5.0
(4)
59
hikers
15
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Bernalillo traverse a diverse landscape, characterized by the dramatic Sandia Mountains to the east and the tranquil Rio Grande Bosque to the west. The region features high desert terrain with volcanic fields, canyons, and arroyos, offering varied environments for outdoor exploration. This blend of mountain, riverine, and desert ecosystems provides a range of easy paths suitable for different preferences.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
4.83km
01:17
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
6
hikers
2.98km
00:45
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
6.53km
01:41
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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I love to catch the sun ris over the Sandias and above the Rio Grande for the reflecting light so I arrive thirty minutes before sunrise in order to get into position.
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Rio Rancho Bosque Preserve has dirt trails, scattered benches along the way for rests, and a few wildlife habitat viewing locations. There are great views from across the Rio Grande here of the Sandia Mountain Range.
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Chalk Dust Trail is, in the dry season, a dusty trail used by runners and mountain bikers, so if the trail is busy, a bandana or neck buff can help with dust in the air. This area is managed by the Cibola National Forest Office, and the trail is 1.6 miles in length.
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From this spot on the Strip Mine Trail, get a close-up view of Red Hill. The trails around Red Hill have a mix of red and white sand.
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Chalk Dust Trail is, in the dry season, a dusty trail used by hikers and mountain bikers, so if the trail is busy, a bandana or neck buff can help with dust in the air. This area is managed by the Cibola National Forest Office, and the trail is 1.6 miles in length.
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There are 5 easy hiking trails specifically curated for this guide, perfect for a relaxed outing. In total, komoot offers 15 hiking routes in the Bernalillo area, catering to various skill levels.
Bernalillo enjoys approximately 310 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for hiking most of the year. Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures for comfortable exploration. Even winter can be pleasant for easy hikes, though higher elevations in the Sandia Mountains may have snow.
Yes, several easy loop hikes are available. For example, the Mustang Alley, Bootleg, Bobsled, and Fence Line Trails Loop offers a pleasant 4.8 km circuit. Another great option is the View of Red Hill – Chalk Dust Trail loop, also around 4.8 km.
Easy trails in Bernalillo offer diverse terrain. You can find tranquil riverside paths along the Rio Grande Bosque, such as the Hiking loop from Rio Rancho Bosque Nature Preserve, or trails winding through high-desert landscapes with prickly pear and desert sage, like the Bootleg Trail loop from Placitas Trail Head.
Absolutely! The easy trails around Bernalillo are perfect for families. Routes like the Hiking loop from Rio Rancho Bosque Nature Preserve are relatively flat and shorter, making them ideal for children and leisurely strolls.
Many easy hikes offer beautiful views. Trails in the Placitas area, like the View of Red Hill – Chalk Dust Trail loop, provide glimpses of the Sandia Mountains. The Rio Grande Bosque trails offer lush riparian scenery. You can also explore the Chalk Dust Trail itself, which is a notable feature in the area.
Many trails in the Bernalillo area are dog-friendly, especially those in the Cibola National Forest and along the Rio Grande Bosque. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out, as some protected areas or monuments may have restrictions. Always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Bernalillo, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, diverse landscapes, and the accessibility of these easy routes for all skill levels.
While not directly on these easy trails, the region is rich in history. Petroglyph National Monument, with its ancient rock art, is a short drive away and offers easy walking paths to explore. The area also has remnants of mining history, such as the Old Mine Shaft in Cibola National Forest, which can be seen near some trails.
The easy hikes in this guide vary in length and duration. For instance, the Hiking loop from Rio Rancho Bosque Nature Preserve can be completed in about 45 minutes, while longer loops like the Hiking loop from Rio Rancho Bosque Preserve South Entrance might take around 1 hour and 40 minutes, depending on your pace.


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