Hiking in Placitas is an excellent way to get out and enjoy New Mexico’s beautiful scenery. The area is home to a large trail system that’s perfect for biking or hiking with friends and family. The trails are well-marked and offer great views of the Sandia Mountains. The area is also known for its free-roaming wild horses. They can be a fun addition to your hike but they can also be dangerous so it’s important to watch them closely and be aware of your surroundings.
The Las Placitas Association manages a 560-acre parcel of City of Albuquerque Open Space with gentle trails, wildflowers, and birds. The trails are easy to access off NM 165, about 2.5 miles east of I-25. Placitas is the ideal destination for hiking, as there are many popular trails with fantastic views, an abundance of wildlife, and endless wildflowers to observe. While you may have heard of some of these great trails, there are also a few hidden gems.
Placitas Strip Mine Trail
Hiking in Placitas is a real treat for any outdoor enthusiast, whether you’re in search of the perfect view or are looking for a challenge. One of the most popular trails in the area is the Strip Mine trail, which is named for its proximity to the historic mining district. This 3.5-mile loop offers some of the best views in the region and offers great camping, and horseback riding, as well as hiking. The hike is also well-marked and has plenty of parking. It’s also a great way to see some of the area’s wild horses in action. This hike is a must on any seasoned hiker’s list of things to do in the Albuquerque area.
Piedra Lisa Trail
If you’re a hiker looking for a trail that offers great views in addition to a great workout, Piedra Lisa Trail is the right choice for you. It’s a well-traveled trail that is popular among hikers and horseback riders. It is also known for its great wildlife and wildflowers. It is a black diamond singletrack and can be used in both directions, making it ideal for hikers who are looking for a roundtrip hike. This hiking trail is a must-try in Placitas, New Mexico!
Located in the northeastern part of Albuquerque, the Piedra Lisa Trail is a popular option for local hikers, and is recommended for anyone looking for an adventure. Piedra Lisa Trail is a beautiful trail filled with spectacular views that will take you into the heart of the Sandia Mountains. This trail travels around the base of the Sandia Peak where you can enjoy great views of both the mountain and the city below.
Osha Spring Trail
One of the most popular and challenging scenic trails in the Cibola National Forest is the Osha Spring Trail. The hike is also home to some of the best birdwatching in the state of New Mexico. There are many other notable attractions along the way, including the aforementioned Osha Springs and the nearby Dry Camp Picnic area, the latter of which is one of the most photographed picnic spots in the country.
Mustang Alley Trail
The Mustang Alley Trail is a beautiful and popular hiking trail located in Placitas, New Mexico. This trail has a lot to offer, including great views, wildlife, and wildflowers throughout the year. This is also a popular trail for horseback riding. You can even find a place to camp if you’re interested in spending the night on the trail. The Mustang Alley Trail is a wonderful option for new hikers or those looking to enjoy a casual stroll through beautiful New Mexican scenery, as well as for experienced hikers who are looking for a way to relax and enjoy all that Placitas has to offer.
Enjoy a Hike in Placitas, New Mexico
Whether you’re in search of a challenging trail to satisfy your inner adventurer or are looking for a family-friendly hike filled with beautiful New Mexican scenery—Placitas has a variety of beautiful hiking destinations ready to be explored! Find the right trail for both your experience level and your preferences and plan your hike in and around Placitas, New Mexico! Enjoy unforgettable views, an abundance of wildlife and flowers, and the Sandia Mountains, and plan your next hiking destination today!