The best cycling routes around Albuquerque

Albuquerque offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 60 different options available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy riverside paths to more challenging climbs in the foothills.

Albuquerque boasts approximately 310 days of sunshine annually and mild winters, making it suitable for year-round outdoor exploration. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for touring cycling, but the mild winters also provide excellent conditions.

You'll find diverse terrain, from the lush, flat riparian zones along the Rio Grande to the dramatic elevation changes in the Sandia Mountains. The region also features high desert environments with unique geological formations and volcanic mesas to the west. Routes like Sandia Foothills Open Space – Sandia Foothills Trail 365 loop from Piedra Lisa Canyon Trailhead Parking offer significant elevation gain, while others like View of the Rio Grande – Paso del Bosque Trail loop from Albuquerque are mostly flat.

Yes, Albuquerque has plenty of options for easy touring cycling. Approximately 30 of the routes are classified as easy. A great example is the View of the Rio Grande – Paso del Bosque Trail loop from Albuquerque, which is 14.8 miles (23.8 km) long and offers gentle terrain along the river.

Many routes follow the Rio Grande, offering views of its lush riparian zones, known as 'bosques.' The Sandia Mountains dominate the eastern horizon, providing dramatic backdrops. You can also explore historical sites like the Petroglyphs at Rinconada Canyon Trail or the Petroglyphs of Piedras Marcadas Canyon. For stunning panoramic views, consider routes near the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.

Absolutely. The Tramway Bike Trail, located along the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city, mountains, and desert. Routes in the Sandia Foothills Open Space, such as the Sandia Foothills Open Space – Sandia Foothills Trail 365 loop from Piedra Lisa Canyon Trailhead Parking, also offer expansive vistas.

Yes, Albuquerque's cycling routes often blend natural beauty with cultural exploration. The Paso del Bosque Trail – Paseo del Bosque Trail loop from Albuquerque passes by historic Old Town. Additionally, you can incorporate visits to Petroglyph National Monument, where ancient volcanic rocks are etched with petroglyphs, for a unique blend of history and nature.

While not numerous, the Albuquerque area does feature some natural attractions. You can find Travertine Falls, which can be a point of interest on some routes or a short detour from a cycling path.

Many of Albuquerque's trails are suitable for families. The Paseo del Bosque Bike Trail is a prime example, offering a safe, paved path through cottonwood forests. It's relatively flat and provides access to attractions like the ABQ BioPark, making it ideal for a family outing. The Paseo del Bosque Trail – Rio Grande Sandy Beach Access loop from Cibola High School is another easy option.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 25 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the serene Rio Grande bosques to the challenging Sandia Foothills, and the extensive network of well-maintained trails that cater to all ability levels. The year-round sunshine is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Albuquerque are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular Paso del Bosque Trail – Paseo del Bosque Trail loop from Albuquerque is a 24.1-mile (38.8 km) circular route along the Rio Grande.

Albuquerque's public transportation system, ABQ Ride, offers bike racks on all buses, making it possible to combine cycling with public transport. Many major trails, like the Paseo del Bosque, have access points throughout the city, some of which are near bus stops. For specific routes, it's best to check the ABQ Ride schedule and route maps.

Many popular trailheads and parks in Albuquerque offer dedicated parking. For instance, the Sandia Foothills Open Space – Sandia Foothills Trail 365 loop starts from Piedra Lisa Canyon Trailhead Parking. Along the Paseo del Bosque, various access points and parks provide parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking areas.

Beyond the well-known trails, Albuquerque offers unique experiences like gravel cycling along historic 'acequias' (community irrigation ditches), which provide quiet, scenic paths. The Turquoise Trail, a scenic byway between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, also offers a culturally rich cycling experience through old mining towns, providing a different kind of touring adventure.