Sandia RD Crest Highway
Just east of Albuquerque are the most visited mountains in New Mexico. Millions of people journey into the Sandia Mountains each year. More than half these visitors ride the Sandia Peak Tram or drive the Sandia Crest National Scenic Byway to take in spectacular panoramic views of Central New Mexico and to enjoy many other recreational opportunities. The Scenic Byway has several newly remodeled picnic grounds with shelters and group areas for reservation.
Easy access to Sandia Crest, via Sandia Crest National Scenic Byway, NM 536, or Sandia Peak Tramway, allows a visitor to reach this subalpine mountaintop in minutes. This high ridge offers commanding vistas in all directions, including a birds-eye view of the cliffs and spires of the west face, Albuquerque, the Rio Grande Valley below and a horizon filled with New Mexico’s mountains.
General Information
For a more detailed view of the Sandia Crest Trails click here.
Passes & Permits
Day Use Fees apply for use of trailheads and picnic areas. See posted information for more details. The New Mexico Enchantment Pass is accepted where amenity fees apply. Certain picnic areas have additional reservation opportunities. See Reservation.gov for more details.
Complexes
Doc Long Picnic Site is named for Dr. William Henry Long. He was one of three forest pathologists in the USA who conducted pioneering research of tree diseases.
Sulphur Canyon Picnic Site has picnic areas dispersed thoroughout the site. They are located along the paved lot and down into the trees.
Trailhead includes a large turnaround suitable for horse trailers.
Recreation Sites
10k Trailhead and 10K Trail 200
Balsam Glade Nature Tr - La Madera Canyon Overlook
Balsam Glade Picnic Site
Capulin Snow Play Site
Capulin Spring Picnic Site
Cienega Equestrian Trailhead
Doc Long Picnic Site
Ellis Trailhead, Ellis Trail 202 & FR 488
Kiwanis Cabin Interpretive Site
Nine Mile Picnic Site