A downhill route near the city of Ibarra was the trail we decided to take this time. Among the locals, this area—inhabited by white-tailed deer, Andean bears, and pumas—is known as “Gallo Rumi.” Many cyclists refer to this mountain trail as “Dos de Todo.” The starting point of the ride is located after a small settlement named Añaspamba, along the Ibarra-Mariano Acosta road
Protective Gear and Clothing
Several sections of the trail are made up of abundant stones. If you want to go all out, use a full-face helmet and a chest protector. However, you always have the option of using a half-face helmet if your skill and comfort level allow it. The start of the route is at 3,789m, and a beautiful grassland will welcome you. If your body has a hard time keeping warm, wear pants and a thermal layer on your torso; long, waterproof gloves are a must as drizzles are common in this area.
Supplies
In the city of Ibarra, you can buy any drinks or food you think are necessary to take on the route; once you take the Ibarra-Mariano Acosta road, it will be harder to find stores. We recommend bringing at least 1 liter of water.
Transportation
Take a pickup truck from Ibarra and head along the Ibarra-Mariano Acosta road; the road is accessible (some parts are dirt and stone).
Riding Style and Technical Skills
This is a downhill track. It is not a route intended for beginners, but rather for intermediate level. You will enjoy the track more if you already have skills in riding narrow mountain trails, and descending on mud, dirt, and loose stones.
Physical Condition
Be prepared to pedal at least 5km, which includes climbs and steep sections. At the beginning of the route, you must pedal for 3km with a 100m positive elevation gain. If you exercise for at least two hours a week, that should be sufficient.
Distances and Reference Times for the Route
If you go from the starting point of this route to the parish of La Esperanza, it is 13.7km. This could take about 2 hours on average; however, at 11.5km, where the descent ends, a pickup truck could come in to pick you up. This way, you can avoid pedaling approximately 2km with a 100m positive elevation gain.
Ready to experience the ultimate enduro adventure in Cotopaxi?
Exploring the epic trails of Gallo Rumi is a must for every mountain biker. But to make the most of it, you need the perfect logistics: reliable transportation, expert local guides, and cyclist-friendly accommodations.
🚴♂️ At Rueda que Rueda Rides, we design personalized MTB experiences in Ecuador. Connect with the best services and get ready for an unforgettable ride.
📖 Plus, we’ve prepared a free guide with essential tips for cyclists visiting Ecuador. Download it now and plan your adventure like a pro.
📅 Book your experience and get your free guide here 👉 Rueda que Rueda Rides