Albuquerque NM: Albuquerque Chapter, Elena Gallegos Hike

DIRECTIONS: From Tramway, turn east onto Simms Park Road. When you reach the entrance booth, keep going to the right and follow the road all the way uphill until you reach the high point where there is parking and restrooms. The trailhead to Pino Trail is at the high point of that circular road in the Elena Gallegos picnic area.  

To obtain an Open Space Annual Pass for $30.00 and valid for one year, go to the City of Albuquerque Open Space web page and order online. It can also be purchased at Elena Gallegos if the entrance booth has someone working there. If not buying an annual pass, the entrance fee is $1.00. You can use your credit card at a pay kiosk, get your receipt, and put it on your windshield.

DESCRIPTION: The hike is 4.22 miles long.  It will be about a three-hour walk. The elevation at the start is around 6500 feet and the high point is 6900 feet. From the Pino Trailhead (around 6500 feet), it is a steady climb up to the high point (6900 feet), and where we head NW along trail #341.  From there it is rolling terrain, very groomed trails, and a few places where we are going up or down a few rocks.  There is some shade, but not much; it is fairly open.  There are great views of the upper Sandias and some nice overlooks into Albuquerque. Bring hiking poles.

Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, (and snacks if desired). There are no bathrooms or water on the trail. There are several benches for an occasional break, or we can sit on a boulder. Dress appropriately for the weather.

After the walk, we will gather for a potluck lunch in the picnic area.