Albuquerque: North Crest-Survey Trail Loop
Ride the Sandia Crest on this 5.8-mile loop that connects a scenic ridgetop, fragrant evergreens, and postcard views above Albuquerque.
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
Mapped by Bill Velasquez
Trail Facts
- Distance: 9.4
Waypoints
NCS001
Location: 35.211368560791, -106.44930267334
Pick up North Crest Trail (#130) @ N end of lot, then descend beneath a canopy of fir and pine
NCS002
Location: 35.2166709899902, -106.450698852539
Trail enters Sandia Mountain Wilderness, then traces fence line past a cluster of radio towers
NCS003
Location: 35.2183494567871, -106.451499938965
Cross meadow, passing strenuous Chimney Canyon Trail. Steady descent ahead on worn trail cut through grassy banks; steep drop-offs on L and gentle slopes on R
NCS004
Location: 35.2259712219238, -106.452087402344
Pass unnamed 10,458-ft. summit on L, then continue N along crest
NCS005
Location: 35.2331657409668, -106.451736450195
Traverse E slopes of N. Sandia Pk.
NCS006
Location: 35.2376403808594, -106.449699401855
Keep straight @ 3-way with 10K Trail. In 150 ft., overlook reveals the rugged face of N. Sandia Pk. rising behind forested slopes
NCS007
Location: 35.2401390075684, -106.450698852539
Rest legs and soak up views of expansive Albuquerque valley on rock bench. In 400 ft., descend lush slopes on Osha Trail
NCS008
Location: 35.2422904968262, -106.450302124023
Turn R (SE) @ 3-way onto Survey Trail; blue diamond x-country ski markers mark the route uphill
NCS009
Location: 35.2360191345215, -106.449096679688
Stay straight on Survey Trail @ 4-way with 10K Trail
NCS010
Location: 35.217700958252, -106.447898864746
Continue S traverse on flat, shaded trail
NCS011
Location: 35.2120094299316, -106.446098327637
Emerge from thick forest onto NM 536. Turn R (NW) and follow road .9 mi. back to lower lot