Elena Gallegos Picnic Area and Albert G. Simms Park
This beautiful 640 acre park has an elevation of approx 6,500 feet with a plethora of flora and fauna. A network of paths is available for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. There are also two paths for hikers only.
The Cottonwood Springs Trail is an easy, fully accessible half-mile self-guided path that leads to a pond and wildlife blind. On this path you can enjoy artwork by Margie O’Brien at the shaded rest stops.
The Pino Trail (140) is a challenging 4.5 mile path where you can enjoy the wildlife of the Sandia Mountains. Make sure you see the “Five Stones of Elena Gallegos” by Billie Walters. This rock garden is comprised of five weathered boulders selected by the artist. These sculptures are a memorial to conservationist Phil Tollefsrud.
Fees:
Monday-Friday: $1, Saturday-Sunday: $2.
You can also purchase an annual pass; the application can be downloaded online which is also valid at Boca Negra Canyon. Location:
Simms Park Rd. From Tramway and Academy, take Tramway North to Simms. Turn East on Simms Park Rd. and follow 1.5 miles to the visitor center.
Hours:
April – October: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
November – March: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Ashley looks like just “pristine raw beauty” of your desert and something fun to do in Albuquerque NM – I bet local families really enjoy the views and hiking. Enjoyed learning about Elena Gallegos Picnic area.- Cyndee Haydon
My wife would absolutely go crazy if she had a park like Albert G. Simms Park there is Albuquerque, NM. That looks like an incredible place to go and spend the day with the family with plenty of things to see and fun to be had.
The Cottonwood Springs Trail is an easy, fully accessible half-mile self-guided path that leads to a pond and wildlife blind. On this path you can enjoy artwork by Margie O’Brien at the shaded rest stops.
The Pino Trail (140) is a challenging 4.5 mile path where you can enjoy the wildlife of the Sandia Mountains. Make sure you see the 
Amenities: 
Fees:
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Ashley looks like just “pristine raw beauty” of your desert and something fun to do in Albuquerque NM – I bet local families really enjoy the views and hiking. Enjoyed learning about Elena Gallegos Picnic area.- Cyndee Haydon
Cyndee- The area is a great place for a family hike. Natasha and I went on a mini adventure there one day!
Ashley,
My wife would absolutely go crazy if she had a park like Albert G. Simms Park there is Albuquerque, NM. That looks like an incredible place to go and spend the day with the family with plenty of things to see and fun to be had.
Chad
Chad – My youngest and I had a blast the last time we went out. It is a great place in the foothills.
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