Overview
The Tenth Mountain Trail explores the Manzano Mountains, the quieter southern extension of the Albuquerque mountain complex in Cibola National Forest. The Manzanos receive a fraction of the visitor traffic of the Sandia Mountains despite offering comparable forest scenery and a similar elevation range. The trail is named for the 10th Mountain Division, the Army's mountain warfare unit that trained in New Mexico during World War II.
The 6-mile round trip climbs 1,200 feet through ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forest to the boundary of the Manzano Mountain Wilderness. The grade is steady and the terrain is less dramatic than the west face of the Sandias but the forest is denser and the solitude more reliable. Fall color in the Manzano Mountains is among the best in central New Mexico, with bigtooth maple, Gambel oak, and aspen creating a colorful October display that attracts dedicated fall-color hikers from Albuquerque.
Wildlife in the Manzanos includes mule deer, wild turkey, and occasionally black bear. The forest is productive enough for casual wildlife observation without special effort.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.5: Trailhead to Mid-Forest. The trail begins in ponderosa pine at the trailhead near Highway 55 and climbs steadily into the Manzano forest. The grade is consistent and the tread well-maintained. Mixed conifer begins to appear at higher elevations. A small seasonal creek crosses the trail at mile 1.5 and may hold water through summer in wet years.
Miles 2.5 to 3: Forest to Wilderness Boundary. The trail reaches the Manzano Mountain Wilderness boundary at approximately mile 3. A signed marker notes the wilderness entry. This is the designated turnaround for the day hike. The upper wilderness offers extended hiking on the Manzano Crest Trail for those who want to continue.
When to Visit
April through November. The Manzanos are accessible somewhat earlier in spring than the higher Sandias. Fall color peaks in early to mid-October and is the best reason to visit during this period. Summer is pleasant in the forest shade. Afternoon thunderstorms in July and August require awareness on the upper trail.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry the following:
- Layers (the forest temperature is 10-15 degrees cooler than Albuquerque)
- Water (carry sufficient supply; stream water requires treatment)
- Fall color visitors: camera and good morning light timing
Practical Details
No permit required (as of 2026). Vault restroom at the trailhead. Dispersed camping permitted on forest land with Leave No Trace guidelines. The trail is managed by the Mountainair Ranger District of Cibola National Forest.
Getting There
From Albuquerque, take I-40 east to the Tijeras exit. Head south on NM Highway 337 toward the Manzano Mountains and Manzano village, approximately 35 miles. Turn west on NM Highway 55 toward Manzano and follow signs for the Tenth Mountain Trailhead. Total drive from Albuquerque is approximately 50 to 60 minutes. The access roads to the trailhead are paved to the main junction and then transition to improved gravel.
For the broader Cibola National Forest guide and comparison with the Sandia Mountain trails, see the forest overview page.