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Ride The Rails

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This is a wonderful back-country ride in remote hills following the old railroad line which once linked Oaxaca to México City. You will see sections of railroad track all along the way, and the trail crosses numerous old wooden trestles. The grade of the trail is consistent, with a moderate 2-3% slope throughout. The downhill runs continuous for 24 kms (15 miles). Fun! However, your butt will get sore on the seemingly endless uphill coming out – though the climb can be accomplished using just mid-range gears. This outing is best accomplished using a shuttle to haul bikes and riders 39 kms (24 miles) to San Francisco Telixtlahuaca (as shown on map) or somewhat further to San Sebastian Sedas. The route shown covers 62 kms (38.5 miles) round trip, with 823 meters (2700 feet) of elevation gain and loss. Allow an hour for the shuttle drive each way and 4-5 hours riding time. Enjoy!

Jeff and Darryle pedal happily along a mountain road.
Beginning the long descent from San Sebastian Sedas.
The trail variously runs alongside or on top of the old railroad line.
Cattle now wander where locomotives once ran.
There are numerous stream crossing on old wooden trestles.
Derelict rail cars appear scattered along the route.
The remote village of Olivera was once a stop on the rail line.
Only a few dozen people still call the place home.
The town does still have a miscelania serving cold drinks and snacks.
Streams from several mountain valleys converge
to form the Rio San Antonio downstream from Olivera.
Crossing yet another of the many old wooden railroad bridges.

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