For many, Albuquerque is a unique opportunity to explore historic Route 66 attractions and stroll through the charming streets of Old Town, learning about the vibrant mix of cultures that have called this city home for centuries. For others, it’s an epic hiking adventure starting at the crest of the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway and beyond. Whatever an adventure to Albuquerque means to you, we’d love to host you at our charming, well-appointed Old Town Bed and Breakfast.
From the towering mountain peaks of the Sandia Mountains to the scenic Rio del Bosque trail along the banks of the Rio Grande River, Albuquerque is truly a diverse haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Trails here traverse through the high desert, across sprawling mesa lands, and along the banks of the river, leading to one unique adventure after another. Regardless of the Albuquerque hiking trails you choose, you’ll encounter panoramic views that stretch across the state and reveal why the state has earned the moniker “Land of Enchantment.”
The best seasons to hike in Albuquerque are spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its peak, but the cooler elevations at the top of the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway are perfect on the hottest days of the summer. Hiking is just the start of things to do in this exciting town, though. Get to know what makes Albuquerque a world-class destination while you stay for a few days at our charming bed and breakfast in Old Town.
This historic area captures the spirit and heritage of the city with its adobe architecture, vibrant art scene, and flavorful local cuisine. Whether you’re winding down from a vigorous hike or planning your next adventure, our Inn is the perfect place to stay. Book your room today!
Hiking From the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway
Though there are plenty of trails leading you up the rugged peaks of the Sandia Mountains, including the famed La Luz Trail, you can also take a stunning hiking trip that starts from the crest at the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway. At the summit of the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, hikers find themselves at the gateway to some of the most breathtaking trails in the Southwest. Standing at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, the area offers a diverse range of trails catering to seasoned hikers and those seeking a less demanding outdoor experience. From this vantage point, the entirety of the Rio Grande Valley stretches out below, offering unparalleled views that extend into the far reaches of New Mexico.
For a truly ambitious hiking adventure in Albuquerque, you can reach the crest of the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway via the La Luz trail. It’s considered one of the most challenging hikes in the Southwest. To avoid this strenuous trek, the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway offers one-way tickets – an excellent option for hikers interested in riding to the top, exploring the network of trails there, and hiking their way back down to the bottom. You can also enjoy round-trip transit on the tramway, only hiking on the trails at the top.
Whatever kind of hiking adventure you have in store, you’ll find that the tramway itself is a marvel, providing a swift and scenic ascent to the top of the mountain. This makes the start of these hiking trails more accessible to a broader range of visitors, including those who might find the climb otherwise too difficult. The trails at the top of the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway are best characterized by their rugged beauty and ecological diversity. As hikers traverse these paths, they pass through various biomes—from alpine tundra to lush forested areas rich with Ponderosa pines and aspen groves.
The rocky terrain at the top of the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway is dotted with wildflowers during the spring and summer, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. Each trail is unique, offering differing views of the mountains and the Rio Grande Valley below, and the crisp mountain air is fresh and invigorating. Wildlife sightings are frequent, with the possibility of encountering mule deer, black bears, and numerous bird species, which adds an element of excitement to every hike.
More Great Hiking Trails in Albuquerque
Whether you ride the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway to enjoy some hiking in the breathtaking Sandia Mountains or are looking for different hiking opportunities in town, you’ll find an exciting range of Albuquerque hiking trails to explore. The city, with its diverse landscapes ranging from the soaring peaks of the Sandia Mountains to the lush bosque along the Rio Grande River, is a prime destination for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor pursuits.
From gentle riverside walks to strenuous mountain climbs, there’s something for everyone here. Some of the most popular Albuquerque hiking trails include the following:
- The Paseo del Bosque Trail is Albuquerque’s most popular multi-use trail. It skirts along the edge of the Rio Grande River and is a popular place for leisurely walks and bike rides. The area is also a fantastic place for birdwatchers.
- There are more great hiking opportunities at the Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge. As the Southwest’s first urban national wildlife refuge, Valle de Oro offers gentle trails through the Rio Grande’s bosque and open fields, ideal for wildlife and bird watching.
- The Piedra Lisa Trail is located in the Cibola National Forest and is a rugged route that provides spectacular views of canyons and rock formations in the Sandia wilderness.
- Another great place for some of the best Albuquerque hiking trails is the Elena Gallegos Open Space, which features several shorter trails perfect for families and casual hikers.
- You’ll find some truly unique Albuquerque hiking trails at Petroglyph National Monument. Located on the west side of Albuquerque, this area provides an opportunity to hike among ancient volcanic rocks adorned with thousands of petroglyphs created by Native Americans and Spanish settlers.
- Don’t miss the chance to hike at Volcanoes Day Use Area within the Petroglyph National Monument. This area features a series of extinct volcanic cones on Albuquerque’s west mesa. Trails here are generally easy and offer panoramic views of the Albuquerque Basin and the Sandia Mountains.
Drive even further out of Albuquerque, and you’ll find even more incredible hiking opportunities in the high deserts of New Mexico. To enjoy these and other unforgettable adventures this year, it’s time to book your stay at our top-rated Bed and breakfast in Albuquerque!
