How to Prepare for Your Adventure
April 1–4, 2027 | Patagonia, Arizona
Ruta del Jefe is more than a bike ride. It's four days of adventure, education, and community in the Arizona–Sonora borderlands, an opportunity to explore extraordinary landscapes, learn from people working throughout the region, and connect with others who share a love for cycling and the outdoors.
Whether you're joining us for your first gravel adventure or you're an experienced backcountry cyclist, a little preparation will go a long way toward making your experience safe, enjoyable, and meaningful.
This guide will help you get ready for everything from Saturday's rides to life at basecamp.
Route
El Jefe
Sombra
Cinco
O
Adela
Distance
78 miles
68 miles
55 miles
45 miles
30 miles
Elevation Gain
6,000 ft
4,447 ft
4,969 ft
3,289 ft
1,859 ft
Terrain
Adventure
Gravel+
Adventure
Gravel+
Gravel
Understanding the terrain
Adventure:
Dirt roads and doubletrack with potentially steep, loose, rocky, uneven, and technical sections. Some hiking or walking your bike may be necessary.
Gravel+:
Dirt roads and doubletrack with some rough or challenging terrain, generally less technical than Adventure routes.
Gravel:
Dirt roads with less technical terrain, though steep climbs, loose surfaces, and changing conditions are still possible.
Choose the Right Route for You
Saturday's rides are a highlight of Ruta del Jefe, with five routes offering different distances, elevation profiles, and technical challenges.
All routes travel through the beautiful and rugged Sky Islands region. Expect a combination of remote dirt roads, climbing, descending, and terrain that may feel very different from what you're accustomed to riding.