Trails

The Black Kettle Loop is one part of the "Great Plains Trail of Oklahoma" wildlife viewing driving routes.

Uses: Day Hiking

Trailhead accesses dispersed camping area.

Uses: Day Hiking, Picnicking

This interpretive trail is located at the Black Kettle National Grasslands District Office. Interpretive signage depicts the settlement and use of the grasslands. A rock dugout house, a working windmill, and a native plants garden are on site.

Uses: Day Hiking, Outdoor Learning

Currently, Lake McClellan is dry. The lake is prone to drought and low water conditions throughout the year. The reservoir has gone dry several times since 2000. If you need more information, please call the Black Kettle Ranger District.

The Lake McClellan UTV/ATV Area Trailhead is located outside of the Lake McClellan Campground. This multiple-use trail system is approximately 10 miles in length with a difficulty rating of light to moderate.

Uses: Day Hiking, OHV Trail Riding

The Santa Fe Trail is located about 16 miles north of Clayton, NM. The trail is considered the first of America's great pathways from the Mississippi River towards the west. It was used by traders, mountain men, early settlers, gold seekers, and military expeditions. The Cimarron Cutoff portion is administered by the National Park Service and passes through the north part of the Kiowa National Grassland. It proved a historic perspective of pioneer travel, settlement, and life of the prairie.

Uses: Outdoor Learning, Interpretive Areas, Picnicking

The Mesa trail is 4.5 miles long. It begins at Mesa Trailhead On Forest Road 235 and ends at Loop Trail Back To Mesa Th.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The Six Mile trail is 5.5 miles long. It begins at End Of Forest Road 38 and ends at Forest Road 235.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The Coalmine Interpretive trail has been decommissoned. A new multiuse trail is currently under construction.

Uses: Day Hiking

The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) spans 3,100 miles across 5 states between Mexico and Canada. The Mt. Taylor Ranger District has a 45 mile section within the Cibola National Forest in New Mexico. Whether you are out for a nice day hike or hiking a longer stretch of the trail, the beautiful views of Mt. Taylor and the surrounding landscape of mesas and canyons will provide an enjoyable experience. Keep in mind weather conditions as you plan your hike. Please remember that Mt. Taylor is sacred to American Indians and to respect their beliefs.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking

Trailhead accesses 45 miles of Continental Divide National Scenic Trail on the Mt. Taylor Ranger District.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking

Trail #77 climbs approximately 2.5 miles to the top of 11,301 feet high Mt. Taylor. The change in elevation of around 2,126 feet makes this a challenging round trip hike of 4 to 5 hours. The trailhead is located in the mixed conifer vegetation type at 9,175 feet. At 9,500 feet you enter the spruce-fir type, one of the highest vegetation zones in the Southwest. The hiker has the opportunity to see varied flora and fauna, as well as enjoy the interesting geological formations of the area. Summer and fall are the best times to enjoy the beautiful vistas of this mountain hike. Keep in mind weather conditions as you plan your hike. On a clear day you can even see into Colorado from the summit. Please remember that Mt. Taylor is sacred to American Indians and to respect their beliefs.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking

Trailhead is located on the upper loop of Forest Road 193, approximately 5 miles from State Highway 547.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking

Hilso Mountain Bike Trailhead is located off State Highway 400 south of Fort Wingate. There are 26 miles of non-motorized single track trails here to enjoy. An interpretive kiosk at the trailhead provides information on the history of this area and a map of the trails. The trail system was made possible by the Zuni Mountain Trail Partnership. Please stay on the trail and be courteous to other trail users. Pay attention to private land boundaries as you enjoy your hike or ride.

Uses: Mountain Biking

The Quad trail is 5.9 miles long. It begins at FR 453 at the Mt. Taylor Trailhead, loops through the top of Mt. Taylor and ends back at the Trailhead. 

Uses: Snowmobiling, XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Strawberry Canyon Trailhead is located just east of the McGaffey Campground entrance where State Highway 400 becomes County Road 50. The trail passes along the eastern edge of the campground to a wooden bridge that crosses a drainage. Continue across the bridge and begin the 1 and 1/4 mile ascent to the McGaffey Lookout Tower, about a 360 feet climb. Notice the variation in plant life dependent upon the amounts of moisture found on different facing slopes. Various tree species such as ponderosa pine, rocky mountain juniper, one-seeded juniper, alligator juniper and pinyon pine are found here, as well as various shrubs and seasonal flowering plants. Many animal species live here and you may have the opportunity to view some of them as well. This trail is enjoyed by hikers and bicyclists alike. Please stay on the trail and be courteous to other trail users.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Mountain Biking

Water Canyon is an interior valley that was formed on the eastern side of the horseshoe shaped composite volcano known as Mt. Taylor. This trail descends from the trailhead at the La Mosca saddle and continues 2.5 miles to the end of the trail. Engelmann spruce and blue spruce grow on the top portion of the trail, and as the trail descends into the canyon, the vegetation transitions to ponderosa pine and subalpine fir (corkbark fir). Be aware of private land boundaries as you enjoy your hike, and return to the trailhead the same way you hiked in. Keep in mind weather conditions as you plan your hike. Please remember that Mt. Taylor is sacred to American Indians and to respect their beliefs.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking

Trailhead is accessed from Forest Road 453.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking

The Albuquerque trail is 3.6 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 55/Albuquerque Trailhead and ends at the junction with Fourth Of July Trail. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The Albuquerque Trailhead provides parking for access to the Albuquerque Trail which begins at Forest Road 55 and ends at the junction with Fourth Of July Trail. The trail is open for hiking. Albuquerque trail is 3.6 miles long.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The Bosque trail is 2.1 miles long. It begins at Bosque Trailhead And Fr 55 and ends at Manzano Crest Trail.

Uses: Horse Riding

The Box Canyon trail is 1.4 miles long. It begins at Upper Red Canyon Campground and ends at Ox Canyon Trail.

Uses: Horse Riding

The Cerro Blanco trail is 1.9 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 55 At Trail Sign and ends at Manzano Crest Trail.

Uses: Horse Riding

The Comanche Canyon trail is 6.9 miles long. It begins at Jfk Campground/comanche Trailhead and ends at Manzano Crest Trail. 

Uses: Horse Riding

The Cottonwood trail is 1.4 miles long. It begins at @ Junction with Kayser Mill Trail and ends at Fr 422, .5 Miles North Of Pine Shadows. 

Uses: Day Hiking

The Fourth of July (spur) trail is 0.9 miles long. It begins at .1 northwest from Albuquerque Trailhead/Forest Road 55 and ends at Fourth of July Trail. 

Uses: Horse Riding

The Fourth Of July trail is 1.8 miles long. It begins at 4th Campground At Bulletin Board and ends at Cerro Blanco Trail. 

Uses: Horse Riding

Fourth of July Trailhead is located on the West/Northwest end of the Fourth of July Campground. Day-use parking is located near the entrance of the campground by the picnic area. The trailhead is the starting point of Fourth of July Trail which leads to the Manzano Mountain Wilderness and eventually ties in to the Manzano Crest Trail.

Uses: Day Hiking

The Gavilan trail is 0.8 miles long. It begins at Manzano Crest Trail Trailhead and ends at Ridge At Hawk Watch Observation Point. 

Uses: Day Hiking

Located within the 2007 Ojo Peak Wildfire. Park off of FR422 and hike about 1/2 mile to Kayser/Cottonwood Junction.

Uses: Day Hiking

The La Mosca trail is 0.9 miles long. It begins at Abq Trail and ends at Manzano Crest Trail. 

Uses: Horse Riding

The Manzano Crest trail is 20.3 miles long. It begins at Manzano Peak and ends at La Mosca Trail. 

Uses: Horse Riding

The New Canyon trail is 2.0 miles long. It begins at New Canyon Campground/fr 245 and ends at Manzano Crest Trail.

Uses: Horse Riding

Site may have reduced or no services; be prepared for no trash service or closed/un-serviced restrooms.

Uses: Day Hiking

The Ojito trail is 5.0 miles long. It begins at Meadow Lakes/cordova Property and ends at Manzano Crest Trail. 

Uses: Horse Riding

The Osha trail is 4.0 miles long. It begins at Lower Comanche Trail and ends at Manzano Crest Trail. 

Uses: Horse Riding

The Ox Canyon trail is 3.9 miles long. It begins at Fr 422/ox Canyon Trailhead and ends at Manzano Crest Trail.

Uses: Horse Riding

Site may have reduced or no services; be prepared for no trash service or closed/un-serviced restrooms.

Uses: Day Hiking, Picnicking

The Pine Shadow trail is 5.9 miles long. It begins at Fr 422/pine Shadow Trailhead and ends at Manzano Crest Trail.

Uses: Horse Riding

Site may have reduced or no services; be prepared for no trash service or closed/un-serviced restrooms.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Picnicking

Site may have reduced or no services; be prepared for no trash service or closed/un-serviced restrooms

The Red Canyon trail is 2.4 miles long. It begins at Upper Red Canyon Campground and ends at Manzano Crest Trail.

Uses: Horse Riding

Site may have reduced or no services; be prepared for no trash service or closed/un-serviced restrooms.

Trailhead is temporarily closed due to hazardous conditions that exist within Upper Red Canyon Campground. The trails are still accessible via Lower Red Campground loop, Ox Canyon trailhead and via the Crest Trail.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

Site may have reduced or no services; be prepared for no trash service or closed/un-serviced restrooms.

The Spruce Spring trail is 3.5 miles long. It begins at Upper Red Canyon Campground/th and ends at Manzano Crest Trail.

Uses: Horse Riding

The Trail Canyon trail is 1.6 miles long. It begins at Trail Canyon Th/fr 55 and ends at Manzano Crest Trail. 

Uses: Horse Riding

The Vigil trail is 3.0 miles long. It begins at Ojito Trail-meadow Lakes End and ends at Manzano Crest Trail. 

Uses: Horse Riding

These trails are managed by the City of Albuquerque-Open Space Division and connect with Forest Service Trails in the Sandia foothills. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking

The Foothills Trail 365 is 12.7 miles long. It begins at the bottom of Sandia Peak Tramway, moves south, and ends at the end of Camino de la Sierra. The Foothills Trail has several access points. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Mountain Biking

Trailhead access to Forest Service trails: Pino Trail 140, Domigo Baca Trail 230, Foothills Trail 365 and also Open Space trails. This trailhead is owned, operated and maintained by City of Albuquerque Open Space. Cell phone coverage is not guaranteed.

Uses: Day Hiking

10K North and 10K South Trailheads meet on Scenic Byway 536, on opposite sides of the highway.

10K Trailhead gives access to 10K Trail 200 going North, and ends at the Del Agua Overlook on North Crest Trail 130.

10K South Trailhead ends at the junction of Tree Spring Trail 147 and South Crest Trail 130.

When hiking across a ski run area, look for a blue diamond marker on the opposite side to help keep you on track as you cross over. The elevation gain is about 600 feet from beginning to end.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, Picnicking, XC Skiing/Snowshoeing 

 You'll find Buried Cable Trail 272 parallel to Kiwanis Cabin Road 94 and Switchback Trail 271 on the Sandia Crest Trails & Trailheads map. It connects Switchback in two places to create a loop.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Challenge Trail 233 is most easily accessed from 10K Trailhead or Ellis Trailhead. Elevation change is approximately 1,700 feet.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, XC Skiing/Snowshoeing 

Crest House Nature Trail 98 is south of the Crest House. Begin your hike at South Crest Trail 130. It branches off to your left and is an interesting diversion from the Crest Trail 130. The Nature Trail makes a short loop which ties back into Crest Trail 130. There are informative signs along the way. Enjoy! 

Uses: Day Hiking, Outdoor Learning

The Crest Spur Trail is 0.6 miles long. It is most easily accessed from the Sandia Crest House Visitor Center trailhead and ends/connects at La Luz Trail 137. You can also access it by walking the La Luz Trail 137 from the La Luz Trailhead to the 5 mile marker. From there you can follow Crest Spur Trail 84 to the top of Sandia Crest. If you hike up the La Luz trail 137, the Crest Trail 84 and La Luz meet at the "Five Mile Junction". If you go left, on Crest Spur Trail 84, you will end up at the Sandia Crest. If you hike to the right and stay on La Luz Trail 137, you will end up at the Sandia Peak Upper Tram terminal. 

Uses: Day Hiking

Crest Trail 130 is 26.5 miles long. It spans between Tunnel Spring Trailhead, which is on the north end of the Sandia Mountain Range (pictured here), to Canyon Estates Trailhead, located at the south end of the Sandia Mountain range. It is divided into two lengths, the middle being the Sandia Crest House, which gives you the option of beginning at the top and working your way north or south for short or long treks. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The Ellis trail is 2.7 miles long and begins across the road from the lower parking area of Ellis Trailhead. The trail is named for George Ellis who homesteaded Ellis Ranch in the Sandia Mountains from the 1880s until his death in 1912. Elevation ranges from 9,640 to 10,270 feet for an elevation gain of 630 feet. Access Forest Road 488 from the upper parking area at the gate.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
 

Four Seasons Nature Trail aka the Peak Nature Trail 97 is a short interpretive loop that is designed to educate visitors about the Sandia Mountains. It is most easily accessed by riding the Sandia Peak Tram to the Upper Tram area, where our Forest Service Volunteers are ready to assist you and answer any questions you might have. This trail was created just for you, so enjoy! 

Uses: Hiking, Outdoor Learning

The Kiwanis Cabin trail 93 & road 94: 1/2 to 3/4 miles long depending on which approach you choose to take.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Kiwanis Meadow Trail 16 runs between Service Road 488 and Crest Trail 130. It is most easily accessed from Ellis Trailhead. Elevation change: 60 feet. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Rocky Point Trail 9 is an interior trail that is most easily accessed from Ellis Trailhead. It leads to the left, off Service Road 488, at the junction of Service Road 488, Kiwanis Meadow Trail 16 and Rocky Point Trail 9. It runs parallel to the Service Road 488 and eventually reconnects at Service Road 488 creating a loop. Elevation change is 50 feet. Rocky Point Trail 9 can also be accessed from the Sandia Peak Tram upper terminal. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Survey Trail 203 is an interior trail and can be accessed most easily from Ellis Trailhead parking lot. From Ellis Trailhead, follow Service Road 488 to the Switchback Trail 271 marker. Follow it until you come to Survey Trail 203. Survey Trail 203 crosses NM 536. After crossing the road, look for the tree with several four inch, metal signs, of different colors, with symbols on them attached to the tree; this marks the entrance to a wooded area and the Survey Trail 203.

Mountain bike use can occur from the junction of the Survey Trail 05203 and Switchback Trail 05271, but is not permissible beyond the Sandia Mountain Wilderness Boundary. This wilderness restriction begins just under a half-mile north of Hwy 536. This route does not offer a connecting or return route for mechanized uses north of the highway. 

Elevation change is about 800 feet.

Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Switchback Trail 271 is an interior trail and is most easily accessed from Ellis Trailhead. Follow Service Road 488 to the Switchback trail marker.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Three Gun Trailhead gives access to the Three Gun Spring/Tres Pistoles Trail 194. It is 4.0 miles long and ends at Embudito Trail 192. Hawk Watch Trail 215 splits off toward the east, from Three Gun Trail, about 0.5 miles into your hike. The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The Agua Sarca Trailhead is located about 1.7 miles down Forest Road 231 (aka Tunnel Spring Road). There is a small parking area on the left. Agua Sarca Trail 231 begins across from the parking area, and it is an unmaintained trail, which becomes more and more difficult as you get further into Agua Sarca Canyon. The trail may be difficult to follow and should only be taken if you are familiar with navigating rough territory using a map and compass (or GPS) to avoid getting lost.

NOTE: Consider purchasing a detailed map that includes contour lines, at the Sandia Ranger District or Supervisor's Office. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The Armijo Trail 222 is 1.9 miles long and can be accessed from Cienega Equestrian Trailhead, by way of Cienega Horse Bypass Trail 266. Armijo Trail terminates at Faulty Trail 195.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

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 chow hall that operated from about 1935 to 1941.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Access Bill Spring Trail 196 at the end of Doc Long Picnic Site. It is 0.7 miles long and connects to Faulty Trail 195. William (Bill) H Long PhD, aka "Doc" Long, a botanical researcher, conducted research concerning diseases affecting Ponderosa Pines during the 1900s. It's a good possibility that Bill Spring was named after him.

NOTE: Consider purchasing a detailed map that includes contour lines, at the Sandia Ranger District or Supervisor's Office.

NOTE: During seasonal closure, park in the front parking area at Doc Long Picnic Area. Walk past the gated area to the end of the picnic ground and you will find the Bill Spring Trailhead. Please, do not block the gate.

Uses: Day Hiking

Trailhead access to he south end of Faulty Trail 195, Upper Faulty Trail 195A and South Crest Trail 130 as well as the Travertine Falls.

Uses: Day Hiking, Picnicking

Cienega Canyon Trail 148, is 2.2 miles long. It crosses Faulty Trail 195 and continues a steady climb upward to where it intersects with the Crest Trail 130 and Pino Trail 140.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

Trailhead includes a large turnaround suitable for horse trailers. The trails associated with this trailhead are: Cienega Equestrian Bypass Trail 266; Armijo Trail 222; and Faulty Trail 195.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The Cienega Horse Bypass Trail 266 is 1.8 miles long. It begins at the Cienega Equestrian Trailhead which bumps into Armijo Trail 222 trail and terminates at Faulty Trail 195.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

Faulty Trail 195, is 9.0 miles long. It begins at Canyon Estates Trailhead and stretches along the base of the east aspect of the Sandia Mountains ending at the junction where Bill Spring Trail 196, Oso Corridor Trail 265 and Faulty Trail 195 meet. 

Trails that connect to Faulty Trail are: South Crest Trail 130, Upper Faulty Trail 195A, Forest Park Trail, Barts Trail 225, Canoncito Trail 150, Armijo Trail 222, Cienega Trail 148, Sulphur Canyon Trail 281, Oso Corredor Trail 265 and Bill Spring Trail 196. 

Access points to Faulty Trail 195 are: Canyon Estates Trailhead (which also gives access to South Crest Trail 130), Armijo Trail 222, Cienega Trail 148, Sulphur Canyon Trail 281, Oso Corridor Trail 265, and Bill Spring Trail 196.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The Osha Loop Trail 201 is 2.7 miles long. It is an interior trail, in the northern portion of the Sandia Mountains and can be accessed from 10K Trailhead located off NM 536, Crest Trail 130-North, and Osha Spring Trail 247 entry point off NM 165. Please consult a map to plan your course.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The Osha Spring Trail 247 is 4.3 miles long. It is in the north/east portion of the Sandia Mountains and can be accessed from 10K Trailhead located off NM 536, Crest Trail 130-North, and Osha Spring Trail 247 entry point off NM 165. A primitive trail, it follows an abandoned rock bed for much of its length. Stay on the main branch of the trail. Best to hike this trail in autumn or spring when it is cooler, as it is exposed to the sun.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The Oso Corredor Trail 265 is 2.7 miles long. It is an interior trail and is most easily accessed via Bill Spring Trail 196, out of Doc Long Picnic Site, Faulty Trail 195 and also Tree Spring Trail 147.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Piedra Lisa South Trailhead gives access to Sandia Mountain Wilderness via the Piedra Lisa Trail 135 southern entry. For the northern approach see the Piedra Lisa North Trailhead. The Piedra Lisa Trail 135 is 5.8 miles long. It runs between Piedra Lisa North Trailhead and Piedra Lisa South Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking

Piedra Lisa/La Luz Link 137C is 0.5 mile long and forms a connector trail between La Luz Trail and Piedra Lisa Trail. It is a nice hike, especially on a summer morning or evening. This link trail ends at the Peidra Lisa South Trailhead, from which the southern entry to Piedra Lisa Trail 135 begins.

Uses: Day Hiking

The Sandia Man Cave is located on the north end of the Sandia Mountains high up on the steep cliff walls of Las Huertas Canyon. The trailhead is off of NM 165 and is marked with a sign. It is a 0.47 mile hike from the parking lot to the cave. The trail leads to a concrete staircase, then to a limestone ledge in the cliff, and finally to a metal staircase that spirals up to the mouth of the cave. A daylight visit is advisable, as well as appropriate clothes and shoes. The cave was discovered in 1936 by a University of New Mexico anthropology student. From 1937-1941 UNM excavated it. Found in the cave were stone arrow and lance points, basket scraps, bits of woven yucca moccasins, and skeletal remains of Ice Age animals such as the mastodon. No human remains were discovered.

Uses: Day Hiking

Sulphur Canyon Trail 281 is accessed from within Sulphur Canyon Picnic Site, at very the end of the pavement that runs through the picnic site. The trail itself is .4 miles long. You can also access this trail from Doc Long Picnic Site, which is "next door" to Sulphur. Look for the sign and follow.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, Picnicking

Tecolote Trail 264, is a stand-alone trail with 360 degree views. It is 1.2 miles one way, and is accessed at Tecolote Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Tree Spring Trailhead leads directly to Tree Spring Trail. The trail is 2.0 miles long one way. It passes by the junction of Oso Corredor Trail 265 and ends at the intersection of South Crest Trail 130; Tree Spring Trail 147 and 10K Trail 200.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Upper Faulty Trail 195A is an interior trail, and is 1.3 miles long. It runs from its intersection with Faulty Trail 195 to Crest Trail 130 which creates a loop when you follow Crest Trail 130 back to Faulty Trail 195.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

Trailhead access to Sandia Mountain Wilderness via North Crest Trail 130 and Del Orno Route 130b.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking

Chimney Canyon Trail 137A is accessed from La Luz Trailhead. It is one of the most potentially dangerous hikes in the Sandia Mountains and is not recommended for the casual hiker. Do not attempt this hike unless you are well prepared physically, and able to take care of yourself in the event of a mishap in the wilderness. If you complete the hike as described, you are in for five hours (or more) of very strenuous hiking. You are also in for spectacular views and true sense of accomplishment for having hiked the trail. Be properly prepared.

Remember: You can also hike part of the trail. There is no rule that says you have to walk the whole trail. Use common sense when hiking. If you feel or think it is time to turn around, do so.

Uses: Day Hiking

The Domingo Baca Trail 230 is 2.4 miles long, and ends at a sandy bowl like area. Access is within the Elena Gallegos Picnic Area, off of the Foothills Trail 365. At the official trails end, a rugged, unmaintained trail continues up Domingo Canyon to the TWA crash site, which is at the 3.5 mile point. Please do not remove pieces of the wreckage or leave memorial items. The trail is wholly within the Sandia Mountain Wilderness Area and therefore is open to hiking and equestrians only (no bicycles permitted).

Uses: Day Hiking

The Embudito Trailhead gives access to Embudito Trail 192. The trail is 6 miles one way. It begins at Embudito Trailhead and ends at South Crest Trail 130. It intersects with Three Gun Trail aka Tres Pistoles 194. When you reach this intersection go left to continue on Embudito and finish at the Crest Trail 130.

Uses: Day Hiking

Embudo Trailhead accesses Embudo Trail 193, Embudo Horse Bypass Trail 193A and the Foothills Trail 365 in the Albuquerque Open Space. Embudo Trail 193 is 3.2 miles long. It begins at Embudo Trailhead and ends at Three Gun Trail aka Tres Pistoles Trail 194. The Embudo Bypass Trail 193A is 1.2 miles long and begins at the Open Space parking area, at the end of Indian School Road. The parking area is operated and maintained by Albuquerque Open Space.

Uses: Day Hiking

Hawk Watch Trail 215 is 2 miles long one way, and is a dead end trail. It begins at Three Gun Spring Trail aka Tres Pistoles 194. After about a half mile hike you will see the Hawk Watch Trail 215 sign. It is steep with sandy gravel that makes footing uncertain. Take care on your way down, as it is quite steep. Loose sandy gravel on the trail makes for a precarious decent.

NOTE: Latitude and Longitude denote the Three Gun Spring Trailhead which gives access to Hawk Watch Trail 215.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

La Cueva Trailhead accesses La Cueva Trail 83 & Tramway Trail 82 from within La Cueva Picnic Site.La Cueva Picnic Site is full of Civilian Conservation Corps (aka CCC) history. It is listed in New Mexico's Registry of Historic Places.

Uses: Day Hiking, Picnicking

The La Luz trail is 7.5 miles long. It begins at La Luz Trailhead and ends at the Crest Trail 130 near the Sandia Peak Tram Upper Terminal. The La Luz Trail 137 connects with several other trails along the way. Tramway Trail 82; Piedra Lisa-La Luz Link Trail 137C; La Luz 137B; Chimney Canyon Trail 137A and The Crest Spur Trail (leads to the Sandia Crest House)

The La Luz Trail is one of the best known trails in the Sandia Mountains. It is also one of the most challenging. The trail goes from hot desert landscape to cool forest, for a length of 7.5 miles one way. The elevation gain is 3,200 vertical feet. It is difficult and rewarding.

Do not attempt this hike unless you are well prepared physically, and able to take care of yourself in the event of a mishap in the wilderness. If you complete the hike as described, you are in for five hours (or more) of strenuous hiking. You are also in for spectacular views and true sense of accomplishment for having hiked the trail. 

Please stay on the trail. Every year lost hikers are searched for and rescued on the La Luz Trail, with and without injury. Others have not been so fortunate and have lost their lives. The trail is well worn. Pay attention and follow the path. 

Remember: You can also hike part of the trail. There is no rule that says you have to walk the whole trail. Use common sense when hiking. If you feel or think it is time to turn around, do so.

Uses: Day Hiking

Pino Trail 140 is 4.7 miles long. It begins at Pino-Elena Gallegos Trailhead, on the edge of Elena Gallegos Picnic Area and ends at Crest Trail 130.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

Tramway Trailhead gives access to Tramway Trail 82 (southern terminus). It is located on Sandia Peak Tram property. 

Tramway Trail 82 is 2.6 miles long. It begins at the base of the Sandia Peak Tram, runs north and intersects with La Luz Trail 137, creating a connection between the La Luz Trail and the Tram parking area.

Along the way, you will pass Rozamiento Trail 208 and La Cueva Trail 83. Keep moving north. Toward the end of your hike: If you follow Tramway Trail 82 to the end, you will end your hike in Juan Tabo Picnic area. If you choose to take La Luz Trail 137, at the junction of 82 and 137 you will end your hike in the La Luz Trailhead parking area. If you follow Tramway Trail 82 and choose to drop down onto the La Cueva Trail 83, you will end your hike in La Cueva Picnic area.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding

Cedro Trailhead (near Cedro Camping sites) gives access to Middle Trail 05623 & Cedro Singletrack Trail 05625. Cell phone coverage is not guaranteed. It is the recreationist's responsibility to use a map. It is a multi-user area. Trail(s) open for the following uses: Hiking, Mountain Biking, 2 Wheel Motorized Vehicles and Horseback Riding. Be courteous to other users. Motorized vehicles and bicycles yield to hikers and horses. Travel only on established trails.

Uses: Day Hiking, OHV Camping,  OHV Road Riding, OHV Trail Riding, Picnicking

Access Cedro Peak Trail 05240 from the junction of Forest Road 252 and Middle Trail 05623, or from Cedro Lookout Tower at the northern end of FR252. Trail open for the following uses: Hiking, Mountain Biking, and Horseback Riding.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The Cedro Singletrack Trail 05625 is 1.9 miles long. Easiest access is from Fr 252 at the Cedro Trailhead, near Cedro Peak large group camp sites. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Meadow Ridge Trail 05627 is a multi-user, interior trail, most easily accessed from Cedro Trailhead via FS Road 13. Meadow Ridge connects FS Road 13 to FS Road 12. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Meadow Singletrack Trail 05625 is an interior trail that begins at the junction of Lone Pine 05628, FS Road 12 and Meadow Ridge 05627 leading south, and connecting with Pokerchip Trail 05612. The closest entry point to Meadow Singletrack 05625, is Cedro Trailhead. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Middle Trail 05623 is most easily accessed from Cedro Trailhead. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Rabbit Run Trail 05605 is easily accessed from Cedro Trailhead. It connects to FS Road 542 which creates a bridge between two portions of FS Road 542. At one end it connects with Powerline Trail 05543 and FS Road 542. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Rattlesnake Trail 05056 ties in with FS Road 12 and Mighty Mule Trail 05257 at one end, and links them to  Meadow Ridge Trail 05627. The closest entry point is Cedro Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Chamisoso Trailhead is approximately 2 miles south of I-40, on NM 337. There are two gravel parking areas across from each other with room for trailers. The trailhead provides access to Chamisoso Trail 05184 by way of Powerline Trail 05543. If you travel further up the road you will come to Coyote Trailhead which leads to Coyote-Chamisoso Link 05620, Forest Road 462, Coyote Trail 05619 and Coyote Split Trail 05851. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Camping, OHV Road Riding

Access from Chamisoso Trailhead.

Uses: OHV Trail Riding

From October 07, 2024 through May 31, 2025, the following trails will be partially closed: 05619 Coyote, 05851 Coyote Split, and 05185 More Cowbell. 

Coyote Trailhead provides access to the Manzanita Mountains Trail System. The turn off to Coyote Trailhead is approximately 2 miles south of I-40, on NM 337. The first trailhead on that turn off is  Chamisoso Trailhead. It provides access to Chamisoso Trail 05184 by way of  Powerline Trail 05543. Travel further up the road you will come to Coyote Trailhead, which leads to Coyote-Chamisoso Link 05620, Forest Road 462, Coyote Trail 05619 and Coyote Split Trail 05851.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Delberts Trail 05622 is located in the upper/middle portion of the Manzanita Mountains Trail System map and is sandwiched between FS Road 462 and 13. The closest access points to get onto Delberts are from Chamisoso Trailhead area or from Lower Pine Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Chamisoso/Coyote Trailheads, FS Road 542 and Cedro Trailhead all provide entry points that lead to Jackalope Trail 05624. From Chamisoso/Coyote Trailheads, it branches off Powerline Trail 05543 near the junction of Rabbit Run Trail 05605 and FS Road 542. Jackalope Trail butts into NM 337 there is no parking allowed there, and it is not an entry point for this trail.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Powerline Trail 05543 can be accessed from Chamisoso Trailhead off the ATV Bypass 05617.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Lower Pine Trailhead is located off NM 333 aka Old Route 66. Turn at the Kennedy Road/Bartolo Baca Road. It is the northern most access to the Manzanita Mountains Trail System. It gives access to Lower Pine Trail 05606, Tablazon Canyon Trail 05629; Pinyon Trail 05607, Gear Grinder Trail 05630, Lone Pine Trail 05628 and Bear Scat Trail, 05027.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding, OHV Camping

Bear Scat Trail 05027 is most easily accessed from Lower Pine Trailhead and is a multi-user, interior trail that parallels the eastern border of the of the Manzanita Mountains Trail System. It terminates at FS Road 242.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Access Gear Grinder Trail 05630 from Lower Pine Trailhead. Follow Lower Pine Trail 05606 to the junction where Lower Pine 05606, Pinyon Trail 05607 and Gear Grinder meet. Have fun!

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Lone Pine Trail 05628 is most easily accessed from Lower Pine Trailhead and Cedro Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Mighty Mule Trail 05257 is an interior trail most easily accessed from Lower Pine Trailhead. It begins at the junction of Delbert's Trail 05622 and FS Road 13, and runs parallel to FS Road 12.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Pinyon Trail 05607 is most easily accessed from Lower Pine Trailhead. It begins at the junction of Lower Pine Trail 05606 and Gear Grinder Trail 05630.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Tablezon Canyon Trail 05629 connects Lower Pine Trail 05606 to private land. It is a non-motorized use trail.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Mars Court Trailhead is approximately 9.4 miles south of I-40, off NM 337. The trailhead provides access to David Canyon via Manzanita Mountains Trail System. The parking area can accommodate a small number of horse trailers as well as approximately 10+ vehicles.

Uses: Day Hiking

3 Bottles Advanced and Flow 05641 is located on the lower portion of the Manzanita Mountain Trails System map, to the left, next to private land. 

3 Bottles ADVANCED: Advanced skills and equipment. Direction(s) and difficulty indicated. Be familiar with ratings as shown on trail entry signage. HORSES - Stay on the "easiest" trail(s)

3 Bottles FLOW: One Way (as indicated by signs and arrows). HORSES PROHIBITED

Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking

Cajun Pine Trail 05049 is located in the lower portion of the attached map.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Access Cajun Turkey Trail 05048 from Mars Court Trailhead via wild Turkey Trail 05161. The trail connects Wild Turkey Trail 05161 with FS Road 530 and Cajun Pine Trail 05049 as you travel north.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Drop In Trail 05238 is most easily accessed from Mars Court Trailhead. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

More Turkey Trail 05643 is most easily access from Mars Court Trailhead. This trail runs along the border of the Department of Defense. Please do not cross that border. More Turkey Trail connects with FS Road 106 at one end, and FS Road 530 and West Boundary Trail 05642 at the other end.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Access Turkey Trot Trail 05162 from Mars Court Trailhead. The trail crosses over FS Road 335 and ends at the junction of FS Road 106 and More Turkey Trail 05643.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

West Boundary Trail 05642 runs parallel to the military withdraw boundary and is most easily accessed from Mars Court Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Access Wild Turkey Trail 05161 from Mars Court Trailhead. The Trail connects with Cajun Turkey Trail 05048 and Forest Road 335 as you travel west.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

As you enter the Oak Flat Picnic Site entrance, take a left turn and follow the pavement to the parking area at very end. Oak Flat Connector Trailhead accesses Oak Flat Connector Trail 05637.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding, Picnicking

Accessed most easily just off Forest Road 242 at Pokerchip Trail 05612 and/or Mahogany Trail 05602.

Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Caida Del Pino Trail 05640 is found in the Oak Flat area of the Manzanita Mountains Trail System and can be accessed from Oak Flat Trailhead Or at Oak Flat Road and Mahogany Trail 05602. It also connects, within the interior of the trail system, with Easy Pickin' Trail 05638 and Gambel Oak Trail 05618.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Easy Pickin' Trail 05638 is most easily accessed from Oak Flat Road and Oak Flat Connector Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

There are two main entrances to Mahogany Trail 05602. They are located off FS Road 242 (aka Juan Tomas) and off Oak Flat Road.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Easily accessed from FS Road 242 and Oak Flat Trailhead area. Pokerchip Trail 05612 crosses FS Road 242. Going north, it connects with Bear Scat Trail 05027. Heading south it connects with Gambel Oak Trail 05618 and Mahogany Trail 05602.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Ponderosa Trail 05604 connects Sandia Ranger District to Juan Tomas Open Space. It is a non-motorized use trail that loops into Juan Tomas Open Space and back into Forest Service land. It's most easily accessed from Oak Flat Road near Mahogany Trail 05602. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Rocky Top Trail 05610 is a short connecter trail between Bear Scat Trail 05607, Pokerchip Trail 05612 Junction and Sedillo Ridge Open Space.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Otero Canyon Trailhead is approximately 4 miles south of I-40, on NM 337. The parking area provides space for approximately 20 passenger cars with no designated trailer parking.

Uses: Day Hiking, Outdoor Learning,  OHV Trail Riding

Access Blue Ribbon Trail 05236 from Otero Canyon Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding 

The Cedro Creek Interpretive Nature Trail is 1.8 miles long. From the parking area, pass through the large stone blocks and continue on until you see the Cedro Creek Nature Trail sign, to your left. Follow it down a short way and keep looking to your left for the larger Nature Trail sign. This trail has knee high trail markers that coincide with a brochure, which is available at the Sandia Ranger Station. It ends at Big Block climbing area.

Uses: Day Hiking, Outdoor Learning

Gnasty Trail 05057 is 1.1 miles long. If you begin at Otero Canyon Trailhead, follow Otero Canyon Trail to its end, there it unites with Gnasty Trail, at the DOD forest boundary (No trespassing on DOD property). Gnasty connects Blue Ribbon and Otero Canyon trails to create a loop that will take you back to Otero Canyon Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The Otero Canyon Trail 05056 is 3.6 miles long. It is located just off NM 337, at the Otero Canyon Trailhead, and is part of the Manzanita Mountains Trail System.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

West Ridge Trail 05268 is most easily accessed from Otero Canyon Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Trail Riding

Pine Flat Connector Trailhead accesses the Manzanita Mountains Trail System by way of the Pine Flat Connector Trail 05635. The trailhead begins at FS Road 54, at the south end of Pine Flat Picnic Site.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, Picnicking

Deadman Trail 05639 accessed most easily from Pine Flat Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Gambel Oak 05618 is located in the lower southeastern portion of the Manzanita Mountains Trail System map, between Pine Flat Trailhead and Mahogany Trail 05602. It connects with Pokerchip Trail 05612, Gambel Spur Trail 05633, Pine Loop Trail 050636, Pine Flat Connector 05635 and Mahogany Trail 05602. Accessed from Pine Flat Trailhead and Oak Flat Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Gambel Spur Trail 05633 connects Edelweiss Road to Gambel Oak Trail 05618.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Pine Loop Trail 05636 is most easily accessed from Pine Flat Connector Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Riding

Tunnel Canyon Trailhead is located approximately two and a half miles south of I-40. It gives access to Tunnel Canyon Trail 05145, which is 2.4 miles long, and Birdhouse Ridge Trail 05411, both of which lead into the Manzanita Mountains Trail System.

Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, OHV Riding

Accessed from Tunnel Canyon Trailhead. Connects with Tunnel Canyon Trail to form a loop, and also leads into the Manzanita Mountains Trail System.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHV Riding

The Tunnel Canyon Trail 05145 is 2.4 miles long. It begins at Tunnel Canyon Trailhead on NM 337.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

Del Agua Trail 248 can be accessed from the Piedra Lisa North Trailhead.

Uses: Day Hiking

Access to Piedra Lisa 135 North.

Uses: Day Hiking

Access to Sandia Mountain Wilderness.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding