Spring | Sandoval Tourism

Mark your Calendars and Plan to Celebrate Mom in Style

SandovalTourism — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 22:53:20 +0000

This year, opt for something special to celebrate your mom, grandma, or other special mother figure in your life. Running May 11–12, over Mother’s Day Weekend, The Placitas Studio Tour is a must-attend event. The highly anticipated annual art tour allows visitors the chance to view artists’ studios, learn about their process, and of course, purchase one-of-a-kind art pieces.

The Placitas Studio Tour is celebrating its 27^th annual tour and will feature a diverse range of fine arts and crafts created by local artists. Browse jewelry, fine art, crafts and art pieces in mediums ranging from wood to painting, sculpture, fiber, ceramics, woodworking, glass and mosaics, and more. The tour will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

With so much to see and so many artists to meet, it will be a weekend mom will remember for years to come! Best of all, you can bring home a special, meaningful piece of art for her to treasure.

For a full list of artists, to view their work, and to plan your visit, go to https://placitasstudiotour.com/index.html.

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Grab the Family and Head out to Park ‘n the Park, Saturday, April 26!

SandovalTourism — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 22:52:31 +0000

The City of Rio Rancho’s Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department is proud to present the Park ‘n the Park Car Show taking place on Saturday, April 26 from 10 AM to 4 PM at Campus Park. Take a stroll of over 300 cars–a beautiful collection of all makes and models from 1989 and older. There will be music by Steve’s Cruisin’ with the Oldies and local food trucks. For questions regarding vehicle registration please call 505-892-4499. The last day to register to enter a car is April 1, 2025.

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Explore the Great Outdoors on the Continental Divide Trail

SandovalTourism — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 16:52:48 +0000

As we look ahead to spring and warmer weather, it’s the perfect time to start planning your hikes. For an unforgettable, scenic hike, consider the Continental Divide Trail in Cuba, New Mexico. One of the largest national conservation efforts, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail was established by Congress in 1978 and spans 3,100 miles across five states.

In addition to conservation of natural areas and incredible scenery, the trail offers a variety of experiences, depending on your hiking skill level and endurance.

Consider one of these trails for your visit:

Mesa Portales Trail

Featuring a moderate to difficult trek, the 7-mile trail near Cuba offers a challenging and exciting adventure for experienced hikers.

CDT South

Approximately four miles from Cuba, the narrow footpath features a 6.2-mile roundtrip hike with a beautiful mid-point of from the sandstone saddle of Mesa Portales.

Along the hike, capture views of badlands, cliffs, mountains, and mesas.

CDT North

A difficult trail, featuring a significant climb of nearly 2,000 feet, the 6.2-mile roundtrip trail takes between 3 to 6 hours to complete, depending on skill level and conditions.

Here, you’ll enjoy the sights of Los Piños Creek, wilderness trails, lush vegetation, and a climb to the top of the San Pedro Parks Wilderness. For a burst of spring beauty, consider visiting from May through September, when wildflowers are in bloom.

Remember to always pack water, snacks, and sunscreen when hiking in New Mexico. Additionally, please be sure to pack out what you pack in and leave nothing but footprints. For more information and to plan your hike, visit https://continentaldividetrail.org/communities/cuba/.

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Discover the History of Sandoval County

SandovalTourism — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 22:03:56 +0000

New Mexico is steeped in rich history and deep cultural ties that carry on to this day. By visiting Sandoval County, you can dive in headfirst to discover the past. Whether you’re a history buff or an immersive traveler, you’ll find a variety of opportunities to explore ancient sites, caves, national parks, and more.

To get the most out of your visit, consider adding these stops:

Explore history at Casa San Ysidro

You won’t want to miss this historic house that was built around 1875. The house’s architecture is as much a sight to behold as is the art housed in its collections. Explore artifacts, furniture, religious art, tools, weavings, pottery, and much more—all dating back to the 17^th,18^th, and 19^th centuries.

Jemez National Historic Landmark

One of the most stunning sites in the region, the Jemez National Historical Landmark features the stone remnants of a 700-year-old village and church.

Bandelier National Monument

A popular choice among visitors, Bandelier National Monument offers hiking and biking trails as well as provides the opportunity to climb ladders and explore the homes of ancient Puebloan cliff dwellers.

Cabezon Peak

One of the most prominent volcanic necks in the lava fields of Mount Taylor, Cabezon Peak is a sight to behold. Tied to religious significance for the Pueblo and Navajo people, Cabezon Peak is a must-see!

Sandia Man Cave

For those seeking an experiential visit, Sandia Man Cave offers an up-close view of life as a cliff dweller.

Gilman Tunnels

Part of the former Santa Fe Northwestern Railway, the tunnels were once used to transport lumber from the mountains. Today, the trails and tunnels offer some of the most beautiful backdrops for photos and sightseeing.

Photo Credit: Erica Asmus Otero

Fenton Lake State Park

The Jemez Mountains provide the backdrop for this stunning year-round retreat surrounded by beautiful ponderosa pine forests. Fenton Lake State Park is a mellow mountain escape for all-year fun for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.

For additional historic landmarks and sites and to plan your visit: https://seesandoval.org/historical-sites-landmarks.

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Pick Your Adventure—Explore Three Easy Day Trips within Sandoval County

SandovalTourism — Tue, 30 May 2023 14:25:25 +0000

There’s nothing quite like the classic summer road trip to create lasting family memories. With car games, sing-a-longs, fun snacks along the way, and opportunities to see unique sights throughout the drive, families can bond and enjoy quality time together. This summer, consider a road trip to Sandoval County, New Mexico, where you can not only have the excitement of the journey, but also enjoy an affordable destination with a wide variety of attractions.

In Sandoval County, you can enjoy several incredible and distinctive destinations—all within easy driving distance.

Best of all, there’s something for every member of the family—no matter how diverse your interests.

For nature lovers, spend the day at Jemez Springs. In addition to beautiful landscapes that create the perfect backdrop for family vacation photos, Jemez Springs offers healing natural hot springs, as well as ancient ruins and hiking trails. Stop by the Jemez Bath House to unwind and rejuvenate.

For artists and art lovers, take a day trip to Corrales. Experience the eclectic village and stroll down Mainstreet to view galleries, boutiques, wineries, breweries, and delectable restaurants.

For National Park enthusiasts, no visit to Sandoval County is complete without a day at Valles Caldera National Preserve. One of the nation’s newest National Parks and a recently designated International Dark Sky Park, Valles Caldera is home to the second largest elk population in the state, as well as a host of other wildlife. Additionally, the site is one of only six super volcanoes in the world. A popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and outdoor adventure, the Valles Caldera is a must-see!

For those staying longer, visit all the unique communities throughout the County for an immersion into New Mexico art, culture, cuisine, and recreation.

Plan your Sandoval County road trip here.

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Placitas Hiking Trails

SandovalTourism — Tue, 16 May 2023 14:08:07 +0000

Hiking in Placitas is an excellent way to get out and enjoy New Mexico’s beautiful scenery. The area is home to a large trail system that’s perfect for biking or hiking with friends and family. The trails are well-marked and offer great views of the Sandia Mountains. The area is also known for its free-roaming wild horses. They can be a fun addition to your hike but they can also be dangerous so it’s important to watch them closely and be aware of your surroundings.

The Las Placitas Association manages a 560-acre parcel of City of Albuquerque Open Space with gentle trails, wildflowers, and birds. The trails are easy to access off NM 165, about 2.5 miles east of I-25. Placitas is the ideal destination for hiking, as there are many popular trails with fantastic views, an abundance of wildlife, and endless wildflowers to observe. While you may have heard of some of these great trails, there are also a few hidden gems.

Placitas Strip Mine Trail

Hiking in Placitas is a real treat for any outdoor enthusiast, whether you’re in search of the perfect view or are looking for a challenge. One of the most popular trails in the area is the Strip Mine trail, which is named for its proximity to the historic mining district. This 3.5-mile loop offers some of the best views in the region and offers great camping, and horseback riding, as well as hiking. The hike is also well-marked and has plenty of parking. It’s also a great way to see some of the area’s wild horses in action. This hike is a must on any seasoned hiker’s list of things to do in the Albuquerque area.

Piedra Lisa Trail

If you’re a hiker looking for a trail that offers great views in addition to a great workout, Piedra Lisa Trail is the right choice for you. It’s a well-traveled trail that is popular among hikers and horseback riders. It is also known for its great wildlife and wildflowers. It is a black diamond singletrack and can be used in both directions, making it ideal for hikers who are looking for a roundtrip hike. This hiking trail is a must-try in Placitas, New Mexico!

Located in the northeastern part of Albuquerque, the Piedra Lisa Trail is a popular option for local hikers, and is recommended for anyone looking for an adventure. Piedra Lisa Trail is a beautiful trail filled with spectacular views that will take you into the heart of the Sandia Mountains. This trail travels around the base of the Sandia Peak where you can enjoy great views of both the mountain and the city below.

Osha Spring Trail

One of the most popular and challenging scenic trails in the Cibola National Forest is the Osha Spring Trail. The hike is also home to some of the best birdwatching in the state of New Mexico. There are many other notable attractions along the way, including the aforementioned Osha Springs and the nearby Dry Camp Picnic area, the latter of which is one of the most photographed picnic spots in the country.

Mustang Alley Trail

The Mustang Alley Trail is a beautiful and popular hiking trail located in Placitas, New Mexico. This trail has a lot to offer, including great views, wildlife, and wildflowers throughout the year. This is also a popular trail for horseback riding. You can even find a place to camp if you’re interested in spending the night on the trail. The Mustang Alley Trail is a wonderful option for new hikers or those looking to enjoy a casual stroll through beautiful New Mexican scenery, as well as for experienced hikers who are looking for a way to relax and enjoy all that Placitas has to offer.

Enjoy a Hike in Placitas, New Mexico

Whether you’re in search of a challenging trail to satisfy your inner adventurer or are looking for a family-friendly hike filled with beautiful New Mexican scenery—Placitas has a variety of beautiful hiking destinations ready to be explored! Find the right trail for both your experience level and your preferences and plan your hike in and around Placitas, New Mexico! Enjoy unforgettable views, an abundance of wildlife and flowers, and the Sandia Mountains, and plan your next hiking destination today!

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Embark on the Placitas Studio Tour

SandovalTourism — Tue, 09 May 2023 20:08:08 +0000

Calling all art lovers: you won’t want to miss the 26^th annual Placitas Studio Tour running May 13–14! A unique and charming village of art and outdoor enthusiasts, Placitas is bursting with arts and culture, and during the tour, you’ll have the chance to meet, visit with, and learn from local artists.

Featuring only artists who live in or have a full-time studio in Placitas, the tour is one of the most highly anticipated studio tours across the state of New Mexico. Attendees will experience behind-the-scenes visits in-studio with local artists and view creations in all mediums.

While in town, those looking to enjoy the beautiful spring weather in New Mexico can embark on one of several area trails with stunning views. Perfect for hiking or biking, the trails in and around Placitas offer varying terrain and difficulty levels ranging from easy to difficult.

Whether you’re planning a family Mother’s Day celebration or embarking on a solo weekend getaway, plan to be in Placitas May 13–14 for an unforgettable experience!

Preview participating artists here, and start planning your visit.

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Shake off Those Winter Blues: Top Five Spring Activities in Sandoval County

SandovalTourism — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 16:22:14 +0000

As the days get longer, the flowers bloom, and the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and leave cabin fever behind in Sandoval County.

Whether you’re on a spring getaway, a long weekend, or just an afternoon out of the office, Sandoval County’s unmatched terrain, outdoor recreation, and special events are sure to get you in a sunny springtime mood.

To make the most of your visit, check out these top five spring experiences in Sandoval County:

Go for a Scenic Drive – As we welcome spring and a new season of growth, our natural landscapes are second to none. In fact, of the 55 National Scenic Byways, eight of them are in New Mexico! From ancient architecture to towering mountains, deep canyons, and scenic desert landscapes, you’ll find plenty of awe-inspiring, photo-worthy sites along these trails. Drive through history and explore the art, culture, and heritage of Sandoval County by taking Route 66, El Camino Real, the Turquoise Trail, Corrales Road, or the Jemez Mountain Trail.

Explore a Super Volcano – A national treasure and a global rarity, Valles Caldera National Preserve is one of only six super volcanoes in the entire world! The 13-mile-wide depression created by a volcanic eruption over 1.25 million years ago now serves as an adventurer’s playground. Here you can observe the vast variety of local wildlife, including the second largest elk population in New Mexico, coyotes, badgers, black bears, birds, and prairie dogs. In addition to wildlife, Valles Caldera offers hiking, biking, camping, fly fishing, and exceptional night sky viewing as an International Dark Sky Park.

Mountain Biking – With warmer weather, spring is an ideal time to hit the trail and experience the high altitude of northern New Mexico. Explore over 187 bike trails with varying terrains and levels of difficulty, including undiscovered badland country and trails with unparalleled scenic views. With trails near the Jemez Mountains, San Ysidro, Rio Rancho, Placitas, Cuba, and Corrales, pick your destination and then build out the rest of the day’s activities in surrounding communities.

Rock Climbing – Indulge your wild side this spring and climb the walls—literally. With over 47 classic climbs, the Upper East Fork in the Jemez Mountains is a great place for climbers to visit. Throughout Sandoval County, you’ll find over 797 rock faces suited for climbers of every background, skill level, and discipline.

Annual Park ‘N the Park – Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 22 and join the fun of the annual Park ‘N the Park Car Show. With events and activities for all ages, the special event takes over Cabezon Park in Rio Rancho. View over 300 classic cars—all made before 1982—as well as vendors, opportunities to browse local arts and crafts, delicious local food, live music, and fun jumps for kids.

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Corrales Bosque Preserve

SandovalTourism — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 19:56:25 +0000

The Corrales Bosque Preserve is a beautiful nature preserve with a trail that runs for 12.4 miles and is surrounded by a natural cottonwood forest that houses various riparian habitats. This engaging trail follows the Rio Grande and begins and ends in Corrales, making it the perfect trail for people traveling to or living in the Village of Corrales. The Corrales Bosque Preserve is a declared protected area, and thus when planning your trip, be sure to respect the land and avoid littering and walking off-trail. See Sandoval encourages enjoying this beautiful nature preserve to the fullest for all hikers, walkers, bicyclists, and families!

History of Corrales Bosque Preserve

In 1978, the Corrales Bosque Preserve was officially protected and maintained by the Village of Corrales. The nature preserve is home to avian migratory birds and other birds that make the preserve their habitat. There are many species of birds you may encounter on your trip along the Corrales Bosque Preserve trail, several of which are endangered, such as the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher and the Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo. These birds are not only important for Southwest avian communities, but are also vital to the overall environment within the Corrales Bosque Preserve.

Visiting the Corrales Bosque Preserve

When you plan your visit to the Corrales Bosque Preserve, it’s important to pack all necessary equipment, including water and food. The trail, while beautiful, doesn’t offer amenities like bathrooms, outhouses, or drinking facilities. Being properly prepared for your trip is the first step to planning your hike, walk, or bike along the trail. We recommend packing additional water for the trail, as well as a lunch or snack that can be eaten along the way. We also recommend checking the weather forecast in advance and planning proper hiking, walking, biking, and family attire and activities accordingly. The trail can be hot during the spring, summer, and early fall, and can be cooler, windy, and even rainy during the same seasons.

The Corrales Bosque Preserve has two trailheads that are accessible to hikers, walkers, families, and bicyclists, and they may enter on either side. Parking is available for all trail enjoyers east of Romero Road in North Corrales. Once you’re parked and have your gear ready, the pathway begins after walking across the bridge over the ditch—the trail will follow the Rio Grande along the way. If you’re entering the trail by Meowlark to Andrews Lane, you will turn right and park at the gate at the end of the road. Walk over the ditch to access the trail and begin your adventure along the Rio Grande.
While enjoying the Corrales Bosque Preserve, be sure to adhere to right-of-way signage along the way, as this will direct you if you come across other hikers, bikers, walkers, or families enjoying the trail. Fishing is also allowed along the trail, but be sure you have your New Mexico Fishing License before you begin your trip! There are many great adventures to enjoy while on the Corrales Bosque Preserve trail, including a family day, training for a marathon or bicycle event, immersion in nature, health benefits, and more! New Mexico’s high altitude is ideal for training and exercising!

Post-Hike Food, Drink, and Relaxation

After your hike, you can look forward to a delicious meal and irresistible drinks at Ex Novo Brewery, or for early walkers, hikers, bikers, and families, you can enjoy a tasty brunch at Hannah & Nate’s. Look forward to relaxation, food, and drinks following the beauty of the Corrales Bosque Preserve trail. You and your family will love all the food options available, and you’ll be supporting local New Mexico restaurants! Ex Novo Brewery and Hannah & Nate’s are also dog-friendly, so you can enjoy food with your loyal furry companion by your side!

Plan Your Visit to Corrales Bosque Preserve

We are thrilled to have the opportunity to shed light on Corrales’ local trails which are ready to be enjoyed by everyone! Whether you’re in search of a beautiful hike, walk, bike, or family trip filled with local history, avian communities, and gorgeous scenery, you’ll be delighted to enjoy the 12.4-mile hike into the heart of Corrales. Plan your trip to the Corrales Bosque Preserve today!

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