Hiking with Kids Open
Michael Emery Trailhead
4.7(338)4.7 out of 5 stars, 338 reviews Albuquerque, NM
About Michael Emery Trailhead
Michael Emery Trailhead offers a versatile outdoor experience ideal for families looking to walk, run, or bike amidst stunning desert and mountain scenery. Its unique value proposition lies in its combination of smooth, accessible paths for various activity levels, panoramic views of the Sandia Mountains and Albuquerque, and its connection to a wider network of trails for those seeking longer or more challenging adventures.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families seeking a 'family-friendly hike' with great views.Active families with children who enjoy walking, running, or biking.Cyclists (road or mountain bikers) looking for smooth terrain or challenging ascents via connecting trails.Anyone wanting to enjoy fresh air and sunshine with scenic backdrops.**Young Children (0-5 years):** Suitable for leisurely strolls with parents, potentially with strollers on the smoother paths (though not explicitly confirmed as stroller-friendly beyond 'smooth terrain').
Why families love it
- Versatile for walking, running, biking, and mountain biking, catering to different fitness levels.
- Smooth terrain ideal for leisurely strolls, brisk walks, and invigorating cycling sessions.
- Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Sandia Mountains and the entire city of Albuquerque.
- Provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and observe desert flora and fauna.
- Connects to a network of other trails, allowing for extended hikes or rides further into the mountains.
- Exceptional scenic views of the Sandia Mountains and the city of Albuquerque.
Insider tips
- Consider visiting during the week if parking is a priority, as it can be less busy.
- If the main parking lot is full, drive farther down the road as street parking alternatives are available.
- Go around sunset for a spectacular view of the Sandia Mountains illuminated.
- Bring sun protection (hats, sunscreen) due to the limited shade, especially during summer or midday visits.
- Check trail maps (if available) to understand the network connections for longer hikes or rides.
Good to know before you go
- Midday during hot summer months if shade is a high priority.
- If you have mobility issues that require paved, completely flat surfaces (while paths are 'smooth', they are still trails).
- Expecting ample, guaranteed parking during peak times (e.g., weekday after-work hours), as it can be challenging.
- Lack of significant shade, which may be an issue during peak sun hours, especially in summer.
- Parking can be a challenge to find 'most of the time', especially on busy days or during peak hours (e.g., weekday evenings).
- Crowds
- Can be 'busy on regular day' (weekdays).
- Value
- No pricing information mentioned, implying free access to the trailhead and trails.
- Accessibility
- No specific accessibility accommodations (e.g., ADA restrooms, paved wheelchair paths) are mentioned.
- Safety
- No specific safety features (e.g., patrols, first aid stations, emergency call boxes) are explicitly mentioned in the reviews. Standard outdoor trail safety precautions should be followed.
What parents say
"Great place to walk, run or bike Great place to walk, run or bike This area offers a wonderful opportunity for enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. The paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk. Those seeking a more intense workout can enjoy a refreshing run. Cyclists will also find the smooth terrain ideal for a leisurely ride or an invigorating training session. It's a truly pleasant environment for all kinds of outdoor activities."
2 months ago
"March 20, 2024 Visited this trail on regular weekday after work and got lucky to find a parking spot. Michael Emery trail joins the network of other endless trails. This trail surrounded by Sandia mountain 🏔️ and turning back shows whole ABQ. One of the best trails in the area, no wonder it’s busy on regular day"
a year ago
"A nice place to go hiking or mountain biking. It is spelled Michael Emery, not Michial Emery."
2 weeks ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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