each in several cubicles with separate quarters for men and women.

I saw no one on the trails for two days. The park ranger at Warnock Center (the start) took all my important information and emailed it to the ranger station at the other end (Saucedo), and they were expecting me. The same was done on the return.

Very little wildlife was to be seen, just one deer and no signs of bear or lion (thankfully), although both are in the park.

December weather was perfect for riding: mid 60’s, sunny, light breezes.

Doing the loop again is always a possibility, but the chances are growing dimmer with each passing year!

The photos below were taken with a Sony RSX-100III and iPhone 4S.