Leg 8: The 18 Miles of 66 thru Albuquerque... and a Mission or Three

Albuquerque, New Mexico

GS II - Leg Eight

The 18 Miles of 66 thru Albuquerque... and a Mission or Three

“It’s 1338 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we are wearing sunglasses... HIT IT!”

😎 Jake and Elwood were on a mission from... well you know who, and we are too. Our mission: to complete the remaining 18 miles of Mother Road, the longest urban stretch thru Albuquerque. We saved the best for last, sign wise that is. Back to that in a minute...

While in Central New Mexico we were encouraged to check out the Spanish Mission Ruins south of the ABQ. While not on Route 66, the ruins are part of an original Mother of all Roads”; The El Camino Real! At over 400 years old we were surprised by the condition of these historic structures. The desert has a way of preserving things, heck, even my spouse looks younger here... only about 2 weeks younger, but I’ll take it! 😂 

The three Salinas Pueblo Missions: Abo, Quivira, and Gran Quivira are well worth the side trip, if the “road” has brought you here.

Now, back to our story. Central Avenue (66) starts for us in the hills west of town. We make our way through traffic, alternating with each other for pictures of the former businesses, Motels, Cafe’s, and Service Stations that seem to outnumber people now. All but abandoned down to the Bosque, the name of Albuquerque's green ribbon that flows through the landscape with the Rio Grande. Immediately after crossing the river things begin to change. Vibrant colors of the Southwest and engaged patrons surround us. Old Town, Nob Hill, and the University District are alive. But just as quick as we arrived we are taken back to modern reality. This section is not for the faint of heart. Vintage automobiles and enthusiastic travelers has been replaced by homelessness and it’s challenges. Life on the road is not always Neon and Smiles.

We reach Mile 18 and a freeway on ramp. Joyfully we turn the bikes around and head back to the Grand Shamrock after one final spin on two wheels in this “Land of Enchantment.”

If you have been following along we have already covered the road to Amarillo. When we pick up again we will have ridden Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and some of Mizzou. 🏍 The color of the landscape will change, the hills will disappear, but the road remains the same. 

Note Elwood’s revised statement...

 “It’s 574 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we are wearing sunglasses... HIT IT!”

Thanks for reading!

Travel safe and we will see you out on The Mother Road!

Caroline and John 🍀