5.5 Mile Bosque loop
North from Central and Tingley Dr
Distance: 5.5 miles
Surface: Asphalt and dirt trail
Elevation Gain: 36 feet
This is a mixed terrain route with the first half on a fast asphalt surface. The second half runs along a well maintained dirt path running through the Cottonwood grove back to start.
“Pain is temporary. It may last for a minute, or an hour or a day, or even a year. But eventually, it will subside. And something else take its place. If I quit, however, it will last forever.”
– Lance Armstrong disgraced cyclist
- The route starts from parking lot located on the east side of the Rio Grande at the intersection of Central Ave and Tingley Drive.
- The run starts north following the Paseo del Bosque Trail. The runner will pass the ABQ Bio Park botanical gardens, go under the I40 and up to Campbell Road.
- At Campbell Road the Paseo del Bosque trail will turn to the west and cross over a drainage ditch. Staight ahead would take the runner to the Nature Center.
- Once the other side of the drainage the trail slopes upward and then bears to the north.
- It is at this point that it gets a little tricky. At the top of the rise you want to enter the Bosque. Take the path heading towards the Rio.
- Near the Rio the path will wind around and head back towards the Paseo del Bosque Trail. Half way back you see a will maintained trail heading south. That is your turn.
- To find you way to the start follow the well maintained trail, do not deviate.
- The maintained trail is like the yellow brick road except there is no Dorothy, Toto or flying monkeys.
- At the I40 pick your way under the bridge. Once through then take the maintained trail towards the river.