Distance Yourself Socially and Get Your Exercise at these Albuquerque Trails

Since we all need to stay away from each other for a while, one great way to cope with this new reality is to get outside and exercise. And the great thing about Albuquerque is that we have many great trails to help us stay healthy and away from other people for a while. The beauty of these trails will help you reduce stress as well. What better way to spend your time?

Here are some great trails in the Albuquerque area for you to explore.

Sandia Foothills Open Space

The Sandia Foothills Open Space contains approximately 2,650 acres of steep sloped hills intersected by gravelly drainages at the base of the Sandia Mountains. Trailheads provide access to the Foothills trails as well as the Sandia Mountain Wilderness Area, managed by the US Forest Service. Recreational opportunities include hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. Foothills overview map.

Rinconada Canyon Trail

7601 St Josephs Ave, Albuquerque, NM 87120

Nice, easy 2.2 mile hike (loop) back into a small canyon. The trail along the base of the north side of the canyon allows you to view a variety of petroglyphs. The escarpment and all the petroglyphs are a little ways back from the trail. At the furthest point, some are right next to the trail. Take water and sunscreen, look for little lizards and rabbits, along with turkey vultures soaring high.

Eye of the Sandias

Eye Of The Sandias Loop Trail is a 6.3 kilometer loop trail located near Albuquerque, New Mexico that offers the chance to see wildlife and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from March until October. The trail leads to a canyon between foothills with trees and shade if you continue going east from the parking area. Dogs are also welcome on this trail but must be kept on leash.

Boca Negra Canyon

Atrisco Dr NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120

Located off of Unser Boulevard, ¼ mile north of Montaño Road, this canyon provides quick and easy access to three self-guided trails, (Mesa Point, Macaw, and Cliff Base) where you can view approximately 100 petroglyphs.

Piedra Lisa Canyon Trail

13225 Menaul NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

Piedra Lisa Canyon Trail is a 2 mile out and back trail located near Albuquerque that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. View Map

Michael Emery Trailhead

High Desert St, Albuquerque, NM 87111

Michael M. Emery and Trail 305 Loop is a 3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Albuquerque, New Mexico that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Popular with hikers & mountain bikers, this trail offers rugged scenery, shrubs & diverse wildlife.