Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN ALBUQUERQUE
Planning a vacation to Albuquerque with your bike? You're in for a treat. With wide-open skies, mountain views, and a mix of urban and natural landscapes, Albuquerque is a cyclist's dream. From leisurely river paths to heart-pumping mountain climbs, this city offers something for every type of rider. Whether you're a seasoned touring pro or a casual cruiser looking to sightsee on two wheels, Albuquerque’s diverse terrain and extensive trail system won’t disappoint. Let’s dive into the best bike routes and how to enjoy them like a local.
Top paved trails for scenic rides
Albuquerque’s paved trail network is a cyclist’s paradise, especially for vacationers looking for easy, scenic, and relaxing routes. These paths are mostly flat, well-maintained, and often run alongside the Rio Grande or cut through city parks, offering a stress-free way to explore the city by bike.
The Bosque Trail: The crown jewel of Albuquerque cycling
At the top of every cyclist’s list is the Paseo del Bosque Trail, known simply as the Bosque Trail. This 16-mile paved route runs north to south along the Rio Grande and is almost entirely separated from traffic—ideal for stress-free vacation pedaling. You'll cruise under cottonwood trees, spot roadrunners, and catch mountain views without ever needing to dodge a car. Bonus: It’s incredibly flat, making it perfect for all skill levels.
Length: 16 miles (one-way)
Surface: Smooth pavement, multi-use
Highlights: Rio Grande views, wildlife, Cottonwood Forest
Best for: Beginners, families, sightseers
Tramway Trail: Mountain views without mountain climbs
Want killer views of the Sandia Mountains without the quad burn? Tramway Trail offers a wide, paved shoulder stretching over 10 miles along the base of the Sandias. It’s technically a bike lane rather than a protected trail, but traffic is minimal and the views? Absolutely unbeatable. The gentle uphill grade heading north gives your legs a bit of a challenge, but it’s manageable even for vacation riders.
Length: 10+ miles
Surface: Paved shoulder
Highlights: Sandia foothills, city views
Best for: Intermediate riders, scenic workout
Gravel and dirt routes for adventurers
If your idea of vacation cycling includes dust, adrenaline, and untamed landscapes, Albuquerque delivers. The surrounding desert terrain and foothills are dotted with gravel roads and dirt singletracks that offer a true off-the-grid bike touring experience. These routes are best tackled with a gravel bike, mountain bike, or bikepacking setup—think big tires, water bottles, and sunscreen.
The Foothills Trails: A rugged ride close to town
East of Albuquerque, at the base of the Sandia Mountains, lies a network of trails known as the Sandia Foothills. These aren't beginner paths—but for experienced riders seeking raw terrain and incredible views, it’s a must. Trails vary from mellow fire roads to steep, rocky climbs with technical descents. Best of all, the trailheads are just a 10–15 minute ride from many hotels in the Northeast Heights.
Trail access: Elena Gallegos, Embudo Trailhead
Surface: Dirt, rock, sand
Highlights: Sandia views, cacti, challenging terrain
Best for: Advanced riders, mountain bikers
North Diversion Channel Trail: Paved meets dirt
This hybrid route starts off paved, cutting through the city, then transitions into gravel for the more adventurous segment. The northern parts connect to dirt service roads ideal for testing your tires on uneven terrain. It's a great route for gravel riders who want a bit of urban flavor before heading into open desert spaces.
Length: ~10 miles paved, optional dirt add-ons
Surface: Mixed (pavement to dirt)
Highlights: Urban meets desert
Best for: Gravel cyclists, urban-to-rural explorers
Pro tip: Always check trail conditions before heading out—desert trails can get washed out or sandy after rain. Bring more water than you think you need.
Best multi-day touring circuits
Planning a bike tour that spans a few days? Albuquerque’s central location in New Mexico makes it a great hub for launching multi-day touring adventures. Whether you're packing panniers or bikepacking ultralight, these routes offer a mix of culture, scenery, and challenge—all within pedaling distance of the city.
Turquoise Trail Loop: Culture, climbs, and color
The Turquoise Trail is a designated National Scenic Byway that runs between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Cyclists can build a 2–3 day loop incorporating the Sandia Crest climb, historic towns like Madrid, and some jaw-dropping desert views. Expect a mix of low-traffic highways, rolling climbs, and plenty of stops for art galleries and snacks. You’ll want a road or touring bike with solid climbing gears.
Total distance: ~95–120 miles loop
Elevation gain: ~6,000–7,500 ft
Best for: Intermediate to advanced tourers
Overnight stops: Madrid, Cedar Crest
Rio Grande Corridor: Rivers, pueblos, and hot springs
Another brilliant multi-day option follows the Rio Grande northward, passing through Native pueblos, rural farmland, and sleepy riverside towns. A typical 3–4 day route could stretch from Albuquerque to Española or even Taos. With proper planning, you’ll find small inns, campgrounds, and hidden hot springs along the way. It’s one of the most culturally rich bike tours in the Southwest.
Distance: Varies (~120–180 miles)
Route type: One-way or loop
Best for: Bikepackers, culture seekers
Top sights: Rio Grande, pueblos, Ojo Caliente Hot Springs
Multi-day trips require a bit more prep: double-check accommodations, consider support options, and pack layers—the desert can surprise you with chilly nights even in summer.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED
