With the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta drawing visitors from across the globe, and as a federal government shutdown could bring potential disruptions of service at nearby national parks, Bernalillo County is inviting the public to explore the other side of our beautiful high-desert metropolis.
The county manages more than 1,200 acres of open space across 17 properties, ranging from scenic trails and restored farmlands to historic homesteads and desert arroyos.
These spaces are open to residents and visitors alike, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, birding, picnicking and connecting with the region’s landscapes to provide visitors to the Land of Enchantment an alternative way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Bernalillo County’s open spaces also offer historical and educational opportunities, preserving both parts of New Mexico’s storied past and the pristine natural spaces it’s set within. Whether you want a short hike between balloon launches or a full afternoon in the bosque, these lands were specifically cultivated for the community to enjoy.
Featured Open Spaces
- Bachechi Open Space – A North Valley favorite with trails, art, gardens and year-round educational programs.
- Gutierrez-Hubbell Open Space – A South Valley treasure featuring a historic Camino Real trading post and museum, authentic adobe structures, a cultural center, farm fields and river trails.
- Carlito Springs Open Space – A mountain retreat east of Albuquerque with natural springs, orchards and shaded trails.
Maps, hours and more details about each open space are available at bernco.gov/open-space. Visitors are encouraged to check property guidelines, pack water and follow “leave-no-trace” practices.