A casual 31 mile ride through El Paso's Mission Valley. Ride departs from Cotton Eyed Joe's Restaurant and the Adobe Motel, at I-10 exit 42. Descend into the valley where you connect with North Loop Drive. Head south toward the town of Fabens and intersect with Alameda Avenue. The convienence store at the intersection of North Loop and Alameda in Fabens is a good spot to regroup and use the facilities. From there head south on Alameda to RC Elem Road. Turn right on RC Elem Road and follow the route back to the town of San Elizario. The ride will take you along farm roads lined with pecan orchards and fields of cotton, chile and onion. In the spring and fall the farm fields offer a welcome stop for a large variety of migratory birds.
In San Elizaro take a break in the town square and visit the chapel of San Elizario, originally constructed in 1789. San Elizario is the site where in 1598 Juan de Oñate and his followers celebrated the first Thanksgiving on land now in the United States. On many weekends, especially Sunday, local artisans display arts and crafts around the town plaza. Visit the museum and explore the old El Paso County jail, famous for the escape of Billy the Kid.
Return to Cotton Eyed Joes and refuel on a generous serving of huevos rancheros, a local favorite.