Sandia Crest Road is about 23 miles northeast of downtown Albuquerque in central New Mexico. It begins at the intersection of NM 14 and NM 536. The byway heads west across Cibola National Forest and ends near the summit of Sandia Peak. Sandia Crest Road follows NM 536 for 11 miles. The highway is a two-lane paved road suitable for all vehicles; there are some sharp curves. Travelers will need to retrace the route back to NM 165 or NM 14. The highway is usually passable year-round. Winter driving conditions can be hazardous, especially in higher elevations. Chains or snow tires are sometimes required.

Sandia Crest Road climbs nearly 4,000 feet as it travels through the high desert and dense forests of the Sandia Mountains. The byway switchbacks up the mountain to 10,678-foot Sandia Crest where observation platforms provide spectacular panoramic views. Come nightfall, visitors are treated to a beautiful display of Albuquerque's twinkling city lights.

The Sandia Mountains are home to a variety of wildlife. Careful observers may see mule deer, golden eagles, or bighorn sheep. Mountain lions, bobcats, and black bear also inhabit the area but are rarely seen.

Trailheads along the byway provide access to the Sandia Mountain Wilderness. This 37,232-acre mountain wilderness offers excellent opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding. Crest Trail is a 28-mile hiking trail following the mountain ridgeline from Tijeras Canyon to Placitas.

Many picnic areas along the byway provide a good spot for relaxing a bit and enjoying a lunch or early dinner. No public campgrounds have been developed along the byway, nor is car camping permitted. The nearest public campground is found in Coronado State Park, approximately 20 miles west of the byway. It has 25 campsites, many with electric hookups. Facilities also include showers, drinking water, picnic areas, and a dump station.

Information: Cibola National Forest, 2113 Osuna Rd NE Suite A, Albuquerque NM 87113 / 505-346-2650