Our go-to quick get-away from Sierra Vista. Located in Ida Canyon, it’s a spot we call Happy Jack. During the hotter seasons, this ride will leave in the evening to reduce the amount of time spent in the heat. Lights are an absolute must and should be tested to endure the full length of the ride there with the possibility of delays. This route is by no means “easy”. The difficulty rating used comes from the perspective of a rider with a few bikepacking trips/overnighters under their belt. While this could be done as a first time ride, it’s recommended to ask, research, and train your body for the challenge. DO NOT hesitate to ask us any questions regarding what to expect. We will guide you as best as we can. After all, we were once in your shoes! Just a fair warning, be sure to not leave any food out for the critters…
Day 1: 25.8 Miles & 2,970 Feet of Elevation
Day 2: 25.8 Miles & 1,420 Feet of Elevation
Route GPX: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/51465325
Camp Description: Dispersed
Located Inside Ida Canyon with a few old ruins and mine shafts to be discovered. Abundant in critters, so be sure to safeguard your food! This is a very well shaded area with the possibility to use a hammock over a tent/bivy. The ground isn’t too hard to stake a tent onto, other than the occasional rock in the ground.
Food/Water Resources:
Food is available up until we pass Hereford Rd. while following the route. Water can be found as far as the Coronado Montezuma Canyon Visitors Center. A last resort would be the water Cache at the top of the pass, but it would be best to be properly prepared and leave that water for those in serious need of it.
Bike Recommendation:
This route can easily be done on any bike able to fit a 35mm tire or wider. Wider being the recommendation of course. The route is nearly 75% paved, but has steep grades coming up the pass and a chunky/loose descent coming down the other end. Mountain bike gearing will be appreciated and wider tires will ensure a comfortable and controlled descent. That said, an experienced rider may be just fine on a less ideal rig. Don’t forget to check your tubeless sealant and pack extra tubes. Those goat heads are out to get ya!
