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Hike of the Week: 10K Trail North

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all Sierra Club outings and in-person events have been cancelled through February 28th, 2021. While we’re all disappointed, we understand that everyone’s health and safety are most important. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get out and go for a hike! Our do-it-yourself outings are designed with you in mind and offer a range of difficulties and outdoor experiences. We hope you’ll climb the mountains and receive their good tidings during this challenging time.

Remember to check the location for warnings and closures before you go.

10K Trail North (Trail 200)

How about a hit of fresh air? Enjoy the cool of the autumn on the North 10K trail. It follows along the 10,000 foot contour of the Sandia mountains on an undulating and beautifully forested trail. It ends at a cliff with stunning views of the Jemez mountains and the western horizon.

Location: Albuquerque – east mountains
Difficulty: Moderate, ~5.0 miles round trip, out and back with approximately 400 feet of elevation gain (net)/1,200 feet (gross).
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
Cost: $0 on Veterans Day/$3 amenity fee per vehicle
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Map: Forest Service, Sandia Mountain Trails | Albuquerque Senior Center Hiking Group | All Trails | Google maps

The Hike: The trail starts at the north end of the parking lot and proceeds along a well marked path. You’ll proceed almost straight north and pass the turn-off for the Osha Loop trail and the Survey trail as you get closer to the Sandia crest, however you’ll remain tending uphill. You’ll break out into a small clearing with large limestone boulders and the intersection of the Crest trail just before you reach the cliff edge. Enjoy a snack, some water and the views before you reverse course and return to your car.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check the weather before you go and even if there’s snow it’s a great snowshoe and cross-country ski trail.

To Get There: Take I-40 East to exit 175 and go North on NM-14 towards Cedar Crest. From the exit proceed North on NM-14 for approximately 6 miles and turn left (East) onto NM-536. Look for the Sandia Ski Area sign and the Shell station as prompts for the turnoff onto NM-536. Travel up NM-536 for approximately 10.5 miles until you see a sign for the 10K Trailhead. The parking area will be on the right side of the road.

Stay healthy!

Hike of the Week: 10K Trail North