Paseo Del Bosque and Riverside Loop

The loop is approximately 4.1 kilometers (2.5 miles) long and generally takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. This duration can vary depending on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, this loop is rated as easy and is predominantly flat, making it an excellent choice for beginners, families, and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. It's a multi-use path, so you'll find hikers, runners, and cyclists enjoying it.

The terrain is a mix of paved and unpaved sections. The main Paseo del Bosque Trail is a smooth, paved path, while other sections, particularly those closer to the river, are dirt trails winding through the cottonwood forest. Both offer an easy walking surface.

You'll be immersed in the natural beauty of the Rio Grande's cottonwood forest, known as the 'Bosque.' The trail runs parallel to the Rio Grande, offering glimpses of the water. It's a haven for wildlife, so keep an eye out for sandhill cranes, roadrunners, bald eagles, great blue herons, and various small mammals. Views of the Sandia Mountains are also visible from certain points.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. However, the fall offers vibrant displays of golden cottonwood leaves, and spring brings fresh greenery. The dense cottonwood forest provides significant shade, making it pleasant even on warmer days. For birdwatching, spring and fall migrations are particularly rewarding.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, all dogs must be kept on a leash to protect the local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

There are multiple access points along the broader Paseo del Bosque Trail, many of which offer parking. For this specific loop, you can often find parking near access points that lead into the Rio Grande Valley State Park area in Albuquerque. Check local city resources for specific parking lot locations.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the Paseo Del Bosque and Riverside Loop or the Rio Grande Valley State Park itself. It's a publicly accessible multi-use trail system.

Yes, this route utilizes sections of several other trails. You'll be on parts of the Paseo del Bosque Trail, the Riverside Trail, and even a small section of the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail - Bernalillo County.

Yes, a significant portion of the loop, especially the dirt paths, winds through the dense cottonwood forest (the 'Bosque'), providing ample shade. This makes it a cooler and more comfortable experience, particularly during sunny days.

Beyond the main paved path, look for the narrower dirt trails that hug the river for a more immersive experience within the Bosque. The trail also provides access to the Rio Grande Nature Center, which is excellent for birdwatching and learning about the ecosystem. You might also spot public art installations along certain sections.