Sunset View from Sandia Crest – Sandia Crest Overlook loop from Copper Trailhead

The "Sunset View from Sandia Crest – Sandia Crest Overlook loop from Copper Trailhead" is listed as a demanding road cycling route, covering 59.0 miles (95.0 km) with a staggering 6284 feet (1915 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours and 8 minutes. While the Komoot data suggests road cycling, it's crucial to note that the Copper Trailhead area is primarily known for multi-use trails, some of which are unpaved and better suited for mountain bikes. If you're considering this route on a road bike, be prepared for an exceptionally difficult challenge that likely involves navigating varied terrain not ideal for a racebike, culminating in the iconic climb to Sandia Crest for those renowned sunset views.

What to expect on Sunset View from Sandia Crest – Sandia Crest Overlook loop from Copper Trailhead

This route, if you manage to navigate the initial sections from Copper Trailhead, transitions into the classic, challenging ascent of Sandia Crest. You'll journey through a remarkable progression of vegetation zones, starting with lower elevation areas featuring locust trees and wildflowers in spring, then climbing into dense ponderosa, aspen, and spruce forests. The road itself, particularly the paved Sandia Crest National Scenic Byway (NM536), is a demanding climb with an average grade around 5.3%, featuring numerous switchbacks and reaching altitudes of 10,640 feet. As you ascend, the views dramatically open up, offering panoramic vistas of Albuquerque, the Rio Grande Valley, and distant peaks like Mount Taylor and the Jemez Mountains, making the effort worthwhile for experienced road cyclists seeking a high-altitude challenge and spectacular scenery.

Planning your visit

While the Komoot route starts at Copper Trailhead, the most established road cycling ascent to Sandia Crest typically begins from areas like Tijeras or Cedar Crest, accessing the paved NM536. Traffic on NM536 is generally light, especially in summer evenings, but always be mindful of dirt on tight corners during the descent. The summit offers a USFS visitor center and amenities for refueling. Given the high altitude and significant elevation gain, bring plenty of water and layers, as temperatures at the crest can be considerably cooler, especially after sunset. The best time to cycle for sunset views is late afternoon, allowing enough time for the challenging climb before dusk.

Trail details

• Distance: 59.0 miles (95.0 km)
• Elevation gain: 6284 feet (1915 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 5 hours and 8 minutes