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Paseo del Norte Trail Access

FreeAdventure
🕑 1-2 hours for younger children, 2-3 hours for older kids ready for longer rides👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers can enjoy stroller rides or tricycle outings on the smooth pavement, while older kids ages 6-14 will love the freedom to bike or rollerblade independently. The flat, predictable terrain makes it perfect for beginners learning to ride bikes or skate.

About

The Paseo del Norte Trail Access in Paradise Hills offers families a safe, paved multi-use trail that's perfect for introducing kids to outdoor adventure. With breathtaking Sandia Mountain views as your backdrop, this well-maintained pathway provides an ideal setting for family bike rides, leisurely strolls with younger children, or letting older kids practice their rollerblading skills without worrying about traffic.

Highlights

  • Smooth, wide paved surface perfect for training wheels, bikes, scooters, and rollerblades
  • Panoramic views of the Sandia Mountains throughout the ride
  • Safe, car-free environment for kids to practice cycling skills
  • Connects to the larger Paseo del Norte Trail system for families wanting to extend their adventure
  • Wildlife spotting opportunities including desert birds and occasional rabbits

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit early morning (7-9am) for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, plus the morning light on the Sandia Mountains is spectacular for photos
  2. 2.Bring plenty of water and sunscreen - shade is limited along most sections of the trail, and New Mexico sun is intense year-round
  3. 3.Pack a small first-aid kit with bandages - great for minor scrapes as kids master new biking or skating skills
  4. 4.Look for the trail markers to plan your distance - perfect for setting achievable goals with kids and celebrating their accomplishments
  5. 5.The wide paved path allows families to ride side-by-side, making it easier to keep an eye on younger children while they ride

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most comfortable temperatures for extended outdoor activity. Visit on weekday mornings to avoid weekend cyclists and joggers, or enjoy sunset rides in the cooler evening hours when the mountains glow beautifully.

What to Know

The trail is free to access with ample parking available at the trailhead. There are no food vendors or restrooms immediately at this access point, so plan accordingly and bring your own supplies and ensure bathroom breaks before arriving.

Seasonal Notes

Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot - limit visits to early morning or evening hours and bring extra water. Trail is accessible year-round, though winter mornings can be chilly. Spring wildflowers along the trail edges add extra beauty in April and May.

Nearby Eats

Stop by Dion's Pizza on Coors Blvd (about 5 minutes away) for family-friendly New Mexico-style pizza after your ride, or grab breakfast burritos at Twisters on Paradise Blvd to fuel up before hitting the trail.

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