Intersection of Trails 365 and 366

The Foothills Trail North – Intersection of Trails 365 and 366 loop offers a quintessential Albuquerque mountain biking experience, winding through the scenic Sandia Foothills Open Space. You'll navigate a mix of singletrack, from fast and smooth sections to rocky patches, with dynamic climbs and descents into arroyos. The ride provides expansive views of the Sandia Mountains and Sandia Crest, passing through desert flora like juniper and piñon trees, making for a visually engaging journey.

Accessed from the Piedra Lisa Canyon Trailhead Parking, this route is a moderate 18.3-mile (29.5 km) loop with 1404 feet (428 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Be aware that the trails are shared with hikers and runners, and rattlesnakes are common in warmer months. While the trailhead is easily accessible, the Piedra Lisa Canyon Trail itself is not bike-friendly, so stick to Trails 365 and 366 for your ride.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience the diverse landscape and extensive trail network of the Sandia Foothills. The varied terrain, from smooth cruisers to rougher, rocky sections, ensures an engaging ride for those with good fitness. Keep an eye out for wildlife like mule deer and coyotes, adding to the natural appeal of this conveniently located urban escape.

This mountain biking loop offers a fantastic blend of open arroyo riding and varied singletrack, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Sandia Mountains. You'll start on the wide, packed dirt of the Bear Canyon Arroyo, which is smooth and easy, before transitioning to Foothills Trail 365 where the terrain becomes more dynamic, shifting between rock-free sections and areas with more trees and rocks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like roadrunners and quail as you navigate the trail's gentle climbs and descents.

Accessing this route is convenient, with trailheads like El Oso Grande Park providing easy parking for your mountain biking adventure. The interconnectedness of Trails 365 and 366 allows for flexible loop creation, though be aware that the Foothills trails are popular and shared with hikers and runners. While the arroyo sections are great for winter mountain biking, the best time to visit for the full experience is typically spring or fall when temperatures are milder.

The Foothills Trail system, including Trail 365, is well-maintained by both the City's Open Space division and the US Forest Service, ensuring a quality ride. This particular loop, covering 6.7 miles (10.7 km) with 551 feet (168 metres) of elevation gain in about 1 hour, is rated easy, making it an excellent option for those looking for an engaging ride without extreme technical challenges. It's a great way to experience the diverse terrain of the Albuquerque Foothills.