Overview
The South Crest Trail offers a fundamentally different Sandia Mountains experience than the west-face climbs from Albuquerque. Starting at Sandia Crest, already at 10,678 feet via the paved Crest Road, the trail traverses the southern ridgeline of the Sandias through spruce-fir forest and rocky outcrops with views extending in both directions: Albuquerque and the Rio Grande Valley to the west, the Estancia Valley and the Manzano Mountains to the east.
The trail gains 2,200 feet over 8 miles as it dips into saddles and climbs to ridge high points along the crest. Starting at the road means no approach hiking; the ridgeline trail begins immediately from the parking area. This accessibility makes the South Crest a popular choice for visitors who want to spend time on the upper Sandias without the demanding ascent of La Luz. It is also a classic route for hikers based in Cibola National Forest's Santa Fe or Albuquerque area who want something between the challenging west-face routes and the easier foothills trails.
The South Crest Trail forms part of the longer Crest Trail that runs the full length of the Sandia ridgeline. This 8-mile out-and-back covers the southern portion before the ridge descends toward the Tijeras area.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2: Crest to First Saddle. The trail begins at the Sandia Crest parking area (10,678 ft) and immediately heads south along the ridgeline. Spruce-fir forest lines both sides of the narrow ridge. Views to the west toward Albuquerque open at rocky outcrops throughout this section. The trail dips to a saddle at approximately mile 2 before climbing back to the ridgeline.
Miles 2 to 5: Ridgeline Traverse. The trail follows the crest through multiple minor summits and saddles. Wildlife is active throughout this section, particularly early in the morning: Abert's squirrels, wild turkeys, and deer are commonly seen. The spruce-fir forest transitions to more open rocky terrain on the windward sides of the ridge. The highest point of this section reaches approximately 10,500 feet at mile 4.
Miles 5 to 4: Turn-around and Return. The trail begins to descend below 10,000 feet at around mile 4, and the turnaround for this out-and-back is at mile 4 before the sustained descent. Strong hikers can continue but the return climb from lower elevations adds significantly to the effort.
When to Visit
April through November. The Crest Road typically closes in winter when snow and ice make it impassable; check NM Department of Transportation for road status before planning a winter or early spring visit. The trail itself can be hiked with microspikes when the road is open in winter months. Summer is generally pleasant at crest elevation, though afternoon monsoon storms require returning to the car or below treeline by early afternoon.
Fall color on the east side of the crest in the aspens below is visible from the ridgeline in late September.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry the following for the South Crest:
- Wind layer (the crest is frequently windy)
- Rain shell (afternoon storms in summer are common)
- Water (facilities at Crest House in season, but carry personal water)
- Sunscreen (rocky outcrops have full sun exposure)
- Microspikes for shoulder season icy conditions
Practical Details
No permit required (as of 2026). Facilities at Sandia Crest include restrooms and a gift shop/visitor area operated by a concessionaire. Fees may apply for facility use but not for trail access. Managed by the Sandia Ranger District of Cibola National Forest.
Cell service at the crest is generally good (towers visible). Service decreases on the trail itself.
Getting There
From Albuquerque, take I-40 east to the Tijeras exit (Exit 175). Follow NM Highway 333 east briefly, then turn north on NM Highway 536 (Crest Road). Crest Road climbs 13.5 miles to the Sandia Crest. The drive from the Tijeras exit takes approximately 30 minutes. Total from downtown Albuquerque is about 45 minutes.
From Santa Fe, take I-25 south to I-40 west, then east on I-40 to the Tijeras exit. Allow approximately 75 minutes total.