Bend Region - Rio Grande River Road - By Weestrom Rider

Highway 118 out of Big Bend NP was one of the single best rides this summer during a 6200 mile trip. The road has a 75 mph speed limit outside of the NP and almost no traffic. It is characterized by a mix of long, open stretches and curves that tighten down as low as 20 mph max safe as it winds around and over mesas. It was a sport-tourer's dream to dive into these curves at 75-80 mph while not violating the law. Of course, the scenery was dramatic and worth the ride alone. The only minor inconvenience was having to stop at an immigration checkpoint. Again though, with no traffic, we had the opportunity to shoot the breeze for a bit with Border Patrol before moving on. Great ride!