The Sandia Crest National Scenic Byway, also known as NM 536, is officially part of the Turquoise Trail. The route takes you into the Cibola National Forest, filled with Ponderosa pines, Gambel oaks and spectacular wildlife, including black bear, mule deer and migrating neotropical birds. Along the way, you’ll find great spots for hiking, picnicking and wildlife viewing.

Congress dedicated this area as a National Forest in 1907 and today, Sandia Mountain is part of the Sandia Ranger District of the Cibola National Forest. The byway leads to Sandia Peak Ski Area and ends at Sandia Crest, with an elevation of 10, 678 feet and panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley.