Albuquerque Bosque

Rio Grande River Trail: A Gentle Ride in Albuquerque, NM

In the vibrant city of Albuquerque, New Mexico, there's a trail that beckons both beginners and seasoned cyclists alike. The Rio Grande River Trail, spanning an accessible 8 miles, is an invitation to experience the natural beauty that hugs the river's edge.

Trail Overview

• Terrain: Predominantly, cyclists can expect flat, hard-packed dirt, punctuated by occasional sand pits. There are a few spots offering pleasant flowy sections that can boost the thrill of the ride.
• Extension: While the official record might suggest an 8-mile stretch, the trail does meander past Central, offering cyclists a little extra to explore.
• Surroundings: Winding its way through the riparian habitat of the Rio Grande, the trail provides a serene backdrop for a relaxing ride.

Accessibility

For those keen on embarking on this journey:

• East Access: Enter from Poco Loco Road, situated on the east side of the Rio Grande.
• West Access: Shaw Road on the Westside offers another entry point.

Both riverbanks have distinctive attributes, providing varied perspectives of the Rio Grande's beauty.

Trail Insights

• Cyclists are treated to a trail that offers primarily smooth rides with some winding turns. It's an opportunity to test pedaling speeds without significant technical challenges.
• The trail integrates seamlessly into the local ecosystem. Expect to share the path with hikers, runners, and even the occasional horseback rider.
• There are numerous side trails branching out, but the main route remains fairly straightforward to navigate, thanks to its proximity to the river.
• New cyclists have often expressed their fondness for the trail. However, some caution is advised due to the occasional trash from river floods and limited visibility around turns.
• Finding the trailhead can be a tad tricky. Nestled next to a highway bridge, cyclists might need to navigate through a neighborhood to reach it.
• Elevation is barely a concern here. Covering the entire stretch from the North to the South of Albuquerque, there's a negligible elevation difference of approximately 100ft.
• For those focused on endurance training, this trail is ideal. Its cleanliness and lack of technical obstructions make it a