3 Best Hiking Trails in Albuquerque, NM

“Petroglyph National Monument is a National Park site and is an archaeological site with thousands of prehistoric Native American etchings on basalt boulders. Petroglyph National Monument contains patterns and symbols that Native Americans and Spanish settlers carved into volcanic rocks 400 to 700 years ago. This monument of 7,200 acres is co-managed by the National Park Service and the City of Albuquerque Open Space. Petroglyph National Monument has 20,000 petroglyphs and provides the public with opportunities for leisure and education. Tourists can hike the trails from sunrise to sunset in the Volcanoes Day Use Area, Rinconada Canyon, and Piedras Marcadas Canyons. Rinconada Canyon is a 2.2-mile hike. Boca Negra Canyon is open 8:30-4:30 daily.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Picnic Tables Available at Some Trailheads and the Information Center
• Dogs Allowed On Most Trails
• Maintained Paths.”

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“La Luz Trailhead ensures breathtaking views and creates a memorable experience for visitors. The eight-mile trail begins at La Luz Trailhead and reaches an elevation gain of more than 3,500 feet. The total length of the trail is 15.2 miles, and it is generally considered a challenging trail route. The trail type is out-and-back. The estimated time to complete the entire trail is 8 hours and 6 minutes. A 2.3-mile loop below a canopy of cottonwood trees is also available. The path leads from the hot desert landscape to the cool Canadian forest over 7.5 miles one way. The vertical elevation gain is 3,200 feet. Visitors should take plenty of water and high-energy food and give themselves ample time to complete the trail. You can see magnificent ponderosa pine trees rising in the middle of the hike while enjoying great views of Albuquerque.”

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“The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park provides various Picturesque Spots and a calm experience. The center's mission is to preserve and protect the Rio Grande Bosque and educate about the Rio Grande ecosystem. The 38.8-acre park features ponds, gardens, and a visitor center. The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is adjacent to the river forest and hiking trails along the Rio Grande. The nature center features lectures, guided walks, and other educational events. The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park has excellent bird watching throughout the year, allowing visitors to encounter around 250 bird species, including roadrunners and wood ducks. The elevation gain of the trail is 3 to 6 feet. This valuable public resource is enhanced by a trail system along the river, demonstration gardens, and inside and outdoor wildlife-watching places.”

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