The best gravel rides in Rio Grande Nature Center State Park

The Sandia Crest loop offers an exceptionally scenic and challenging gravel biking experience, winding through diverse terrain and multiple vegetation zones. You'll climb through ponderosa, aspen, and spruce forests, enjoying vibrant fall colors and wildflowers, before reaching the 10,679-foot summit. From the Crest, you're rewarded with expansive panoramic views of Albuquerque, Mount Taylor, and the distant Jemez Mountains, making this 75.0-mile (120.6 km) route with 4471 feet (1363 metres) of elevation gain a truly memorable, difficult ride that takes around 8 hours and 53 minutes.

This strenuous route is not recommended for beginners due to its demanding nature and significant elevation gain. Riders should be prepared for varied surfaces, including well-maintained gravel and paved sections, and the physical exertion required for the high-altitude climb. Always check the weather forecast, as summit temperatures can be much colder than at the base, even during warmer months.

The Sandia Crest loop is renowned as one of New Mexico's most difficult and rewarding ascents, offering a glimpse into interesting geological features like exposed sandstone and limestone layers. It's a prime example of popular trails and routes for advanced gravel biking in the Sandia Mountains, providing excellent opportunities to practice downhill technique on its tight turns while soaking in the dramatic views overlooking the Rio Grande Valley.

The Paseo del Bosque Trail offers a delightful gravel biking experience through Albuquerque's lush cottonwood "bosque" along the Rio Grande. You'll pedal past peaceful river views, catch glimpses of the distant Sandia Mountains, and might even spot local wildlife like roadrunners or coyotes. The route is mostly packed fine-gravel, providing a smooth ride, though some sections can be sandy or muddy after rain.

This moderate 18.5-mile (29.8 km) trail, with a minimal 76 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, is suitable for all skill levels and takes about 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. There are numerous access and parking points along its length, making it easy to hop on and off. Consider tubeless tires with sealant to prevent flats from thorns, and be mindful that high river flows can occasionally submerge parts of the trail.

Recognized as one of the premier bicycle trails in the Southwest, the Paseo del Bosque Trail is a multi-use path shared with walkers and runners. Don't miss the "Bike In Coffee" shop just past I-40 for a unique stop, or plan your visit for early October to enjoy the spectacle of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta from the trail.

The Atrisco Riverside Drain trail offers a delightful gravel biking experience through Albuquerque's unique riparian landscapes. You'll pedal along well-maintained gravel paths, enjoying continuous views of the Rio Grande and its extensive cottonwood bosque, which provides a welcome tree canopy. The 21.0-mile (33.8 km) route is generally easy to moderate, with only 75 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, making it a comfortable ride that takes around 2 hours and 59 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature, transitioning from semi-urban areas to peaceful rural farmland.

Planning your ride on the Atrisco Riverside Drain is simple, as it's part of the larger Paseo del Bosque Trail network, ensuring a traffic-free environment. While specific parking isn't detailed, numerous access points along the Paseo del Bosque typically offer convenient parking. The trail's shaded corridor, provided by the lush cottonwood trees, makes it particularly pleasant during warmer weather. For the most comfortable experience, aim to visit during the cooler morning or late afternoon hours.

This trail is notable for its historical significance, following a 13-mile drainage channel constructed in the 1930s for irrigation and stormwater management. The area, known as the Valle de Atrisco, boasts a rich agricultural heritage dating back to 1692. Beyond its historical roots, the trail offers excellent connectivity, linking various parts of Albuquerque while showcasing a diverse blend of residential, commercial, and agricultural lands, all within a scenic, natural setting.