Activities in Albuquerque
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Elena Gallegos Picnic Area
Elena Gallegos Picnic Area, in the foothills of the Sandias, is a popular jumping-off point for hiking, running and mountain-biking trails; some are wheelchair-accessible. Go early in the day before the overhead sun gets too hot, or at dusk to take advantage of the panoramic sunset views and watch the city lights begin twinkling below. Time your walk carefully, though, because darkness falls quickly after the sun sets and howling coyotes ring the park. They won’t bother you, but if you’re a fully fledged urbanite and unaccustomed to uninvited nighttime company, it might be unnerving.
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Stone Age Climbing Gym
Rock climbers itching to hit the wall will dig the Stone Age Climbing Gym, offering 12,000 sq ft of professionally designed climbing terrain simulating a variety of real rock features. Walls cater to all skill levels and reach almost 30ft high, and there are two lead climbing stations and four bouldering areas to choose from. Equipment can be rented for $6 per day. If you’re a novice and want to learn, try an intro class ($40). The gym is a great option, especially on rainy days when you don’t feel like seeing another museum.
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Northeast Cyclery
Cycling is a major sport in Albuquerque, both for beginners and national-level competitors. Get outfitted at Northeast Cyclery and head out. Download a useful city map at www.cabq.gov/bike to find dedicated off-road tracks along arroyos. To ride along the Rio Grande, park at the Albuquerque BioPark and follow the riverside trail north or south (the smell of green chiles roasting at local factories is best appreciated if you head south in October; the path is less urban if you head north).
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Conservatory of Flamenco Arts
If you're in the market for an authentic Latin experience, take a class at the Conservatory of Flamenco Arts. Stomp and clap to rhythms of live guitar music and your Spanish instructors. And don't forget your flamenco shoes! What? You don't have any? Buying a pair at the Conservatory will set you back about around US$100, but it could be the start of a lifelong passion. Class attire for men includes long pants and a fitted shit, for women a full skirt and fitted top or leotard.
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Sandia Peak Ski Area
Atop the Sandia Peak Tramway, the Sandia Peak Ski Area remains open during summer weekends and holidays (June to September) for mountain bikers. You can rent a bike at the base facility ($48 with $350 deposit) or ride the chairlift to the top of the peak with your own bike ($18).
reviewed
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Outpost Ice Arena
Skating in the desert? Who on earth would think about skating in the desert? Turns out, quite a few people. Fork over around US$6 to skate and around US$2 to rent a pair and enjoy every chilly moment. Just try not to bump into too many kids. Evening skate times change monthly.
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Discover Balloons
Several companies offer rides over the city and the Rio Grande, including Discover Balloons. Flights last about an hour, and many are offered early in the morning to catch optimal winds and the sunrise.
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A
Albuquerque
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B
Central Avenue
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