The best cycling routes around Sandia Heights

There are over 25 touring cycling routes available in Sandia Heights, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews.

Sandia Heights offers a variety of routes to suit different fitness levels. You'll find 4 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 5 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners and experienced cyclists alike.

Yes, there are 4 easy touring cycling routes in Sandia Heights. While the provided routes are moderate, the region offers paths like the Bridge over Tramway Blvd. NE loop from Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway Parking which, while moderate, offers relatively consistent terrain at the base of the mountains, making it a good option for those building endurance.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Sandia Heights offers 5 difficult routes. The Sandia Crest Scenic Byway (Highway 536) is a prominent and challenging climb, winding through pine forests with numerous switchbacks to the 10,678-foot Sandia Crest, offering rewarding high-altitude views. The Foothills Summit Loop also presents a challenging five-mile ride with significant elevation gain.

While the listed routes are moderate, the region offers family-friendly options. The Paseo del Bosque Trail, a popular 16-mile multi-use trail along the Rio Grande, features paved surfaces and uninterrupted paths, making it ideal for families. Access points are available from areas like the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway Parking.

Yes, many routes in Sandia Heights are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular options include the Bike loop from Embudito Arroyo, the Bear Canyon Trailhead loop from Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway Parking, and the Sandia Foothills Trail 365 – U-Mound Rock Formation loop from Eldorado High School.

Touring cycling routes in Sandia Heights offer stunning and diverse views. You can expect expansive vistas of Albuquerque, the Rio Grande Valley, the Jemez Mountains to the north, and Mount Taylor to the west. Higher elevation routes, like those leading to Sunset View from Sandia Crest, provide breathtaking panoramic scenery. Many routes also offer excellent views of the lower Sandia Mountains and the city lights.

Beyond the cycling, you can explore several attractions. The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway offers breathtaking rides to the mountain top. You might also encounter the historic Kiwanis Cabin, a structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The Albert G. Simms Park in Cibola National Forest is another beautiful spot with trails and views.

Yes, the Sandia Heights area is known for its wildlife. Cyclists may encounter deer, bobcats, and occasionally even mountain lions, especially in the more secluded areas of the Sandia Foothills Open Space. Keep an eye out for these creatures, particularly during dawn and dusk.

The diverse landscape of Sandia Heights offers cycling opportunities year-round, but the best time depends on the elevation. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures for most routes. Summer can be hot at lower elevations, making early mornings or higher-altitude rides more comfortable. Winter cycling is possible, especially on lower paved routes, but higher mountain trails may be affected by snow and ice.

Many touring cycling routes in Sandia Heights are accessible from various parking areas. The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway Parking is a common starting point for several routes, including the Bear Canyon Trailhead loop and the Bridge over Tramway Blvd. NE loop. Other access points include areas near Embudito Arroyo and Eldorado High School.

While specific cafes directly on the trails are limited, the Sandia Heights area is close to Albuquerque, which offers numerous dining options. At the summit of the Sandia Mountains, accessible via the Sandia Peak Tramway, you'll find the TEN 3 restaurant, providing panoramic views with your meal. Many routes also pass through or near residential areas with local establishments.