Balsam Glade Nature Tr - La Madera Canyon Overlook
Balsam Glade Nature Trail Trailhead is within the Balsam Glade Picnic Site. The nature trail begins at an elevation of 8,620’ to 8,660’ for an elevation gain of 40 feet It is 0.3 miles one way and is a good trail to introduce to young and old, as there is little elevation gain and the rewarding view at La Madera Overlook is amazing. Along the path, to your right you'll find the steps of old YMCA Camp chowhall that operated from about 1935 to 1941.
Please refer to the Sandia Mountain Trails map to plan your course.
- The interpretive trail is a short, stand-alone trail within the picnic area.
- Cell phone coverage is not guaranteed
- Trail(s) are open for the following uses: Hiking
Reservations
Please Refer to the Balsam Glade Picnic Site for reservations of the group picnic shelter.
General Information
Open year round
- New Mexico Enchantment Pass
- Interagency Pass types accepted
Requires a fee or an amenity pass. If you do not have a pass, you may purchase one online, or look for the Pay Station on site. Envelopes for payment are in the box next to the fee tube. CASH OR CHECK ONLY at pay station.
Address: 11776 Hwy. 337, Tijeras, NM 87059
Phone: 505-281-3304
Hours: M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 35.21324419
Longitude: -106.40809905
Elevation
8,660 feet
Directions
From I-40 and Exit 175, drive toward Cedar Crest on N-14. Follow N-14 aka the Turquoise Trail, for approximately 6.5 miles, to NM 536 aka the Sandia Crest Scenic Byway. Turn onto NM 536. Balsam Glade is approximately 7 miles up NM 536 (about one mile past the base of the Sandia Peak Ski area). Turn right into Balsam Glade Picnic Area. The trailhead is just past the pay station.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are available at this site.
Dispersed and reservation sites
