A 40 mile loop ride in the Mesilla Valley north of Las Cruces with history at both ends. Start from the parking lot of the Mesilla town administration complex on Highway 28. Ride through the town of Mesilla and around the historic town plaza. Public restrooms are available on Calle de Parian on your right as you leave town.
Follow the route along Fairacres Rd to US 70 (Picacho Ave) Turn right on to US 70 and ride less than a mile to the first stop light where you turn left (north) onto Shalem Colony Trail. Climb slightly above the west side of the valley floor before descending down to connect with NM 185. Follow NM 185 north to Fort Selden Road, about mile 21. Turn right (east) on Fort Selden Road and ride up the hill a short distance to the entrance of Fort Selden State Monument, which will be on you left.
The Monument offers a muesem and a tour of the ruins of the old fort. Water and restrooms are available at the monument building. If you take your bike upto the monument building be on the lookout for thorns in the path from the parking lot to the building. Check your tires carefully before you leave.
Established in 1865 and abandoned in 1891 Fort Selden was calvery and infantry post built for the protection of settlers and travelers in the Mesilla Valley from Apache Indians and desperados.
Depart Fort Selden and back track along Fort Selden Road to the stop sign at NM 185. Take a quick left (south) on Dona Ana Road. This turn can be a little tricky as Dona Ana Road angles into NM 185 at the stop sign, check the map. Follow Dona Ana Road for approximately 10 miles to Taylor Road. Turn right (west) on Taylor Road. Follow Taylor Road across NM 185 to Northwind Road. Turn left (south) on Northwind and follow it to Southwind Road. Continue on south on Southwind Road which eventually becomes Roadrunner Lane to US 70. Cross US 70 and take the first right on to old NM 292. Follow old NM 292 to where it intersects with Motel Blvd (new NM 292). Turn right and follow the road back to Mesilla.
Refuel on coffee, baked goods and green chile omletts at The Bean.