Rinconada Canyon Trail
Rinconada Canyon Trail
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April 6, 2024
Hiking
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4.8
(8)
119
hikers
3.49km
00:55
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
Step into a landscape where ancient history meets desert geology on the Rinconada Canyon Trail, a moderate 4.8-mile (7.7 km) loop that offers a gentle 157 feet (48 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours. You'll follow sandy paths along a volcanic escarpment, where hundreds of petroglyphs are etched into basalt boulders. The trail provides a unique opportunity to see desert plant life and potentially spot wildlife like mourning doves or collared lizards, all while the city sounds recede into the background.
This Komoot route starts from Saint Pius X High School, but the main trailhead for the petroglyph section is at Unser Blvd NW and St. Joseph Ave. No matter where you begin, remember to bring ample water, as none is available on the trail, especially if you're hiking in the desert heat. The trail is family-friendly, and informational signs along the way provide context for the fascinating rock art.
The most compelling feature of this trail is undoubtedly the up to 300 petroglyphs, created by Ancestral Pueblo People and later inhabitants, offering a tangible link to the region's rich cultural past. Beyond the historical carvings, the trail showcases the geological story of volcanic basalt flows capping sandstone, creating the very canvases for this ancient art. It's a perfect outing for those seeking an accessible hike with significant historical and natural intrigue in the Albuquerque area.
Details
Informations
Distance 805 m
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 10 m
Weather
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Tuesday 16 June
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16°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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