Powered by Outside

South Boundary Trail water sources?

PB Forum :: USA - West
South Boundary Trail water sources?

 Post Message | Latest Comment
Author Message
flag monkytrick
Posted: Jul 26, 2023 at 21:05 Quote
I will be in Taos Aug 4-5 and I would like to do the self-served South Boundary loop. Is there reliable water in Rio Chiquito along FR 437? And are there any possible water sources along the trail itself? Anything else I should know?
flag BenLow2019
Posted: Jul 27, 2023 at 6:54 Quote
andy-legrunge wrote:
I will be in Taos Aug 4-5 and I would like to do the self-served South Boundary loop. Is there reliable water in Rio Chiquito along FR 437? And are there any possible water sources along the trail itself? Anything else I should know?

Sounds very interesting. Are you talking about this loop: https://www.trailforks.com/route/south-boundary-max/

Just looking at reports and comments doesn't look like there's much in the way of water. And I think you'll need more than water - electrolytes and food would be suggestions.

In any case, if you want to be sure you have the water and the electrolytes and food for the whole trip without having to carry it all I recommend planting a couple caches a day or two before your ride. Plan your consumption, double bag the water and food in plastic bags and then find a quiet location to hide them from random hikers and bikers. Review the route and see where you can drive in and drop supplies in one or two spots along/near the tail if possible.

I tried riding a 100K ride without using caches and it was very bad - I needed much more water and food than I'd anticipated - I ran out of both before I got to the end and I was dying. The next time I planted a couple caches and had more than enough provisions - way better experience.

Also, consider making it a multiday trip so you don't feel rushed to beat sunset. If you don't make a big ride into a multiday trip then I strongly recommend bringing at least a headlamp and just hope you don't need to use it. It is really frightening (and dangerous) trying to ride a trail in the dark.

Good luck.
flag BenLow2019
Posted: Jul 27, 2023 at 7:53 Quote
Adding to my last - try contacting the local trail organization. taosmtb.org

They seem active in the area and can give a lot better insight.

Good luck.
flag monkytrick
Posted: Aug 29, 2023 at 8:59 Quote
Thank you for the detailed reply. I am well versed in planning long, self-supported backcountry trips and I understand nutrition and electrolyte requirements. In my experience, caches are generally not necessary for single-day rides, especially if treatable water is available. Smart packing with the use of on-bike carry is essential.

I opted to postpone this ride until cooler weather prevails. I will reach out to local shops and trail groups at that time regarding water availability.
  • Previous Page
  • Next Page

 


Copyright © 2000 - 2026. Pinkbike.com. All rights reserved.
dv65 0.008993
Mobile Version of Website