Sandia Crest

Sandia Crest is 16 mi. e. of Albuquerque on I-40, 6 mi. n. on SR 14, then 14 mi. n.w. on the Sandia Crest National Scenic Byway (SR 536) to 1 SR 536. At the observation deck atop the 10,678-foot crest, the panorama encompasses 15,000 square miles. A self-guiding nature trail begins here and loops for a half-mile. The byway is a 14-mile spur of the Turquoise Trail, a scenic stretch of SR 14 that links Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Volcanic formations, mountains, desert landscapes and the Rio Grande are visible.

Snowboarding and downhill and cross-country skiing are available in winter; hiking and mountain biking are popular in summer. Equipment can be rented in both seasons.

Food is available at the top of the crest.