Category: GPS

The Zapotec archeological site of Huijazoo sits on a hilltop just north of the town of Suchilquitongo, Oaxaca, México. Dating from between 300 and 800 AD, the site was first excavated in 1985. There are several temple platforms, a ball court and a central plaza. The most notable feature is a burial chamber containing the tombs of 60 individuals, with wall paintings, carved lintels and ceramic pottery. For more information see: https://lugares.inah.gob.mx/en/node/4417. The bike ride from Oaxaca centro to the site entails a round trip of 45.0 miles (72.4 kilometers), with an elevation gain and loss of 1765 feet (538 meters), most of which occurs on the climb from the valley floor to the hilltop location of the ruins. The final several hundred feet of trail is both steep and rocky, persuading some cyclists to walk their bikes up. The archeological site itself is rather small, but affords impressive views of the valley below and mountains off in the distance. Expect the ride to last about seven hours, with time for a brunch stop in Suchilquitongo.

The pleasant and prosperous village of San Antonino steps into the spotlight twice each year – on Palm Sunday when the residents stage a massive procession from the cemetery to the church in the town square; and again on November 3 when townspeople place lavish floral decorations on the graves of their ancestors in preparation for an all night vigil in celebration of Day of the Dead. Both of these events draw visitors from surrounding places and are social highlights of the year. A round trip bike ride from Oaxaca to San Antonino covers 52.7 miles (85 kms) through mostly level terrain, using a network of unpaved country roads to avoid traffic on highways. (The map below shows the route going just one way.) Riders were duly impressed by the elaborate floral decorations placed on gravesites, and enjoyed lunch at the many food vendors arrayed on the street in front of the cemetery. On this day in early November cyclists managed 15-16 mph riding south, but struggled to make 11-12 mph on the way home due to strong headwinds. The ride got underway at 10 am and wrapped up at 4:30 pm – a long but rewarding outing.