Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Aldo Leopold Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

Aldo Leopold Trail

Easy

4.7

(2986)

9,022

hikers

Aldo Leopold Trail

Q: Where does the Aldo Leopold Trail start, and what are the parking options?

The trail is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and is accessible via the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park. You can find parking at the Nature Center's facilities.

Q: What is the difficulty and length of this trail?

This is an easy trail, rated Grade 1 difficulty. It's a 1.25-mile (approximately 2 km) loop, making it suitable for casual walks and families. Most hikers complete it in about 25 minutes.

Q: Is the Aldo Leopold Trail a loop or an out-and-back route?

It is a loop trail, offering a continuous path through the Bosque without needing to retrace your steps.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

The trail features a mix of paved and dirt paths. You'll cross a bridge and ascend a small hill to reach the top of a levee, providing varied surfaces for your walk.

Q: What can I see along the way, and are there any viewpoints?

You can enjoy the peaceful and beautiful scenery of the Bosque, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and access to the Rio Grande. The elevated sections on the levee offer broader views of the surrounding natural landscape.

Q: Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Paseo del Bosque Trail .

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and active wildlife. The Bosque's beauty changes with the seasons, providing different experiences throughout the year.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the Aldo Leopold Trail?

Information regarding specific dog policies for this trail within the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is not readily available. It's best to check directly with the park authorities before bringing your pet.

Q: Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park?

As the trail is located within the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, standard park entrance fees or permits may apply. It's advisable to check the park's official website for current fee structures and operating hours before your visit.

Q: What wildlife or plants might I encounter on the trail?

The Bosque is a rich habitat for various wildlife. You might spot different bird species, small mammals, and observe the diverse plant life typical of a riparian forest ecosystem along the Rio Grande.

00:24

1.60km

Hiking

Embark on an easy hike along the Aldo Leopold Trail, a peaceful route that winds through the Bosque. You will experience a mix of paved and dirt paths, leading you across a charming bridge and gently up a small hill to the top of a levee. From this vantage point,…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

374 m

Observation Site

Viewpoint

919 m

Viewpoint

1.60 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.16 km

271 m

168 m

Surfaces

1.11 km

263 m

147 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Sunday 17 May

29°C

15°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Aldo Leopold Trail start, and what are the parking options?

The trail is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and is accessible via the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park. You can find parking at the Nature Center's facilities.

What is the difficulty and length of this trail?

This is an easy trail, rated Grade 1 difficulty. It's a 1.25-mile (approximately 2 km) loop, making it suitable for casual walks and families. Most hikers complete it in about 25 minutes.

Is the Aldo Leopold Trail a loop or an out-and-back route?

It is a loop trail, offering a continuous path through the Bosque without needing to retrace your steps.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

The trail features a mix of paved and dirt paths. You'll cross a bridge and ascend a small hill to reach the top of a levee, providing varied surfaces for your walk.

What can I see along the way, and are there any viewpoints?

You can enjoy the peaceful and beautiful scenery of the Bosque, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and access to the Rio Grande. The elevated sections on the levee offer broader views of the surrounding natural landscape.

Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Paseo del Bosque Trail.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and active wildlife. The Bosque's beauty changes with the seasons, providing different experiences throughout the year.

Are dogs allowed on the Aldo Leopold Trail?

Information regarding specific dog policies for this trail within the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is not readily available. It's best to check directly with the park authorities before bringing your pet.

Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park?

As the trail is located within the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, standard park entrance fees or permits may apply. It's advisable to check the park's official website for current fee structures and operating hours before your visit.

What wildlife or plants might I encounter on the trail?

The Bosque is a rich habitat for various wildlife. You might spot different bird species, small mammals, and observe the diverse plant life typical of a riparian forest ecosystem along the Rio Grande.

Is this trail suitable for families with young children or beginners?

Absolutely! Rated as easy and being a well-maintained, clearly marked loop, it's ideal for families with young children, beginners, or anyone looking for a leisurely and accessible outdoor experience.