


Paako Ridge Golf Club
About
Paako Ridge Golf Club offers a wonderful introduction to golf for families in a stunning mountain setting. With dedicated junior programs and family-friendly policies, this scenic course welcomes young golfers while providing breathtaking views of the Sandia Mountains that make even practice time feel like an adventure.
Highlights
- ✓Junior golf programs designed specifically for young players
- ✓Spectacular Sandia Mountain views from throughout the course
- ✓Family-friendly policies that welcome young golfers
- ✓Practice facilities perfect for beginners
- ✓High-rated course with professional instruction available
Pro Tips
- 1.Call ahead to inquire about junior clinics and family tee times, especially during peak weekend hours when the course can get busy with regular players
- 2.Start with the practice facilities or putting green to gauge your child's interest level before committing to a full round
- 3.Visit on weekday mornings (Wednesday or Thursday) when it's less crowded and staff have more time to assist young players
- 4.Bring sun protection and layers - the elevation at 7,000+ feet means cooler temperatures and intense sun exposure
- 5.Ask about junior club rentals if your child is just starting out, so you don't need to invest in equipment right away
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Wednesday or Thursday) from 7:30-10:00 AM offer the calmest conditions and fewer crowds, making it easier for kids to learn. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable temperatures at this elevation, avoiding summer afternoon heat and winter closures.
What to Know
The course is closed Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. Located about 25 minutes east of Albuquerque at higher elevation, weather can be cooler than expected. Contact the pro shop for current junior program pricing and family rates.
Seasonal Notes
Best visited spring through fall (April-October). Winter months may see limited hours or closures due to snow and cold temperatures at the 7,000-foot elevation. Summer mornings are ideal to beat afternoon heat.
Nearby Eats
Head to nearby Edgewood for kid-friendly options like Java Junction Cafe for casual breakfast and lunch, or stop at local convenience stores along Highway 14 for snacks and drinks before or after your round.
More Activities Near Edgewood
Edgewood Skate Park
Edgewood Skate Park offers an exciting free outdoor space where kids can practice skateboarding, scootering, and BMX biking on well-designed ramps and features. With its impressive 4.6-star rating and welcoming atmosphere, it's become a go-to spot for active families looking to let their kids burn energy and develop new skills in a supportive environment.
Mountain View Place
Mountain View Place is a welcoming neighborhood park in Edgewood that delivers exactly what its name promises,stunning views of the Sandia and Manzano mountain ranges. This low-key gem offers families a peaceful escape with playground equipment for active play, walking paths for stroller-friendly exploring, and wide open spaces where kids can run freely while parents soak in the scenery.
Edgewood Community Library
Edgewood Community Library is a welcoming neighborhood gem that goes beyond books, offering engaging storytimes, hands-on reading activities, and educational programs designed specifically for children. With an impressive 4.9-star rating from local families, this library has become a beloved destination for parents seeking enriching, screen-free activities that spark curiosity and foster a love of reading in their little ones.
Cibola National Forest
Cibola National Forest near Edgewood offers families an accessible mountain escape with over 1.6 million acres of diverse terrain to explore. With its proximity to Albuquerque and well-maintained trails suitable for various skill levels, this national forest provides the perfect setting for introducing kids to hiking, wildlife spotting, and outdoor adventure in New Mexico's stunning high desert mountain ecosystem.