Hiking

The Cibola National Forest is San Pedro Overlook’s back yard. Cibola, pronounced “See ‘-bo-lah”, is thought to be the original Zuni Indian name for their group of pueblos or tribal lands. Later, the Spanish interpreted the word to mean, “buffalo.” Valued for its recreation opportunities, natural beauty, timber, watersheds, water, forage, and wilderness resources, the forest is well-known for its amazing views and intense hikes. You can also read about our six miles of San Pedro Overlook Community Trails in the “Amenities” section.

10-K Trail
General Description: Easy loop day hike into the Sandia Mountain Wilderness
Length: About 6.5 miles round trip
Elevation: 9,600 to 10,678 feet
Special Attractions: Views, lush forest, excellent marked winter cross country ski route
Trailhead: Take NM 14 to the Sandia Crest turnoff on NM 536. Follow NM 536 for 11.6 miles to the trailhead, about 2 miles short of the crest.

The Hike: The 10-K Trail got its name because it roughly follows the 10,000-foot elevation contour along the east side of the Sandias. The huge cleared strip was the initial work of a large scenic highway that was planned to run along much of Sandia Crest. Fortunately the plan was killed before it was completed, even though the builders had already cleared an ugly swath several miles long through the forest. The first part of the hike passes through dense forests of aspen, spruce, and Douglas fir. Most of the return loop follows the crest, with spectacular views of the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.

La Luz Trail
General Description: A strenuous day hike through the Sandia Wilderness to the crest of the Sandia Mountains
Length: Approximately 15 miles round trip
Elevation: 7,060 to 10,678 feet
Special Attractions: Great views; challenging hike
Trailhead: From I-40 take Tramway Boulevard exit and follow it north 9.8 miles to paved FR 333. Follow FR 333 for 2.5 miles to the La Luz trailhead at the upper end of the Juan Tabo Picnic Ground.

The Hike: Tremendous faulting tilted the mountains high above the Rio Grande Valley. The steep and rugged west side exposes the bare bones of the earth’s crust as enormous cliffs and pinnacles, while the east side slopes much more gently, with a softening coat of forest. Precambrian granite makes up most of the west face through which the trail climbs. A layer of Pennsylvanian limestone caps the crest. Because of the large elevation gain on the trail, you will pass through several of the West’s major life zones as you go. The increased moisture and lower temperatures found at higher elevations create different habitats.

Tree Spring Trail
General Description: A moderate day hike to the top of the crest
Length: 6 miles round trip
Elevation: 8,460 to 10,290
Special Attractions: Views; lush forest
Trailhead: Take NM 14 south from the Overlook to the NM 536 fork on the right. Follow NM 536 toward Sandia Crest. About 5.7 miles up park at the well marked Tree Spring Trail 147, trailhead on the left.

The Hike: Most of the trails to the crest in the Sandia Mountains are fairly long and strenuous. The Tree Spring Trail is the easiest route to the crest and right in our back yard. It reaches the crest a little more than halfway up this hike after gaining only about 1,000 feet. The trail is well-maintained and follows a steady, moderate grade to the crest. Because of its proximity to Albuquerque, expect to see other hiking enthusiasts.

For more information on these great trails and more hiking throughout New Mexico, please visit www.trails.com.

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