Weather

The following information should be used to plan your rides to account for the seasons, and length of day. Socorro resides in the Mountain Time Zone, and observes Daylight Savings Time (MST=UTC-7, MDT=UTC-6).

Socorro's weather is similar to Albuquerque's; just add a few degrees in the summer, and subtract a few in the winter. Be aware, though, that the difference between day-time and night-time temperatures is often as much as 40 degrees!

• Winter is generally mild with daytime temperatures in the mid-50's on clear, sunny days. Avoid the trails a few days after a storm due to melting snow and mud. High mountain trails may be under snow cover until mid-spring.

• Spring warms up quickly to the 60s and 70s. Days of high spring winds can make for a rough ride, however.

• Summer is hot! Bring plenty of sun screen and water as daily highs routinely reach 90-100 degrees with humidity less than 20%. Mountain trails are cooler. Monsoon rains occur in August and September, with short but often and heavy downpours. Watch for lightning and flash floods in the arroyos.

• Fall brings temperatures back to the 70s and 80s and riding is fabulous. Gully-washer rains can occur until late September.

These trails tend to get mighty dark (and considerably cooler) after the sun goes down. Use the riding times given in the trail descriptions to plan for a safe return before dark, or bring the appropriate equipment with you.