Overview

Natural Features:

The picnic area is just 15 miles from Albuquerque at an altitude of 7,500 feet. It is nestled in a dense forest of tall pines and is surrounded by mountainous terrain.

The Sandias are home to Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, mule deer, black bear and many other species of wildlife and birds, including golden eagles often seen soaring at the crest.

Recreation:

The nearby Sandia Crest Scenic Highway travels 13.6 miles to the ridge of the Sandia Mountains. It is a popular path for motorcyclists and auto touring, with its miles of winding road to the summit.

The surrounding area contains many hiking, biking and horseback riding trails.

Sandia Peak Ski Area offers a tram to 10,678' Sandia Crest, which gives visitors a different vantage point from which to view the surrounding range and valleys. It provides a panoramic view of Albuquerque and the Rio Grande Valley below. Sunsets are spectacular, as are night views of the city lights and starry skies.

Facilities:

The picnic area offers two large, accessible group picnic shelters, replicas of a mid-1930's Civilian Conservation Corps design. Each can accommodate up to 30 people and is equipped with multiple picnic tables and grills.

Accessible vault toilets are provided. Water is not available at the site, nor is firewood or charcoal. A small fee is typically charged for day use parking. Additional individual picnic areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Nearby Attractions:

The rock walls and pinnacles on the west side of the Sandia Range provide abundant rock climbing opportunities. The terrain also provides numerous launching spots for hang gliding, which is popular during summer months.