Sandia Mountains Foothill – Mountain Bike Trail

The Sandia Mountains Foothill trail is one of the most fun mountain biking trails in New Mexico. The loop trail is part of the trail network in Sandia Foothills open space park. The trail is a bit technical with a steady climb and brief downhills. We do not recommend it for complete beginners, as you need some experience and technique before reaching the top. Though if you ride slowly, the trail is fairly easy. Here is what you need to know before hitting the Sandia Mountains Foothill trail.

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

The Sandia Mountains Foothill trail offers the ultimate intermediate mountain biking experience. It has a manageable steady climb and a few descents. The trail is very straightforward. From the trailhead, just keep making turns toward the mountain. Ride until you get to the bear canyon trailhead. Get on the single track and brace yourself for a tough climb.

Keep riding while making right turns until you get to the water tanks. At this point, you have covered half the trail. From here, you can proceed of the back track to the trailhead. You can also get on any of the trails as they all lead back south to the trailhead.

The Sandia North foothill trails are more beginner friendly than the South Foothills. If you need a tamer, more gradual, smoother and easy-to-navigate surface, we recommend you ride the North foothill trails.

If you are new in Albuquerque and have no idea how to get to the trailhead, start from the intersection at 1-25 and l-40. Turn left or north and ride east to Tramway. The Tramway should lead you to Montgomery, which should lead you to Glenwood Hills Dr. if you keep riding north. Turn right to get on the trailhead road, then ride up the hill to the end. There is plenty of parking available at the trailhead.

Additional Trail Features

• The Sandia Open Space Park requires an entry fee.
• Picnic shelters at Elea Gallegos Picnic Area. You can also stop at Embudo Canyon t rest on the picnic tables and benches.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, Views

As the Sandia Mountains Foothill trail runs through the open space park, you will be treated to scenic views and various wildlife species. The wide variety of shrubs includes Chamisa, oaks, three-leaf sumac, and apache plume. In addition, you will be surrounded by prickly pear cacti, cane cholla, various grasses, and wildflowers.

Wildlife in the area includes rock squirrel, lizards, mule deer, coyote, cougar, black bear and rattlesnakes. You will also see various beautiful bird species.

Recommendations

• Depending on the trailhead you use, you may need to pay entry fees.
• Beware of the parking lot hours to avoid being locked in.
• Carry plenty of water.
• Beware of cougars, bears, and rattlesnakes. Cycle in a group or make some noise to avoid surprising them.
• Do not leave valuables in plain view in the vehicle at the parking lot.
• Ensure you are in shape before hitting this trail because the climb is no joke.
• Be mindful of the cacti.