Ready for an outdoor activity you can enjoy alone or with a few friends? With its variable terrain and magnificent mountain views, Albuquerque is the perfect home base for hikers of all abilities. So whether you’re a weekend warrior or an everyday go-getter, we’ve got a hike to get your blood pumping. Just don’t forget your water bottle!

Embudo Trail

From Embudo Trailhead, off Indian School Road in Northeastern Albuquerque, route options on Embudo Trail include a number of different loops, connecting to Trail 365 and the Embudo Horse Trail, covering up to 6.6 miles. Not for the faint of heart, these trails are all rated single or double-black diamond. But the payoff is amazing Instagram-worthy valley views.

White Wash Trail Loop

Just north of Embudo Trailhead off Menaul Boulevard, you’ll find Menaul Trailhead. From here, the White Wash Trail loop offers a hard, steep, 4.2-mile climb, pushing through tufted brown grass patches and prickly cacti, gaining 446 feet before gently setting you down back where you started. Keep your eyes open for wild critters, and invite your on-leash pup.

Boca Negra Canyon Trail

Across the valley, off Unser Boulevard and Atrisco Drive, navigate to the Boca Negra Canyon parking area – home of the Petroglyph National Monument. At Boca Negra Canyon Trail, you can explore a variety of ancient rock art, and there’s an easy .6-mile out-and-back hiking option complete with rails and stairs, perfect for a lazy day or showing relatives around.

Rinconada Canyon Trail

Sticking to the left side of the valley off St. Josephs Avenue Northwest, you’ll find the easy Rinconada Canyon Trail. This 2.2-mile loop should appease those looking to build up a sweat without leading more sensitive trekkers to tears. It also offers fascinating petroglyph views and plenty of New Mexican nature to snap photos of.

We hope some of these hikes tickle your fancy. For more ideas for fun ways to spend your days, visit the Olympus Encantada blog.