TOP 30 Best Nature preserve trails in New Mexico

The Montaño Paseo del Bosque Trail Bridge is a picturesque bridge located along the Paseo del Bosque Trail in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, New Mexico. This institution serves as a vital connection for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts exploring the beautiful surroundings of the park. With stunning views of the surrounding landscape, this bridge offers a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, the Montaño Paseo del Bosque Trail Bridge is the perfect starting point for your outdoor adventure.

The Riverside Nature Center, located on North Browning Parkway in Farmington, New Mexico, is a unique institution that combines the elements of a museum, park, and tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the center's beautiful outdoor spaces, which showcase the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The center offers educational programs and exhibits that highlight the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. Whether you're looking to learn more about the natural world or simply enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature, the Riverside Nature Center is a must-visit destination in Farmington.

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is a beautiful and serene park located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Situated at 2901 Candelaria Road Northwest, this park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, bird watching opportunities, and stunning views of the Rio Grande river. Visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area, including cottonwood trees, cattails, and various bird species. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure in nature, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is the perfect destination.

Wildlife West Nature Park is a charming tourist attraction located in Edgewood, New Mexico, United States. This unique zoo offers visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of the natural world up close. With a focus on wildlife conservation and education, the park is home to a diverse range of animals, including native species such as wolves, bears, birds of prey, and more. Visitors can stroll through the park's scenic grounds, watch captivating animal demonstrations, and learn about the importance of preserving our planet's precious ecosystems. Wildlife West Nature Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Golden Open Space Los Duendes Trail is a picturesque park located on La Madera Road in Sandia Park, New Mexico. This serene and beautiful trail is perfect for hikers and nature lovers looking to explore the stunning landscapes of the Southwest. With its golden-hued open spaces and enchanting views, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area while enjoying a leisurely walk or challenging hike. The park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and relaxation in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to unwind amidst the beauty of nature or embark on an adventure-filled trek, Golden Open Space Los Duendes Trail is sure to captivate and inspire all who visit.

Rinconada Canyon Trail is a park and tourist attraction located at 7601 Saint Josephs Avenue in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States. This institution offers visitors insight into the geologic, cultural, and natural resources of Petroglyph National Monument. The trail takes you through a narrow valley that appears frozen in time, surrounded by volcanic boulders and desert plant and animal life. The canyon is rich in history, with remnants of Spanish activity and petroglyphs created by ancestral Puebloans. The petroglyphs, believed to be 400 to 700 years old, depict human-like figures, animals, and geometric designs. Visitors are encouraged to respect the significance of these cultural artifacts and report any vandalism to park authorities. The institution also offers volunteer opportunities for those interested in monitoring the canyon and other sites within the monument. Explore Rinconada Canyon Trail to connect with the land's history and natural beauty.

Madonna of the Trail is a historic landmark and popular tourist attraction located at 323 Marble Avenue Northwest in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This iconic statue pays tribute to the pioneer women who traveled westward in the 19th century, symbolizing their strength, perseverance, and courage. Visitors can admire the impressive sculpture and learn about the important role women played in shaping the American frontier. The Madonna of the Trail is a must-see destination for history buffs and anyone interested in the rich heritage of the American West.

Turquoise Trail Campgrounds is a serene and picturesque getaway located at 22 Calvary Road in Cedar Crest, New Mexico, United States. Nestled in the heart of the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, this campground offers a perfect blend of nature and comfort for those looking to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors. With a variety of lodging options including tent sites, RV hookups, and cozy cabins, Turquoise Trail Campgrounds caters to all types of travelers. The well-maintained park features lush greenery, towering trees, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and recreation.

Sandia Mountain Natural History Center is a renowned educational institution located at 60 Columbine Lane in Cedar Crest, New Mexico. Nestled in the breathtaking Sandia Mountains, this center offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the natural wonders of the region. With interactive exhibits, guided hikes, and educational programs, visitors can learn about the diverse flora and fauna that call this area home. The center also serves as a hub for research and conservation efforts, making it a vital resource for those passionate about preserving the natural beauty of the Sandia Mountains. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, student, or researcher, Sandia Mountain Natural History Center provides a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the world around you.

Dancing Horse Trail is a picturesque park located in the heart of Teec Nos Pos, New Mexico. This stunning trail offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying a leisurely walk or bike ride. With its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere, Dancing Horse Trail is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting outdoor adventure, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Dancing Horse Trail and experience the beauty of the Southwest for yourself.

Los Poblanos Fields Open Space is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States. Visitors can enter the Open Space area from west bound Montano Boulevard, with suggested routes starting at the parking area and going in a clockwise direction. The trails offer different distances and difficulty levels, with options ranging from 1 to 1.9 miles in length. The trail surface consists of very wide natural farm roads and ditch banks, providing a unique and scenic hiking experience. Access to the Open Space can also be gained from Alvarado Elementary School in the Village of Los Ranchos. The location is easily accessible from 4th St then west to the site. For emergencies, visitors can call 911, while non-emergency police calls can be made to 505-242-COPS. The City of Albuquerque assumes no responsibility for the content of external sites linked to the Open Space area.

Valle del Bosque Park is a serene oasis located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States. Situated at 480 Sunset Road Southwest, this park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy the lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas that make Valle del Bosque Park the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply enjoy nature, Valle del Bosque Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in Albuquerque.

Santa Fe Village Park is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 5700 Bogart Street Northwest in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States. The park features a short loop that circles the children’s playground, with the southern segment offering a bit of a steep incline. The park has two trail options, one with a distance of .3 miles and the other with a distance of .7 miles, both of which are rated as Grade 1-2 in difficulty. The trails are surfaced with 4-6 foot wide concrete paths, making them accessible for all visitors. In case of emergencies, visitors can call 911 or for non-emergency police calls, they can contact 505-242-COPS. For more information, visitors can call 311 or 505-768-2000, report online, or email 311 at [email protected] Santa Fe Village Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and take in the natural beauty of the area.

El Oso Grande Park is a picturesque park located at 10600 Osuna Road Northeast in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With sprawling green spaces, walking trails, and picnic areas, El Oso Grande Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon with family and friends. The park also features a playground for children, making it a great destination for families looking to enjoy some outdoor fun. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or get some exercise, El Oso Grande Park is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.

Camino De Los Montoyas Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 3701 Camino De Los Montoyas in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With well-maintained walking paths, lush greenery, and scenic views, Camino De Los Montoyas Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area, this park has something for everyone. Come and explore all that Camino De Los Montoyas Park has to offer!

Bataan Memorial Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 748 Tulane Drive Northeast in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States. The park features a .33 mile trail with a difficulty grade of 2, consisting of 700 steps on a 4-6 foot wide concrete and packed gravel surface. Visitors can enjoy picnic tables, large shade trees, and plenty of activity with good visibility throughout the park. In case of emergencies, visitors can call 911 or for non-emergency police calls, dial 505-242-COPS. For more information, visitors can contact 311 or 505-768-2000, report online, or email 311 at [email protected] Please note that the City of Albuquerque is not responsible for the content of external sites linked on the park's website.

The El Morro National Monument Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for your visit to this historic site. Located in Ramah, New Mexico, this travel agency offers information, maps, and guidance from knowledgeable park rangers and volunteers. The center features exhibits that showcase over 700 years of human history in the El Morro area, as well as a 15-minute video that provides an overview of the cultural and natural history of the monument. The visitor center itself is a piece of history, completed in 1964 as part of the Mission 66 initiative to revitalize national parks across the country. Start your journey at the El Morro National Monument Visitor Center and immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of this iconic landmark.

White Sands National Park, located in New Mexico, United States, is a stunning natural wonder with vast wave-like dunes of gypsum sand covering 275 square miles of desert. This park preserves a unique dunefield along with the plants and animals that call it home. Visitors can participate in ranger-led programs, learn about the park's history, and explore trackways that offer insight into ice age animals and ancient civilizations. Safety tips, road closure updates, and information on accessibility are also provided to ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit. Whether you're interested in becoming a Junior Ranger or simply exploring the breathtaking landscape, White Sands National Park offers something for everyone.

Pecos National Historical Park is a captivating destination located in Pecos, New Mexico, United States. This park serves as a natural and cultural crossroads, where various groups of people such as hunters, traders, missionaries, soldiers, and immigrants have passed through and left their mark over the centuries. Visitors can explore the park and envision the rich history of Pecos through interactive cultural demonstrations and traditional practices that are still carried out today. The park is situated in a mountain pass that has been a safe route through the Sangre de Cristo mountains for thousands of years. As you wander through the park, you can immerse yourself in the stories of those who have traversed this land before you. Pecos National Historical Park is truly a place where the past comes alive in the present.

El Morro National Monument, located in Ramah, New Mexico, is a popular tourist attraction and travel destination. The site, known as "the headland," has served as a reliable waterhole for travelers for centuries, with over 2,000 signatures, dates, messages, and petroglyphs carved into the sandstone bluff by ancestral Puebloans, Spanish conquistadors, and American settlers. Visitors can explore the rich history of the area and learn about the different cultures that have left their mark on El Morro. The park offers educational field trip opportunities and a free campground with nine sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Make El Morro National Monument a must-see stop on your travel itinerary.

The Chaco Culture National Historical Park Visitor Center is a travel agency located at 1808 County Road 7950 in Nageezi, New Mexico, United States. This institution offers guided tours, hiking and biking trails, evening campfire talks, night sky programs, and more, allowing visitors to explore the monumental structures and breathtaking landscape of Chaco Canyon. The park was a thriving regional center for the ancestral Pueblo people from 850 to 1250 CE. It is a sacred and deeply personal place for many Indigenous peoples throughout the Southwest, so visitors are asked to explore with respect. To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to plan ahead by familiarizing yourself with park entrance fees, purchasing America the Beautiful passes online, and checking directions and road conditions before starting your journey. Reservations for camping at Chaco's Gallo campground, which accommodates tents, trailers, and RVs, should be made in advance. Additionally, visitors can make a difference in their national parks by volunteering. Explore the rich history and natural beauty of Chaco Culture National Historical Park by visiting the Visitor Center and taking advantage of all it has to offer.

Sandia Peak Tramway is a must-visit tourist attraction located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This iconic park offers visitors a unique experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as they ride the tramway up to the summit of Sandia Peak. The tramway is one of the longest aerial tramways in the world, providing visitors with an unforgettable journey through the stunning Sandia Mountains. At the top, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, dining options, and even winter sports during the snowy season. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a memorable experience, Sandia Peak Tramway is the perfect destination for you.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park, located in New Mexico, United States, is a must-visit tourist attraction for those interested in exploring the monumental structures and breathtaking landscape of the ancestral Pueblo people. From guided tours to hiking and biking trails, evening campfire talks, and night sky programs, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Chaco. This sacred and deeply personal place for Indigenous peoples offers a unique opportunity to connect with history and nature. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead by familiarizing themselves with park entrance fees, purchasing America the Beautiful passes online, and making reservations for camping at Chaco's Gallo campground. Those looking to make a difference can also volunteer at the park. Come and experience the rich history and natural beauty of Chaco Culture National Historical Park with respect and admiration.

The Gila Visitor Center, located in the Gila National Forest in Silver City, New Mexico, offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient cliff dwellings once inhabited by the Mogollon people. Visitors can learn about the history of the area, take guided tours of the dwellings, and hike in the beautiful wilderness surrounding the site. The center also offers educational programs for both children and adults, including the opportunity to earn Junior and Senior Ranger badges. With stunning scenery and a rich cultural heritage, the Gila Visitor Center is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a truly immersive experience in the American Southwest.

Bachechi Open Space is a beautiful park located at 9521 Rio Grande Boulevard Northwest in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This expansive outdoor area offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and open fields perfect for recreational activities. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply relax in nature, Bachechi Open Space provides a serene setting for all to enjoy.

The Alameda / Rio Grande Open Space is a park located on Rio Grande Boulevard Northwest in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States. The Open Space Visitor Center at this institution features exhibits that interpret the natural and cultural resources protected by the Open Space Division. Visitors can learn about the rich history and diverse ecosystems of the area. For more information, visitors can contact 311 or 505-768-2000, report online, or email 311 at [email protected] In case of emergencies, visitors should call 911, and for non-emergency police calls, they can reach 505-242-COPS. Please note that the City of Albuquerque assumes no responsibility for the content of external sites linked to this institution. The opinions, standards, and policies of these sites do not necessarily reflect those of the City of Albuquerque or its officials.

Pajarito Open Space is a beautiful park located at 6001 Beck Road Southwest in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This peaceful and serene natural space offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. With scenic trails, picnic areas, and stunning views, Pajarito Open Space is the perfect place for hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun day out with family and friends, Pajarito Open Space has something for everyone. Come visit and experience the beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of Albuquerque.

Ute Lake South Entrance is a charming campground, lodging, and park located at 1800 Loop 540 in Logan, New Mexico, United States. Nestled near the picturesque Ute Lake, this institution offers a peaceful and serene setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. With a variety of accommodations available, including cabins, RV sites, and tent camping areas, guests can choose the perfect option for their stay. The park also features hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Ute Lake South Entrance is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Ned Houk Memorial Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 700 Cr 17 in Clovis, New Mexico, United States. This park is part of the City of Clovis Parks and Recreation Department, which aims to provide well-maintained parks and recreational areas for residents to lead healthy and active lifestyles. With over 17 parks and recreational areas spanning 3,700 acres, Ned Houk Memorial Park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. Within the 370-developed acres of Ned Houk Memorial Park, visitors can find basketball and volleyball courts, ball fields, an archery range, motor sports race track, ATV and horse trails, disc golf course, and a model airplane flying area. The park also features three lakes, one of which is stocked with fish for recreational fishing. Additionally, there are picnic areas, playground equipment, restroom facilities, and covered pavilions available for rent. The park is also home to the Old Homestead Museum and Pappy Thornton Farm Museum, which can be visited by appointment.

Grulla National Wildlife Refuge, located in Portales, New Mexico, is a stunning park dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. Spanning over 3,000 acres, the refuge provides a peaceful sanctuary for a wide variety of bird species, including the majestic sandhill crane. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The refuge also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, protecting the diverse ecosystem and providing a home for endangered species. Whether you're a nature lover, bird enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Grulla National Wildlife Refuge offers a unique and unforgettable experience.