Dig In Details

The Albuquerque Mountain Bike Association is launching Phase 1 of their trails project, building shared-use trails for mountain biking, hiking, nordic skiing, and other users on the Eastern side of the Sandia Mountains. Increased volume and frequency of users on New Mexico’s rich public lands has caused a backlog in trail development and maintenance projects. AMBA is seeking funding for tools and supplies to support these trail projects in partnership with federal and state agencies.

AMBA volunteers will initially participate in the reroute and extension of the Challenge Trail, which runs along the full length of the Sandia Mountains. Work will focus on sections below the Sandia Ski Resort, allowing trail users a more manageable ascent and descent of the mountain on intermediate trails, as opposed to the existing technical, rock-filled alternative. Extending this trail will increase trail user safety by reducing blind corners, making the trail easier to ride (with fewer hike-a-bike sections), and providing an optional route to climbing the single mountain road, which connects various access points throughout the trail system.

This Phase 1 project will also train volunteers, acquire necessary trail building and safety equipment, and build momentum for future trails projects in other parts of the central New Mexico area. AMBA and partners plan to provide trails for all ability levels, including areas appropriate for new rider development, and improve geographic accessibility to a highly diverse population. Appropriate signage and progressive ride-arounds will be added. Further planning, design, and development of trails in the Red Mesa and White Mesa areas, along with the Mariposa area (near Bernalillo, NM) will make up Phase 2. AMBA is just getting started!