Enchanted Circle 2026

Enchanted Circle 2026

Presented by The Ride Collective
Road Cycling
Red River, NM
Aug 8, 2026
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About This Event

The Enchanted Circle follows the entire 85-mile Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway through Northern New Mexico’s high country, taking riders counterclockwise from Red River through Questa, Taos, and Eagle Nest before returning to the start. The route tackles two major mountain passes—Palo Flechado and Bobcat Pass—with the latter topping out at 9,820 feet, making it New Mexico’s highest paved road. The full loop delivers 6,000 feet of climbing, while century riders add an out-and-back leg to Angel Fire Resort for 7,000 feet total.

The terrain varies dramatically throughout the ride. Expect sustained climbs on both passes, rolling hills between towns, fast technical descents, and tight hairpin turns that demand attention. The high-altitude setting means thinner air and potential weather changes, but the payoff comes in sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and classic Southwest high desert landscapes.

Support runs deep with multiple aid stations stocked with hydration, fruit, and snacks, plus SAG wagon coverage throughout. Road marshals help manage traffic on the open roads, and mechanical support handles bike issues. The 7:30 am mass start gets everyone rolling before temperatures climb.

The weekend extends well beyond the ride itself. Friday evening packet pickup flows into Saturday’s Red River Fiesta, featuring live music, local food, and craft beer from Red River Brewing. Post-ride meals are included, and the expo gives families something to do during the event. Proceeds benefit the Red River Valley Foundation, adding community purpose to the challenge.


The Ride Collective

Event Organizer
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The Ride Collective is a series of professionally produced cycling events in Colorado and New Mexico, focusing on creating inclusive experiences for cyclists of varying skill levels. Formerly known as the Outside Events Cycling Series, it offers a range of road, gravel, and mountain biking events. Here’s a quick look at the key events they produce:

  1. Wild Horse Gravel (May) – A 65-mile gravel race through the scenic high desert in De Beque, Colorado, with 5,500 feet of elevation gain. This event is a favorite for gravel enthusiasts.
  2. Crooked Gravel (July) – Held in Winter Park, Colorado, this high-altitude gravel event features spectacular routes through aspen and pine forests with challenging ascents and exhilarating descents.
  3. Copper Triangle (August) – A classic road cycling event that covers a 79-mile loop through three mountain passes in Colorado, each over 10,000 feet, offering stunning alpine views.
  4. Enchanted Circle (August) – A scenic road cycling event in Northern New Mexico, this 85 or 100-mile ride showcases breathtaking views and challenging climbs through the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway.
  5. Tour of the Moon (September) – Made famous by the 1980s Coors Classic, this road cycling event takes riders through the iconic Colorado National Monument, offering epic red rock landscapes.
  6. Tour de Vineyards (September) – A relaxed, scenic road cycling event through the vineyards and orchards of Colorado’s Western Slope, this ride offers a choice of 58 or 75 miles.

These events provide a mix of competitive racing and casual touring, all set against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful landscapes in the U.S.​

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