El Cadillal - Tafí Viejo Trail (Route and farm)

Description of the Circuit

This cycle-touring route is very popular among MTB cyclists and is suitable for both individual and group outings. The high-contrast landscapes stand out, combining hills, citrus plantations and the water mirror in El Cadillal. The hydroelectric dam and other infrastructure make the circuit a very attractive experience. The route also has points where cyclists can enjoy local cuisine, the Tafí Viejo market, and several viewpoints.

Technical Details of the Circuit:

Distance: 48.9 km (can be adjusted according to the capacity of the cyclists)

Estimated duration: 3.5 hours

Elevation: 480 m

Minimum altitude: 522 m

Maximum altitude: 708 m

Type of route:

15 km of asphalt

35 km of consolidated rural road (in good condition)

Main Points of Interest:

El Cadillal Entrance Sign

Celestino Gelsi Dam (El Cadillal)

Hydroelectric Dam Gates

El Cadillal Amphitheatre

Chairlifts

Museum and bars in El Cadillal

El Saladillo Viaduct

Tafí Viejo Market

Distinctive Features of the Route:

The route includes a combination of asphalt and gravel, offering spectacular views. Along the way, cyclists can enjoy natural landscapes and impressive structures, such as the El Saladillo viaduct and the dam gates. The path is suitable for moderate cyclists, although there are some areas where caution should be exercised due to the narrowness of the route, especially at the access to the Viaduct.

Accessibility and Safety:

Starting point: Shell Station in Constitución Ave and RN9, San Miguel de Tucumán

Emergencies: Telephone: 107

Safety: There are no significant risk areas for cyclists, although in the Viaduct area, due to the narrowness of the route, one should ride with caution.

Recommendations:

Avoid riding on private property after 6:00 p.m., especially in winter, due to the lemon harvest.

In winter, do not start the route after 2:30 p.m. to avoid being left without natural light.

State of Conservation:

Route condition: Good

15 km of pavement in good condition and 35 km of consolidated gravel.

Some areas of the route to the Viaduct have no signage, so it is suggested to evaluate the possibility of placing information signs in this area.

The route is generally well maintained, but the cyclist must be alert and respect local regulations in the area of ​​the viaduct and the private property.

Tourist Equipment:

There are several rest points along the route such as the Tafí Viejo Market and the El Cadillal Dam area, where you can find bars, stores, and small restaurants.

In El Cadillal, besides the bars, there are recreational activities such as chairlifts, markets, and rest areas.

There are several camping options, including in El Cadillal. You can camp in designated areas such as Las Moreras and other complexes near the dam.

Additional services:

Bathrooms: Available at the gas station at the start of the route.

Tire shop: At the starting point.

Hydration stations: At various points along the route, especially near the recreation areas.

ATMs: In El Cadillal and Tafí Viejo.

General Recommendations:

Physical preparation: Make sure you are in good physical shape, as the circuit combines paved and gravel roads.

Equipment: It is advisable to carry a spare tube, patches, and liquids for hydration.

Caution in narrow areas: The route to El Viaducto is narrow, so you should travel one at a time, especially in winter when conditions can cause reduced visibility.

Suggested times: In winter, it is best to start the tour before 2:30 p.m. to avoid visibility problems on the way back.

Beware of animals: Although it is not a particularly dangerous place, it is always important to be aware of any animals on the road, especially if you are traveling in areas close to citrus farms.

This circuit is an excellent option for moderate-level cyclists looking to enjoy a day of nature and adventure, combining asphalt, gravel, beautiful landscapes and outstanding tourist spots in the region.

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