4.5La Luz Trail(249 reviews) - Strenuous.... and stunning Hiking Trails
Like all the trails rising from the city of Albuquerque to the top of the Sandia Crest, the La Luz trail climbs at a significant rate. You may need to pace yourself if you're coming from sea level. No need to worry, you're not committed; you can just go as far as you can handle and turn around and come back. Have your camera ready; there's a new aspect and a new view around every corner, some up at the mountain, some back out over the desert, and some of just the woods you're in. Beware of ice in the shady spots in the winter months, especially on steep grades where a slip can go very wrong.See more..
4.5Tsankawi(207 reviews) - Saved the Best for Last! Hiking Trails • Educational sites
After a long day exploring the Bandelier National Monument Loop and Falls trails we decided to check out the Tsankawi Ruins in the Los Alamos/White Rock vicinity. It was a great decision. With just a few hours left before dusk, we had plenty of time to explore these unique Indian trails, petroglyphs, and cave dwellings. And we practically had the park to ourselves. Incredible views, cool breezes, and a new appreciation of the ways that these Ancestral Puebloans lived are the memories we take. Only disappointment was that the Trail Guide box was empty so you might want to access a guide online before you go. Don't miss it in any case.See more..
4.5Catwalk Trail(180 reviews) - Magnificent short hike with splendid views and sounds! Hiking Trails
From US 180, turn right on Catwalk Road, also known as NM Rte. 174. The trailhead is at the end of the narrow, winding, and dip-filled road, about 5 miles away.See more..
5.0Canyon Trail(158 reviews) - Great hike Hiking Trails
If you look for short hike don’t require staying in the tent - just go there. Great view along the hike, beautiful scenery and not too crowded. See more..
We really enjoyed exploring the Dale Ball Trails. We went early in the morning so it was not too hot. If you go later in the day make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. It can get really hot. See more..
4.5Goose Lake Trail(145 reviews) - What a wonderful excursion Hiking Trails
Moderate to difficult hike, six miles one way.See more..
4.5Osha Trail(112 reviews) - Great way to experience the beautiful fall colors! Hiking Trails
Hike covered over two miles. Maples were beautiful red! Aspens were quaking and gorgeous yellow! You go up 300 feet of elevation and then back down 300 feet. Great views including the railroad trestle that carried timber down the. Mountain. So quiet on the trail!See more..
The trail is wide enough for about 3 people to walk side by side. It is made of small gravel and packed dirt surface. It could get muddy after a rain. This trail is about 1.5 miles in length and wanders around the base of the mountains. This is a great trail for kids of all ages and is a fairly easy walk with up some small hills. You are required to stay on the trail. There is no water available and dogs/ animals are not allowed. There are several places to sit along the way. There is no shelter if it rains.See more..
You start at the replica train depot. Pick up a map and things will go smoother. Trails 5001 and 5001B end up merging. 5001 is longer and you will encounter the sun, while 5001B is mainly in the shade. Both take you by a collapsed 60+ old trestle. 5001B takes you by an overlook with a good view of White Sands. There is a paved path 5001D that is handicap accessible and child friendly. Be sure to bring water!See more..
4.5Grindstone Lake Trail(49 reviews) - Popular Day Use Area Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails
In the Lincoln National Forest, this popular lake spot has hiking trails, swimming, fishing, and paddle boards. You need to pay a fee to park and enter, and it does get crowded in the summer. The hiking trails are beautiful and extensive. The lake itself is nice, but has very little shade to sit and enjoy. Either bring your own or bring some sunscreen.See more..
5.0Columbine Trail(46 reviews) - Easy trail and great for beginner hikers Hiking Trails
Approximately five miles one-way, this is a scenic and moderate-rated trail that leads hikers along a river and through meadows.See more..
4.0Caballo Lake State Park(42 reviews) - Stay and unwind Spent 1-2 hours National Parks • Hiking Trails
A great well maintained park with lots of walking trails that are not strenuous. Quite and relaxing. Rv spots were easy to get into with little to no backing up required . Also some nice boondock camping near lake.See more..
My husband and 3 year old daughter spent 2 nights tent camping at Bluff Springs this weekend. Beautiful, relaxing site for dispersed camping. There were plenty of spots available right off the road, and near the waterfall and little creek that runs from it, but we drove farther in and found a nice little private spot. There was traffic but nothing disruptive. There are vault toilets and a large dumpster right at the main rec area, but NO WATER so come prepared to dry camp. The last bit of road is rough dirt, but plenty of regular cars made it through fine. I would avoid it after rain though. Overall, easy to find and lovely. We'll be coming back in the future!See more..
4.5El Calderon Trail(23 reviews) - Lava, caves, volcanoes, prairie dogs and bats (What more do you want?) Hiking Trails
A great trail (5 miles or so, if you are planning to go in the summer, try early or late in the day) A well signed trail, through great countryside. This area of New Mexico abounds in stunning countrysideSee more..
Really nice well maintained flat trial. Beautiful views of mountains and river. Our pup enjoyed the about 3 miles loop walk. We bought our own bags but there were a few owners that were unprepared so watch your step. The entrance is off the main st. You may miss the dirt road that leads to the parking lot.See more..
4.5Rim Trail(16 reviews) - Great Views Hiking Trails
Parked at the second trail head. Wanted a short hike. We hiked about 45 minutes out and then came back same route. Trail is easy to follow, pretty rocky in places. Our trip started downhill so our return trip was pretty much all uphill. Moderately challenging. Didn't see anyone else on the trail. Very peaceful and beautiful views. See more..
4.5The Dragonfly Trail(12 reviews) - Also great for Mountain Biking Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails
The Dragonfly Trail itself is only a few miles, but it has great variety and excellent scenery, and while mostly novice level, throws some excellent features at mountain bikers. While mileage of Dragonfly itself is limited, it connects with a whole trail network where you can rack up the miles... or just do multiple laps on Dragonfly... it's that good.See more..
4.5Dog Canyon Trail(11 reviews) - Steep trail, with great views. Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails
I've hiked this trail several times and it's difficult for me at age 80, but worth it. The trail starts out with a steep climb .The south west face is in direct afternoon sun and can be very hot . I usually take two water bottles .There is no water past the trailhead. If you want a shorter hike ,return at the end of the first level meadow. Depending on your conditioning, plan two hours for the shorter hike to the meadow and return.See more..
5.0Piedra Lisa Trail(9 reviews) - Nice hike in the trees, great views Hiking Trails
Offers views of some of the Sandias' most spectacular granite formations. Trail leads to ridge called "El Rincon."See more..
5.0Pino Canyon(7 reviews) - Pino Trail to the crest, then over to the Tram Canyons • Hiking Trails
Peaceful hiking trail beginning in the desert and ending in a pleasant saddle with commanding views of the Sandias and surrounding plains to the east.See more..
Approximately 11 miles in length with an elevation gain from 6,240 to 9,300 feet, this tough trail takes hikers through a variety of landscapes from steep canyons to verdant meadows.See more..
Awesome trail. Went on this one after another. Not difficult at all. The kids loved it. And the weather mid August is beautiful. Keep small towns alive See more..
4.5La Luz(5 reviews) - Great hike, Great views Hiking Trails Traverses all four of the Sandias' life zones, from craggy rock formations to a long talus slope.See more..
4.5Sandia Trails(4 reviews) - 10K Trail was wonderful Hiking Trails
Great outdoor fun for the entire family, as you ride gentle horses along the peaceful banks of the Rio Grande River, much as the cowboys did in the old days.See more..
5.0Tree Spring(4 reviews) - Great Escape Bodies of Water • Hiking Trails
Shady and relaxing hiking trail that offers an excellent view of the Pino and Bear canyons.See more..
5.0Sierra De Cristo Rey(3 reviews) - Worth the drive and hike Spent 2-3 hours Hiking Trails
You have to want to get here, down a dirt road from a side street. It is a two mile walk to the cross, a bit strenuous. So grateful that this monument to faith is still standing.See more..
Short trail starting at the highway leading to an overlook with very good views of the Tularosa Basin and White Sands.See more..
4.5Deer Trap Mesa Trail(3 reviews) - Great Scenery And An Actual Deer Trap Hiking Trails Views of the eroded volcanic tuff are world class, though admittedly there are easier places to get similar scenery (Anderson Overlook is a roadside pullout on the way into town, for example). Near the beginning of the trail in a depression is an old deer trap, where the locals from a long time back would chase deer who would fall into the pit and be the guest of honor at dinner. After that comes a somewhat tricky scramble up a cliff and a completely civilized trail around the top of the mesa. Look all you want! Leave your fancy clothes and shoes at home. Wear a hat since shade is hard to come by and the sun can be serious any time of year.See more..
4.5Paliza Canyon Goblin Colony(2 reviews) - Unusual geological formations in the Santa Fe National Forest Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
There is an interesting and large formation of hoodoos, locally called goblins, just north of Ponderosa, on Highway 290. It is possible to hike to the goblin colony along Valecito Creek, starting at the turnoff to the Ponderosa Christian Camp on Forest Road 10 (a gravel continuation of Highway 290). The trail follows Valecito Creek, and comes up to the goblins from below. But it is also possible to drive there on Forest Road 10. Travel 2.2 miles beyond the bridge just beyond the Paliza Family Campground. At this point, you will have just passed large sandstone cylinders, about a foot in diameter, running up the embankment on your right, and will see two pine trees and the stump of a third on your left, one with a large swath of bark skinned away. Park here, and climb over the embankment on your right. The goblins will be visible down to your right almost immediately. You can climb down and walk among them, but they are crumbly, and should not be climbed. They extend for several hundred yards. On the drive up, stop at the pull-off at the S-shaped curve as you climb up from the bridge, and walk a few yards left from the road for an excellent viewpoint. You will immediately see "Dog Head Rock". We named it, but it could be called nothing else! The road may be closed at a gate above the campground, because the road is not cleared in winter. In this case, assuming the snow is long gone, the road serves as a way to take an easy hike--and there won't be any traffic!See more..
5.0Clear Creek Campground(2 reviews) - Quiet and clean spot for RV/Tent combo camping. Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails • Forests Excellent spot for RV/Tent combo camping. Cleanest campsite outhouse I have ever used! (Didn't even smell!) Water spigot available. Quiet. Great place for families with children. All campers respectful of noise and hours for generators. Privacy and good space between camp sites. Creek is just a trickle but it brings beautiful hummingbirds, butterflies, and robins near the campsite. You'll need your car to get to nearby trailhead #51 and San Gregorio lake (low water right now, but the hike in and around the lake is beautiful). You can also take a scenic drive through Jemez (I'd recommend taking a picnic lunch to take a break and enjoy the sites). We enjoyed our time and the quiet peacefulness of this campground. The camp hosts were friendly, checked on all sites regularly, and provided information on area hikes and attractions. Highly recommend.See more..
5.0Tesuque Peak Trail(2 reviews) - Enjoyed the views on the top Hiking Trails Located in the Santa Fe National Forest, this trail is used by cross-country skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts during winter, and hikers, mountain bikers and trail-runners in the warmer months.See more..
5.0Las Conchas Trail(2 reviews) - Beautiful. Jemez River and through a narrow canyon Hiking Trails
My husband and I hiked part of the Las Conchas Trail on a late Thursday afternoon. The trail was beautiful. We started the trail by walking along the Jemez River and through a narrow canyon. The blue river, tall trees, foot bridges, chipmunks and sounds of the water made for a peace walk. We made lots of stops to enjoy everything around us. A young family was rock climbing near the trailhead. A storm started brewing so we walked only about a mile. There was a very small parking lot at the trail head (along NM-4) and another small parking lot opposite the river (along NM-4). We spent about an hour on the trail. I did not see a place to pay a fee. Do not miss this trail or part of the trail.See more..
4.0Juniper Trail - Rio Mora Nwr(1 review) - New, Nice Forest Trail Spent 2-3 hours Hiking Trails This trail is brand new! Grand opening mid-October 2022. We were among the first to walk the trail. It is just great. As a new trail, it is well marked and lightly traveled. In places there is no real trail, just the flags and cairns marking where to walk. We really enjoyed our hike. The trail begins in the high meadows by the parking lot. It then winds its way up a ridge and into the forest. The path alternates between grassy areas and rocky outcrops. Nowhere is is difficult. About mid-way, there is a nice overlook and descriptive panel about the Rio Mora below. We saw little wildlife. But the Ranger indicated that there are bison in the area which can periodically be seen. We really liked the trail and would return.See more..
5.0Weathers Rv Park(1 review) - Such nice people! Bodies of Water • Parks • Hiking Trails
We needed a quiet place to spend the night with full hook-ups at a reasonable price. This RV park filled the bill in all categories. It was spacious with a view of the lake. When we pulled in, the owner actually came out to our RV to greet us, told us where to park and had us "check in" the next morning! There is a very easy walking trail along the lake in front of the RV park.See more..
5.0Agua Sarca Canyon(1 review) - Ever Changing Canyons • Hiking Trails A secluded hiking trail that climbs through the rugged canyon and is shaded with aspen and gambel oak.See more..
4.0Hawk Watch Trail(1 review) - Beautiful panoramic views Hiking Trails A conservation group called "Hawk Watch" built this trail at the southern end of the Sandias as a lookout from which to observe and record the passage of hawks.See more..
My husband and I hiked the San Diego Canyon Overlook Trail on a Friday morning. We arrived at 11 am to find an empty parking lot. The loop trail is very easy (ADA) and only 2/10 of a mile long. About half way through the walk, there is a beautiful view of San Diego Canyon. There was a pit restroom and two picnic tables at the trailhead. This is certainly worth a 15 minute stop.See more..
Las Vacas Trail(0 review) Hiking Trails The main trail inside San Pedro Parks, it splits off into more than 100 miles of trails.See more..
Telcolote(0 review) Hiking Trails Trail loops around a mesa and offers excellent views both of the eastern slopes of the Sandias and the vast plains that stretch east.See more..