10k Trail

The 10k Trail offers families an achievable mountain adventure through beautiful Sandia Mountain forest terrain. This moderate 5-mile loop features educational interpretive signs that turn the hike into a learning experience, while the well-maintained path makes it manageable for older elementary-aged children ready for their first real mountain hike. Wildlife spotting opportunities and stunning forest scenery keep kids engaged throughout the journey.

• ✓Educational interpretive signs teaching about local ecology and forest management
• ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including deer, birds, and small mammals
• ✓Beautiful mountain forest scenery with ponderosa pines and mixed conifers
• ✓Sense of accomplishment for kids completing their first longer mountain hike
• ✓Relatively accessible terrain without extreme scrambling or dangerous dropoffs

1. 1.Start early in the morning (7-8am) to avoid afternoon thunderstorms in summer and to spot more wildlife when animals are most active
2. 2.Pack plenty of water and snacks - bring at least 1 liter per person as there are no water sources on the trail
3. 3.Download an offline map before you go as cell service can be spotty in the Sandia Mountains
4. 4.Turn the interpretive signs into a scavenger hunt by having kids take photos at each station and quiz each other on what they learned
5. 5.Bring binoculars for wildlife watching - kids often spot deer, squirrels, and various bird species along the route

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery with wildflowers or changing aspens. Weekday mornings are least crowded, while summer weekends can be busy. Avoid midday summer visits due to heat and afternoon thunderstorms.

This trail is located in Cibola National Forest and requires no entrance fee, with parking available at the trailhead. Facilities are limited to vault toilets at the trailhead with no food service available, so pack a trail lunch and come prepared with water, sun protection, and layers for changing mountain weather.

Trail is typically accessible year-round but may have snow and ice November through March requiring traction devices. Spring offers wildflowers and mild temperatures. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms (plan to finish by early afternoon). Fall features beautiful foliage but can be windy. Winter hiking is possible but requires experience with snow conditions.

Head to nearby Cedar Crest for post-hike meals at Mama Lisa's Ghost Town Kitchen (comfort food and burgers in a quirky setting) or grab ice cream at the Cedar Crest General Store just a few miles from the trailhead.