The best hikes from bus stations in the Manzano Mountains
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(100)
1,561
hikers
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hikes
Hiking in the Manzano Mountains offers a diverse landscape transitioning from high desert to subalpine forests. The region is characterized by a mix of vegetation, including pinyon pine, juniper, ponderosa pine, spruce, fir, and aspen trees, with elevations reaching over 10,000 feet. Prominent peaks and canyons, such as Fourth of July Canyon and Red Canyon with its unique rock formations, define the terrain. These features provide varied environments for bus station hiking trails.
Best bus station hiking trails in the…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
7
hikers
17.2km
06:34
840m
840m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
3
hikers
8.49km
03:29
440m
440m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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2
hikers
12.5km
05:01
610m
610m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
Sandia Foothills Open Space spans 2560 acres at the base of the Sandia Mountains. It is a desert wonderland with plenty of opportunities for hikers, runners and mountain bikers to enjoy the outdoors without heading too far from the city. There are multiple trails and steeply sloped hills to explore dotted with wildflowers, prickly pear cacti, and cane cholla amidst the juniper and piñon trees.
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The Sandia Foothills Open Space is a popular place with hiking that is handily very close to Albuquerque. There are a number of looped hikes of varying difficulty with plenty of wildlife and nature to see.
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The Eye of the Sandias is a 6.4km hiking loop in the Sandia Foothills Open Space Park. There is also an actual eye painted onto one of the rocks and finding it makes the experience even more special.
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You'll encounter a steady incline leading up to this point, but it's a nice spot to rest and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area, offering a panoramic perspective of the Albuquerque area. Be cautious when choosing connecting trails in the vicinity, as they tend to be more technical in nature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible from bus stations in the Manzano Mountains?
There are currently 3 hiking routes in the Manzano Mountains that are accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a convenient way to explore the region's diverse landscapes without needing a car.
What is the general difficulty of bus-accessible hikes in the Manzano Mountains?
The bus-accessible hikes in the Manzano Mountains, such as the Sandia Foothills Open Space loop from Redbox, are generally considered difficult. They involve significant elevation gain and longer distances, making them suitable for experienced hikers.
Are there any circular routes available from bus stations?
Yes, all three bus-accessible routes in this guide are circular. You can enjoy loops like the U-Mound – Eye of the Sandias loop from Redbox, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point, often near the bus stop.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these bus-accessible trails?
The Manzano Mountains offer a transition from high desert at lower elevations to subalpine forests higher up. On bus-accessible trails, you'll encounter diverse ecosystems including pinyon pine, juniper, ponderosa pine, and potentially aspen trees, especially vibrant during fall. The region is also known for unique rock formations in canyons like Red Canyon.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints along bus-accessible trails?
While specific viewpoints vary by route, the Manzano Mountains are known for panoramic vistas. Trails like the Sandia Foothills Open Space – Eye of the Sandias loop from Redbox offer opportunities to experience the varied terrain. You might also encounter highlights such as U-Mound or enjoy views towards South Sandia Peak View.
What is the best time of year to hike in the Manzano Mountains using public transport?
The Manzano Mountains are a year-round destination. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fall being particularly popular for the spectacular colors of maples in canyons like Fourth of July. Summer can be hot at lower elevations, while winter offers opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, though bus access might be more limited then.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest near the bus-accessible trails?
Yes, the Manzano Mountains have historical significance. The name 'Manzano' comes from the historic apple orchards, some remnants of which are still visible near the state park. You might also find the historical Kiwanis Cabin, built around 1930 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, accessible from some areas.
What do other hikers say about the Manzano Mountains trails?
The Manzano Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.85 stars from 99 ratings. Reviewers often praise the challenging nature of the trails, the diverse ecosystems, and the rewarding views, especially on routes like the Sandia Foothills Open Space loop from Redbox.
Are there any specific wildlife viewing opportunities in the Manzano Mountains?
The diverse habitats of the Manzano Mountains support a variety of wildlife, making it a prime location for wildlife viewing and birding. The area is also an important raptor flyway during spring and fall migrations, offering chances to spot various bird species.
Where can I find more information about Manzano Mountains State Park?
For more details on Manzano Mountains State Park, including its 23 miles of trails and amenities, you can visit the official New Mexico State Parks website: nm.gov.
Most popular routes in the Manzano Mountains
Most popular attractions in the Manzano Mountains
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