Pino Outer Loop

The Pino Outer Loop trailhead is accessible from the Elena Gallegos Open Space area in Albuquerque, New Mexico. There is a parking lot available at the open space entrance.

Yes, there is a small parking fee to enter the Elena Gallegos Open Space. It is typically $1 on weekdays and $2 on weekends. No additional hiking permits are mentioned beyond this entrance fee.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them. Given the challenging nature of the trail and potential for wildlife, this is crucial for safety and trail etiquette.

The trail offers year-round appeal, but conditions vary significantly. Fall is often recommended for its beautiful foliage. Late spring and early summer are great for wildflowers. While challenging, the trail can be hiked in winter (potentially requiring microspikes for snow) and summer (requiring ample hydration due to heat).

No, the Pino Outer Loop is considered a difficult or hard hike. It involves a significant and continuous elevation gain, with sections reaching steep grades. Hikers should have a good level of fitness and be prepared for a challenging ascent and descent.

The route takes you through diverse terrain. The lower section features open, flat high desert scrub with juniper and piñon pines. As you ascend, it transitions into an alpine forest with ponderosa pines and spruces, eventually reaching groves of quaking aspen higher up. The trail is mostly packed dirt but includes several 'scree' sections with loose rock.

Along the route, you'll pass through notable sections like Foothills Trail North and reach the Intersection of Trails 365 and 366. The journey itself offers expansive mountain views, and the ecological diversity as you climb through different climate zones is a highlight.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of other trails. You'll hike along parts of Trail #230 and Trail #305, as well as a significant portion of the Foothills Trail North. The main Pino Trail (which this loop utilizes) also connects to the Sandia Crest Trail (#130) at its upper end, offering options for longer adventures.

The diverse environment supports various wildlife. Mule deer are commonly seen, especially in the foothills during winter. Keep an eye out for other high desert and mountain fauna as you traverse the different climate zones.

While the name suggests a loop, the core Pino Trail is often described as an out-and-back route to the Sandia Crest. However, this specific komoot tour, the "Pino Outer Loop," is designed to be a circular route, likely by combining the Pino Trail with other connecting paths to form a complete loop.

Given its difficulty and length, you should bring plenty of water, especially in warmer months. Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the varied terrain and scree sections. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is advisable, and layers of clothing are recommended due to changing temperatures with elevation. Trekking poles can be helpful for stability, particularly on the descent.