If you are in the mood for a killer climb, then this ride from San Felipe (or Oaxaca) to San Pablo Cuatro Venados will surely put a smile on your face. It will also certainly sear your lungs and burn your legs!
Cuatro Venados sits high atop the ridge of the mountains that form the western rim of the Etla Valley, one of three of the Valles Centrales around Oaxaca city. There are stunning views from the sinuous dirt road that winds up from the valley floor. There is also an impressive waterfall in the ecotourism park a couple of miles beyond the village (where this particular ride ends).
This out and back ride clocks in at 48.5 miles (78 km) with an elevation gain of 6326 feet (1928 meters) for the round trip. Yikes! Better eat your Wheaties before you set out! The ride is rated “Difficult” because of the length, altitude and steepness of the grade. There are no technical sections to navigate, however, as the entire route is on paved or unpaved roads.
For another variation on a ride focusing on this area, see “Cuatro Venados Loop” ride on this page, above.
