Here's a bit of history about the El Dado Station...
The Star Line Mail and Transportation Company operated a stagecoach line that ran from 1876 to 1882 on a regular schedule between Prescott, Arizona, and Santa Fe, New Mexico. The route was rugged and covered 507 miles in 8 days. Starting on the Santa Fe Plaza, it headed south to Peña Blanca where it forded the Rio Grande. From there, the road crossed the Jemez Mountains and dropped into the Rio Puerco Basin. The town of Cabezon provided a rest stop for the coaches before they continued on to Fort Wingate and into Arizona. Halfway to Wingate, on an open flat, stood the El Dado Stagecoach Station. It has a colorful history…
It was originally called La Jara Station and because of something that happened in the 1870s, it became known as El Dado. It seems the station had a keeper, known to be a tough dude. He wore two guns and chewed tobacco. In one end of the building he operated a small saloon. Whenever passengers got off the stage, the keeper demanded that they roll dice double or nothing for their drinks. No one dared to challenge him, so they rolled as ordered and lost every time. The dice were loaded.
Soon the station became known by locals as “Loaded Dice”, but after a while it was called “The Dice” or “El Dado” in Spanish.
———— Ride Info ————
Arrive at the meeting point at 8:00AM. Because this is an All Day ride, we will be leaving on time at 8:30AM.
This is an easy ride suitable for any stock 4x4. Be sure to fuel up at the meeting point. The next gas station is 120 miles away. If your rig needs extra fuel, be sure to bring some. On the way back from Grants along I-40, we can stop at The 66 Pit Stop Laguna Burger for dinner!
After Airing Down…there is an optional fun steep hill to climb over. If you choose to do it, you will need to use 4-Low and Rear Lockers. I can never pass up climbing this hill! On top is a great selfie photo op with Cabezon Peak in the background. NOTE: This is the only Medium rated part of the ride.
Be sure to dress appropriately, bring plenty of water and snacks, Lunch and a chair, your camera, any medications you need for the day, and GMRS radios.
We will stop for lunch at approximately 12:00PM on the location of an old homestead along Arroyo Seccion. After lunch we will continue on to El Dado Station.
Well behaved pets and kids are welcome.
This is my first ride as a Trail Leader and is limited to 10 vehicles. It’s going to be a fun day!
This ride is limited to 10 vehicles and is now full. Use the
link above to see about a wait list.If you wish to go, be sure to fill out an Application Form to add youself as a potential NM4W member.
Be sure to have a look at our Trail Ratings information to know what you are in for.
You can also use our Photo Gallery to Search for photos from prior rides to this area.
NOTE: NM4W requires all ride attendees, including passengers, to sign a 'Release of Liability' waiver.
After you submit an Application Form, you can e-sign the waiver online before the ride.