Running in Circles

Boca Negra Dam

Distance: 1 Kilometer
Surface: Asphalt
Elevation Gain: 22 feet

The Boca Negra Dam is part of Albuquerque’s West Mesa drainage infrastructure. It is located at the intersection of Unser and Rainbow Boulevards. Around it’s perimeter is a multiuse asphalt trail, that is excellent for running laps.

“I always loved running… it was something you could do by yourself and under your own power. You could go in any direction, fast or slow as you wanted, fighting the wind if you felt like it, seeking out new sights just on the strength of your feet and the courage of your lungs.”

– Jessie Owens

Boca Negra Dam Loop

If you would like a track to pratice for a 5K, this is it. The Boca Negra Dam loop is slightly over 1 kilometer. The surface is asphalt like like that of many road races. Twenty-two feet of elevation gain on every lap adds a little spice to the mix.

Parking Lot

The parking lot entrance is located on the south side of Rainbow Boulavard just west of Unser Boulavard.

East edge of the Dam

The trail dips into then out of a short flat section on the east edge of the dam that runs along Unser Boulevard.

Fork to Unser Blvd

On the north side on the loop is a fork not far from the parking lot. This fork runs down to the intersection of Unser and Rainbow Blvd. Continuing along the loop there is a second fork on the north side that passes under Unser Boulevard then into Boca Negra Canyon. See below the route description for details of extending your run.

Front Row Seat

This bench is positioned so it faces Sandia Mountain. After dark the view of the city lights is spectacular.

Long Stretch

This is the longest stretch, which runs along the edge of Montecito Estates. In the distance, located in The Trails, is Volcano Vista High School.

Route Description:

Each lab is 1.08 kilometers (0.67 miles).
Five laps is 5.4 K, with an elevation gain of 110 feet. It is perfect for training for a street race.
You can do hill work on this track. In two hill sections, one long and one short, in either direction.
The track is a good place to run Fartleks, 30/30s, and intervals too.
You can run all year round, of course running at high noon in the summer is not for everyone.
If you get bored running in circles take the fork and run down and through Boca Negra Canyon. The hill coming back up from the canyon is very steep. I’ve only see a few people that can power through it, but you know what, it is a challenge to conquer.