Travel

Best Hikes in Albuquerque, New Mexico: Trails for Every Adventurer

by Katelynn Kellogg

When I found out I was leaving my hometown, which is in a very flat part of Texas, to attend a conference in Albuquerque, NM, I was ecstatic because I knew Albuquerque had some great hiking opportunities. With the rugged Sandia Mountains on one side and sweeping desert/volcanic landscapes on the other, it’s a place that satisfies every type of hiker. I’ve put together a list of some of the Best Hikes in Albuquerque, New Mexico based on my own experience and insights from fellow hikers on AllTrails.

Whether you’re looking for great views, mountain air, or a real workout, there is at least one option for you on this list! Let’s dive into the trails you don’t want to miss!

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La Luz Trail

When researching what hikes I wanted to do during my visit, I read numerous blogs and reviews of the La Luz Trail making it seem to be the most popular hike in the area – my Airbnb host even recommended it if I had time. The trail, out-and-back totals around 15.2 miles, which I, unfortunately, did not have time to complete during my visit. Reviews repeatedly say “It’s a challenging hike, but reaching the Sandia Peak is worth every step!” Known for its steep switchbacks and rocky path, La Luz gives hikers unforgettable views.

  • Distance: 15.2 Mile Loop
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Highlights: Panoramic views, rock cliffs, and wildflowers in the spring and summer

There is an incredible gallery of over 5,000 photos taken by AllTrails users including the below image submitted by Angela Byrne-Sweeney.

La Luz Trail, one of the best hikes in Albuquerque New Mexico offering incredible views of the mountains, blue skies, and rocky trail. Image submitted by Alltrails user Angela Bryne-Sweeney
La Luz Trail #137 submitted to AllTrails by: Angela Bryne-Sweeney

Pro tip: If you’re not up for the full hike, you can take the Sandia Peak Tramway (at a cost) up or down for a one-way trip!

Eye of the Sandias Loop

I love to hike just for the joy of being outside, but I also love to hike when there is a final destination or a big reveal at the end of my hike. Eye of the Sandias Loop doesn’t have a big reveal per se, but finding the eye painting feels like an accomplishment on this hike. I was able to fit this 4.5-mile hike into my schedule while visiting and I was happy I did. If you’re looking for a moderate-to-challenging hike with views of the city skyline, the Eye of the Sandias Loop is one of the best hikes in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Here are the trail basics:

  • Distance: 4.5 Mile Loop
  • Difficulty: Moderate (small section of rock climbing at top)
  • Highlights: Deer on trail, stunning city skyline view, and unique area to watch planes take off from the local airport.
One of the best hikes in Albuquerque, New Mexico is the Eye of the Sandias. This image shows an expansive view of the mountains from the top elevation point of eye of the sandias. Taken by blogger KatelynnoutLoud.
Image by KatelynnOutLoud

The Volcanoes Trail

Located within the Petroglyph National Monument, the Volcanoes Trail is an easy-loop trail that is popular with locals and visitors. The trail is relatively flat which allows for an easy stroll through the 3-mile loop. There is minimal shade throughout the hike, so be prepared if hiking in the warmer months by bringing plenty of water.

This trail offers incredible sunset views and provides a glimpse into New Mexico’s volcanic past. To learn about the relationship between Albuquerque and the two volcanic cones you’ll visit on this hike, be sure to read the signage posted along the trail.

Although an easy hike, it’s rather unique to this area.

  • Distance: 3.0 Mile Loop
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: Relatively flat, easy, dog-friendly hike for everyone to enjoy. Spectacular sunset views and unique historical impact on Albuquerque.
One of the best hikes in Albuquerque, New Mexico is the Volcanoes Trail. This trail is very unique to Albuquerque and winds through two different volcano cones that have been around for years. Image shows vast open land with one volcano cone in the distance that looks like a large hill. Image taken by Alltrails user Kirk Ballard
Volcanoes Trail submitted to AllTrails by: Kirk Ballard

Pino Trail

Many hikers hear “Pino Trail” and automatically think “One of the best hikes in Albuquerque, New Mexico!” The Pino Trail is a visitor and local favorite that combines moderate elevation with forested paths and serene surroundings. I tend to like forested paths more than open-air hikes like the volcanoes, so this is one I really wanted to do, but I just ran out of time during my visit. If I’m ever back, this hike will be at the top of my list.

  • Distance: 9.2 Mile Out-and-Back
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Highlights: Tree-lined paths, Sandia views, dog-friendly, and beautiful autumn colors if you’re there in the fall
Pino Trail submitted to AllTrails by Jack Williamson

Faulty Loop via South Crest Trail

Another incredible hike in Albuquerque is the Faulty Loop via South Crest Trail. This trail is perfect for those who enjoy a quieter, woodsy escape with a good mix of climbs and scenic spots. Parking was easy at the trailhead and I only saw one other hiker. I did see a few deer and squirrels along the way. I loved the contrast of this trail to the Eye of the Sandias because it was entirely in the forest. This trail is not completely quiet as there is a hum of the traffic on the highway below, but it wasn’t too bad at all.

  • Distance: 5.8 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
  • Highlights: Pine forest sections, mini-waterfall (not much water right now), peaceful, less-crowded trail
Image by Katelynnoutloud

Three Guns Spring Loop

The Three Guns Spring Trail is another great hike that’s perfect for those seeking adventure without extreme difficulty. It winds through a beautiful desert canyon and offers impressive views of the Sandia Mountains. Trail is out in the open, little to no shade, so prepare accordingly.

  • Distance: 3.2 Mile Loop
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Well-maintained trail, wildflowers (season depending), and expansive views
Three Guns Spring Loop trail image with blue sky AllTrails Image by Maximilien G
Three Guns Spring Loop Trail AllTrails Image by Maximilien G

Sandia Cave Trail

Holy Moley, do I have a story for you!

I had this trail on my list to visit while I was in Albuerque and I didn’t quite make it there. To visit the cave, you’ll need a vehicle as you’ll have to drive around the mountain to the other side which can take around 40 or so minutes. Once you’ve reached the Cave Trail entrance road, prepare to buckle up! The road is unpaved, very rocky, and requires a vehicle with 4 wheel drive and preferably a lift.

I rented a typical sedan while visiting and thought I would be able to make it out as there hadn’t recently been any rain so mud holes and water wouldn’t be a problem. I drove about 3/4 mile down the entrance road and it took me over 25 minutes. I had to drive so slow and the potholes and rocks I had to drive over were large. I was really nervous being in a rental car that I may pop a tire or worse, get stuck out there with no service.

The road allows two way traffic, but is only large enough for one vehicle in many spots so you’ll also want to have a vehicle that can potentially pull off the road into a side area with tall weeds or even more rocks to allow passing.

After about 30 minutes of driving this really rough terrain, I decided to turn back. My GPS had cut out so I wasn’t sure how far I was from the cave and I was getting really nervous about the rental car. All in all, I spent over a 2 hours attempting to reach this cave and never made it.

Nonetheless, I still highly recommend visiting the cave if you’re able. The drive will take much longer than the cave visit itself, but it’s a unique opportunity that you won’t find anywhere else!

  • Distance: 1.5 Mile out-and-back
  • Difficulty: Easy, but with a few climbs
  • Highlights: This trail is a short but fascinating hike to the Sandia Cave, where you’ll find ancient petroglyphs and artifacts dating back thousands of years. A metal staircase leads into the cave itself, making it a unique spot for adventurers. Although it’s brief, the trail’s rocky terrain and ascent give it a moderately challenging feel.
Image from Alltrails user Andrew A. of the metal spiral staircase leading up to the Sandia Cave Trail in Albuquerque, NM. The metal is a tan/brown color that blends in with the stone it's built into.
Sandia Cave Stairway submitted to AllTrails by Andrew A.

Tips for Hiking in Albuquerque

  • Download AllTrails! This app is a lifesaver for staying on track and learning more about each trail.
  • Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Albuquerque’s dry desert air can be deceiving and many trails offer no shade. Bring extra water! No matter how short the hike, I always wear my Osprey Raven backpack with a hydration pack. It’s lightweight and has a lot of pockets for snacks, a toilet bag, whatever else I need.
  • Watch the Weather: New Mexico’s weather can change quickly, so check the forecast and prepare accordingly.
  • Protect Your Skin: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sunshirt, and a hat are essentials on these sunny trails. I wore my Smartwool classic Merino wool quarter-zip base layer for all my hikes on this trip. It’s one of my favorites (in image below)!
Starting one of the best hikes in Albuquerque New Mexico - Eye of the Sandias Loop. Image shows me with sunglasses, headband, and hydration pack by the trail sign.
Finishing up my Eye of the Sandias hike

Final Thoughts

With over 100 trails listed on AllTrails, Albuquerque is truly a hiker’s paradise. Whether you want to tackle challenging peaks or enjoy an easy stroll, these trails offer the perfect way to experience New Mexico’s natural beauty. So grab your hiking boots, pack your essentials, and hit the trail – Albuquerque is waiting for you to explore!

I am working on writing up more content from my trip to Albuquerque, NM now, so stay tuned for more!