Agua Sarca, North Crest, and Del Orno Loop

This loop is consistently rated as difficult. The Agua Sarca trail section is particularly challenging due to its relentless steepness, and portions like the Del Orno trail can be very steep with grades up to 24% and rough, loose, slippery rock. It's considered an adventurous hike over a less-used route.

The terrain varies significantly. The Agua Sarca trail starts with a smooth incline that quickly becomes rocky and relentlessly steep, often overgrown. The Del Orno portion is steep and rough with loose, slippery rock. The North Crest Trail, which is part of the loop, traverses rocky hillsides with pinion pine trees and junipers, offering mixed sun and shade.

While the Agua Sarca trail itself isn't overly scenic along its entire length, the view from the top where it joins the North Crest Trail is lovely. As you traverse the North Sandia Rim, you'll get down-valley views of Agua Sarca Canyon, panoramas of the lower countryside to the east, and superb vistas stretching towards Placitas to the north. Views of Albuquerque to the southwest are also available.

Given the steep and potentially loose terrain, it's highly advisable to wear boots with sticky soles and bring trekking poles. Navigation can be tricky, especially on the unmaintained Agua Sarca section, so a GPS device or detailed waypoints are essential for staying on track.

Yes, the route incorporates significant sections of the North Crest Trail, which makes up a large portion of the loop. It also briefly touches upon the Penasco Blanco Trail and, of course, includes the Agua Sarca Trail and Del Orno Trail sections.

No, this loop is not suitable for beginners. It is consistently rated as difficult and requires good physical fitness due to its relentless steepness, rough terrain, and potential navigation challenges. Hikers should have experience with challenging trails.

The trail offers diverse ecosystems and changing scenery as it gains considerable elevation. While specific seasonal conditions aren't detailed, generally, spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures for strenuous hikes in the Sandia Mountains. Summer can be very hot, and winter may bring snow and ice, making the already challenging terrain even more difficult.

As this trail is located within the Sandia Mountain Wilderness, dogs are generally permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all pet waste.

The Agua Sarca, North Crest, and Del Orno Loop is located within the Sandia Mountain Wilderness. While there isn't typically an entrance fee for the wilderness area itself, specific regulations apply to wilderness use. It's always best to check the USDA Forest Service website for the latest information on permits or restrictions for the Sandia Mountain Wilderness.

The starting point for this loop would typically be at a trailhead providing access to the Agua Sarca or Del Orno trails in the north Sandia Mountains. Specific parking details are not provided, but access points for trails in this wilderness area usually have designated parking lots. It's recommended to research specific trailhead access points and parking availability before your hike.

This challenging hike, covering approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) with over 800 meters (2,600 feet) of elevation gain, is estimated to take around 5 hours and 20 minutes to complete. However, individual times may vary significantly based on fitness level, trail conditions, and time spent enjoying the views.