These Top Albuquerque Bike Trails Are Perfect For Family Rides
Whether you live in or around Albuquerque or are just visiting, we can all agree that the scenery is spectacular. What better way to see the sights than by bicycles? We’ve picked out the top Albuquerque bike trails so you can get the whole family on the road (or trail) with ease. Don’t forget to pack all your essentials for biking before heading out the door!
Embudo Canyon Trailhead
There’s almost 11 miles worth of dirt trails in the Embudo Canyon Open Space, however many are quite difficult. Those biking with kiddos will want to hang out on the trails in the foothills. Beautiful wildflowers adorn the trail edges and brighten up the desert foliage. The sunsets in this park are breathtaking making it a perfect place for a late night ride. Bring the kids along in the trailer where they can cozy up with a blanket and their favorite stuffed animal.
Elena Gallegos Open Space
The Elena Gallegos Open Space has a multitude of dirt trails to choose from in the 64-acre park. A few of the trails are for hikers only so be sure to check out a map of the foothills before you go. Once arrived you’ll find a desert oasis with the Sandia Mountains as a backdrop. The Sandia Mountains were named for their pink colors at sunset (Sandia is Spanish for watermelon). The varied landscape in the Elena Gallegos Open Space is perfect for youngsters to learn about different plants and animals.
Mariposa Basin Park
If you’re a beginning cyclist or you have children that aren’t quite sure about long rides yet, then the trails at Mariposa Basin Park are for you. With three loops each 1 mile or less, you can test out your wheels and continue looping as many times as you need. Each trail is 3-6 feet wide and paved. The little duck pond is a perfect place to stop for a rest. Or check out the open fields of grass to let the kids burn off extra energy. While there’s plenty of shade provided in the park, you’ll still want to pack water and sunscreen before heading out.
Paseo del Bosque Trail
This paved multi-use trail follows the Rio Grande for approximately 16 miles. For much of the distance, there is also a hard packed dirt trail that you can choose to use instead. This is the perfect place for families new to cycling as the trail is uninterrupted by roadways. Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy public art at several locations including Tingley Beach and Central Avenue. Make sure to view a map of the access points when planning your trip. Don’t forget to have fun!
Beginner and expert cyclists alike will find the Albuquerque bike trails to be satisfying and challenging. Make sure that you maintain your cycling equipment as the dust from the hard pack dirt trails can gum up bike chains, gears, and brakes. We hope that you enjoy these trails – make sure to let us know if you have a favorite Albuquerque trail we haven’t included.
images:
Embudo Canyon – Jacques T.
Elena Gallegos – Denise H.
Mariposa Basin Park – Sean S.
Paseo del Bosque – Lu S.
Main – Anthony J.
