ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Starting on Thursday, the Cibola National Forest will shut down the Sandia Crest Recreation Area until fall 2027 for several construction and maintenance projects.
Hikers on Wednesday spent some time to soak up the views while they could.
Ryan Slater, a hiker, said, “I remember when I read about it, I did want to take a note to come back up here one last time because I don’t want to pay 25 bucks to take a gondola. I’m sure that’s going to be open but I’d rather much just drive up here.”
What will be closed?
The closure will impact a large section of the top of the mountain just north of the Sandia Peak Tramway and Ten-3 restaurant. Several trails surrounding Kiwani’s Cabin and the parking lot at the top of the Sandia Crest Highway will be closed.
Forest officials said parts of the crest and Highway 536 may open sooner than fall of 2027.
A big construction project ahead
The Forest Service is planning to reduce wildfire risks, and conduct renovations of the parking area.
The Sandia Crest House will also be coming down.
In its place, the Sandia Ranger District plans to build additional observation areas, shade structures, seating features, landscaped areas, interpretative signage, and trail connections.
Hikers on Wednesday were hopeful for some sort of replacement that includes food.
Barb Karlo, a hiker, said, “It’d be nice to have something like the crest has, like a nice restaurant, and gift shop, and I know this is going to be torn down but it’d be nice.”
Nehan Syed, a hiker, said he was hoping for “Maybe like a gift shop, some people selling some ice cream. That’d be nice.”
The Forest Service has also considered the idea of allowing a food truck to take the place of the Crest House.
What will still be open?
Visitors who do not want to hike to the top of the mountain can still take scenic photos by visiting the Sandia Peak Tram.
Several trails, including the popular La Luz Trail will remain open. However, hikers will need to take detours such as the 10K trail to bypass the closure area.
