Climbing Highway 82 towards Cloudcroft from Alamogordo takes you on a dramatic journey, ascending from the stark Chihuahuan Desert floor high into the cool, pine-scented Sacramento Mountains. Prepare for a very long and sustained ascent over approximately 16-18 miles, gaining over 4,300ft as you climb towards the high-altitude village of Cloudcroft, situated near 8,700ft. You'll have to deal with relentless gradients averaging around 5%, though some sections through the canyons and switchbacks will likely feel steeper, potentially pushing 7-8%. As you ride, enjoy the spectacular views opening up behind you across the vast Tularosa Basin, potentially spotting White Sands National Park in the distance.