North Crest Trail: Easy hiking to beautiful overlooks in the Sandia Mountains One of the loveliest (and least strenuous) trails in the Cibola National Forest is also one of the least known. In fact, if you
didn’t know the North Crest Trail was there, you might not even spot its trailhead.
The footing is excellent, there are gentle ups and downs which allow even those working on getting into shape to enjoy the experience.
Several trails have been called the North Crest Trail so it’s easy to become confused. Further, most of the trails in the area link up, enabling hikers to create their own personalize hiking experience. But it does leave a person trying to figure out which is the “real” trail.
Find the easy-hiking part of the trailDrive to the very top of the crest and park near the Crest House and gift shop. (Bathrooms are available outside). Now, walk down the hill just past the antennae farm. On the left side of the road there will be a sign showing the trails through the area, and if you look carefully, the North Crest trail entrance.Walking the TrailThe first part of the walk parallels the road, and skirts the antennae farm, but soon both disappear and the woods takes over. There are spectacular overlooks along the way.At the sign saying Del Agua Overlook 1.5 miles, there's an offshoot trail leading to the edge. Not only are the views lovely but there’s just enough room and shade for a picnic.
The more common hike that starts at the crest is actually the South Crest trail ( also quite lovely) that leads to the Kiwanis house and its own
spectacular views.
© 2009
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