The Elena Gallegos Park is part of the Open Space System. The parks elevation of around 6,500, make it possible for views of Mt. Taylor (West), the Jemez Mountains to the North, and the Tijeras Arroy to the South... Moreover, the Sandia Mountians, tower to the East at over 10,000 feet in Elevation. The landscape and ecology include the pinon Juniper, Chamisa, Apache Plume, Scrub Oak, Cane Cholla Catus, Blue Grama Grass, Bear Grass, and the Soapweed Yucca. The hours are as follow: Winter (November through March), 7:00 AM-7 ;00 PMand the Summer Hours are (April through October), 7:00 AM 9:00 PMThe fee for parking Monday-Friday is $1.00 per vehicle, and Saturday and Sundaythe fee for parking is $2.00 per vehicle. The park is beautiful, full of breath taking views, and it is quiet and serene. The park has coyote, bears, and sometimes, cougars, be aware of your surroundings.Bring, water, food, and your CAMERA. Kiwanis Reservation Area and Double Shelter Reservation Area offer large picnic areas see the website for info/ rates for Reserving. Each of the two areas have grills, volleyball net, horseshoe pit, running water, electricity and restrooms. Carolino Canyon Reservation Area.40 acres, Upper Picnic, shelter with fireplace, tree shaded tables, grills, restrooms, electricity, and Water (I was at this area), the Lower Picnic Area is similar, but not as nice as we past it. The playing field, Volleyball, tetherball, and horsehoes are first come first serve. Trip with my Mother, to New Mexico, 05/2012, no children, category not below.
A gem in Albuquerque's backyard. Multiple trails for hiking, biking, birdwatching, trail running 365 days a year! Lots of picnic tables and shelters to enjoy yourself after your choice activity.
On one of our first days in Albuquerque we - my husband, my daughter and I- went to Elena Gallegos Park to see the Sandia Mountain closer. It was fun to walk in the trails and realise we were 6,000 feet+ high. We had to slow down to adapt to the altitude. It must be special to be there at sunset.
A great area for an easy hike - and take your dog! My family likes to take sandwiches for a quick picnic in the outdoors yet close to town. This is the high desert so dress in layers and stay hydrated!
There are lovely picnic areas and lots of opportunities for hiking at all levels. I go there very often.
Albuquerque is one of the most under-rated urban riding destinations, and this park is a big part of that. Sick desert singletrack trails.
The park and general area is a great place to spend time and hike, relax, picnic and take in all the great scenery. You can even do some bouldering close by, and above the park is some great rock climbing. You can do it all.
We had a group of 50 with kids of all ages and we had a wonderful time. Hiking, walking and all the beauty of New Mexico. We use the area again next year.
There are miles and miles of trails in this ABQ open space. Most of the trails are easy hiking. If you go more than a very short distance, I highly recommend a map. Many of the trails connect to each other and you can get turned around pretty quick if you're not careful. But the trails re well marked.There are picnic areas and some short paved paths for quick visitors. The view of the mountains and also the view of the volcanoes and the city are amazing. I hike through Elena Gallegos a few times a year and it never gets old. Fees are negligible. $1 per car during the week, $2 per car on the weekend and holidays. There are even several parking areas. So drive around a bit till you find the picnic area you want or the best view of the city.
Excellent place close to Albuquerque, and yet able to get away from people. You can hike, bike or ride horses up into the Sandias. In the summer make sure you carry enough water. Many couples have held their weddings here.