Las Huertas Canyon

4.7/5 (21 reviews)
The drive through Las Huertas Canyon in the Sandia Mountain Wilderness is a popular one due to its close proximity to the Albuquerque Metropolitan Area. In addition to providing an alternate route to Sandia Peak, this trail offers people an escape into a cool pine forest, away from the heat and bust...Read More
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Highlights of Las Huertas Canyon

Altitude Category IconAltitude
Beginner Category IconBeginner
Forest Category IconForest
Highest Elevation
8659 ft
Shape of Trail
Straight Through
Typically Open
05/01 - 12/01
Best Direction
South
Official Trail Name
165
Nearest Town
Placitas
Nearest Services
Bernalillo
Management Agency
National Forest Service
District
Sandia Ranger District, Cibola National Forest

Overview

The drive through Las Huertas Canyon in the Sandia Mountain Wilderness is a popular one due to its close proximity to the Albuquerque Metropolitan Area. In addition to providing an alternate route to Sandia Peak, this trail offers people an escape into a cool pine forest, away from the heat and bustle of nearby cities and towns. This trail also provides access to two large group picnic sites (Las Huertas and Balsam Glade), limitless hiking opportunities, and the Sandia Cave archaeological site. The Sandia Cave (a.k.a. Sandia Man Cave) is a National Historic Landmark that has played an important role in the history of archaeological thought about the Paleoindian period and Southwestern archaeology. It is located high up on the steep cliff walls of Las Huertas Canyon. Las Huertas Creek, which is adjacent to the trail, is the only year-round stream in the Sandia Range. The water draws birds and other wildlife to the picnic grounds and surrounding areas. aspen and fir trees surround the trail, providing shade from the sun.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Guide Overview
5 Waypoints
17 Trail Photos
1 Trail Concerns
21 Community Reviews
1 Video
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