Pino Trail, Sandia Mountains, New Mexico

This out-and-back trail starts off flat and friendly, winding through piñon-juniper forest that smells like sunshine and sage. The further you go through The Pino Trail New Mexico, the more the terrain gently rises, giving you a true hiking experience while still being fully manageable for beginners, families and even leashed pups.

A Trail for New Hikers Who Want More Than a Walk in the Park

Nestled in the Sandia Mountain Wilderness just east of Albuquerque, the Pino Trail is a gateway to New Mexico’s iconic high-desert beauty without requiring hardcore boots or advanced trail skills. With its mellow start, gradual elevation and sweeping views of the city and mountains, it’s a fantastic option for beginners ready to move beyond urban paths and into the wild.

Why Pino Trail is a Beginner’s Favorite in New Mexico

🌲 Forest to Foothills Flow: The first 1.5 miles are mostly flat, perfect for warming up and enjoying the peaceful woodland atmosphere. It’s a great place to build confidence before tackling steeper terrain.

🌇 Panoramic City Views: About two miles in, the trail opens up to reveal stunning vistas of Albuquerque and the Rio Grande Valley—especially magical at sunrise or sunset.

🪨 Choose Your Turnaround: For an easy outing, turn back after the second mile. Want a little more challenge? Continue upward and the trail gets rockier but rewards you with even grander views. And in case you are wondering what is a trail difficulty definition, make sure you read our guide on how to understand trail difficulty ratings.

Trail Details at a Glance

📍 Location: Sandia Mountain Wilderness, Cibola National Forest
🧭 GPS Coordinates: 35°09’23.8″N, 106°27’32.8″W
📏 Distance: ~4.5 miles round-trip (or shorter for a beginner-friendly turnaround)
⛰️ Elevation Gain: ~800 feet
🥾 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
🔁 Trail Type: Out-and-back
🐕 Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
🅿️ Parking: Free at trailhead
🚻 Facilities: None—plan ahead
📅 Best Seasons: Spring and fall for cooler temps and clear views
💵 Fees: None for day hiking

What to Bring for a Smooth Hike

To make the most of your Pino Trail experience, come prepared with these essentials:

  • 1–2 liters of water (there are no water sources on the trail)
  • Lightweight hiking shoes or sneakers with good grip
  • A sun hat and SPF (no shade past the forest section)
  • A snack or energy bar for the turnaround point
  • A fully charged phone or camera (views are worth it!)
  • Offline trail map or GPS app (cell service is spotty)

Why It Belongs on Your Beginner Bucket List

Pino Trail offers more than just a walk. It delivers an authentic New Mexico hiking experience in a format that’s welcoming, scenic and just challenging enough. Whether you’re easing into mountain trails or just want a peaceful half-day outdoors, this gem in the Sandias offers the perfect mix of ease and elevation.