La Bajada Challenge

Long before Coronado and the creation of America, local natives traveled New Mexico using pathways that crossed the steep, rocky cliffs of La Bajada Hill. This rugged ascent later became part of Route 66 from 1926–1932, known for its 28-degree slopes and 23 hairpin turns—so steep early cars often had to drive up in reverse to keep fuel flowing. Nearly a century after the road was rerouted, La Bajada has eroded into a challenging, rock-strewn path littered with old car parts and barbed wire, making it difficult even for skilled dirt riders.

The La Bajada Challenge is a free event hosted by Breaking Away Adventures and sponsored by Parnall Law, Bobby J’s Santa Fe, and Hike the Good Hike. Riders compete in timed trials, racing their dirt or adventure motorcycles down and back up the hill, with three bike classes and point deductions for dabs, stops, and crashes.