River Run to Mesilla, NM

A classic weekend ride for El Paso cyclists. Depart early from River Run Plaza or Rio Plaza and head north along country lanes lined with fields of chile, cotton, onion and pecan orchards to the historic village of Mesilla, NM.

Stops along the route include Eagle Grocery in La Mesa, NM (mile 26) for water and snacks; Stahmann Farms (mile 32) for what may be the world's finest butter pecan ice cream; and finally the Bean in Mesilla to refuel for the return ride home. (try the green chile omlett) Word of warning, don't linger too long at the Bean as the prevailing afternoon winds out of the west and south can make for a tough ride home.

This is basically a 70 mile out and back ride so you can adjust for distance by changing your staring location anywhere along the route. If you start from River Run Place from mile 3 to mile 20 will differ from the route back.