Penitente Canyon

The current estimate for Penitente Canyon is PRIME: rideable now. No significant rain in the forecast. No measurable rain in the past week.

Loam currently estimates dry conditions (PRIME). No measurable rain in the past week.

Penitente Canyon sits on gravelly loam soil that drains fast. About 34% of this ground is rock fragments, so water runs through it faster than the soil type alone suggests. It dries quicker than plain loam.

Penitente Canyon usually needs about a day or two to dry after meaningful rain. Its terrain holds water in low spots, which slows it.

Drying time depends on how much rain fell and the weather that follows. Wait until the surface is firm. Check the current estimate before heading out, and turn back if your tires leave ruts.

Yes. At 8,071 ft, Penitente Canyon typically sees winter snow and freeze-thaw that can pause riding. Loam flags a FROZEN state when the ground is snow-covered or frozen, then clears it as things thaw and dry.

Penitente Canyon sits at roughly 8,071 feet, faces mostly SSE, and averages a 2.3° grade with about 0% tree cover. It is quicker to dry where it faces south, and the gentle terrain leaves low spots soft after storms.

Snow can limit riding at Penitente Canyon in winter, at around 8,071 feet. Spring snowmelt and fall freezes can also affect conditions. Its sunny aspect helps it come back fast after storms. Check the current conditions before planning a ride.