Severe drought has caused the National Forest Service to close down many of the trails around Albuquerque. Trails in the Sandias, Manzanos, Mazanitos, and Santa Fe National Park areas are currently closed.
But don’t worry, there are still plenty of opportunities to get your family outside that would make a great day trip. Below, I’ve listed areas that are currently open.
Nature Destinations:
- Rio Grand Nature Center State Park – This park is within the city: east of the river and north of I-40. 505-344-7240
- Petroglyph National Monument – This monument is on the far west side of the city. 505-889-0205
- Bosque Trails – all the walking and biking trails along the Bosque are open.
- Bachechi Open Space – This open space is just east of the river and south of Alameda. 505-314-0400
- Albuquerque Bio Park – the zoo is close to old town and the aquarium/botanical gardens are by Tingley beach. 505-768-2000
- Wildlife West Nature Park – this park is in Edgewood, just north of I-40. 505-281-7655.
- Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument – 54 miles north of ABQ (1:02 hour drive) 505-331-6259.
- Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge – 55 miles south of ABQ (48 minute drive) 505-864-4021. During the summer, they are only open Monday through Friday.
- Magdalena Mountains – about 100 miles south of ABQ (1:36 hour drive) 575-854-2281
- Mt. Taylor – about 100 miles west of ABQ (1:55 hour drive) 505-287-8833
Things to do before you leave:
- Call to make sure they are open (ask about the cost of admission)
- Pack plenty of water, food, and sunscreen
- Pack hats and sun glasses
- Arrive early so you can enjoy your adventure before it gets too hot
Nature Activities in your own Backyard
If you’d like to learn more about nature activities you can do in your own backyard, join the Facebook group Nature Challenge. In this group we share ideas for activities and encourage each other to get outside!
Fire Prevention & Management
If you’d like to learn more about how you can prevent forest fires, click here. Thanks Smokey! If you’re interested in knowing how fires are beneficial and the role they play in our ecosystems, click here.