Cedar Crest Travel Guide

Explore the sights and sounds of Cedar Crest, New Mexico, with this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Cedar Crest

Cedar Crest is a small town in Central New Mexico, situated at an elevation of 7,000 feet in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains. The town is known for its rugged natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions such as museums and historical landmarks. Whether you’re looking for a scenic hike, a cultural experience, or simply a break from the big city, Cedar Crest has something to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Cedar Crest

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tinkertown Museum – This quirky museum features miniature dioramas made from recycled materials, as well as a gift shop.
  • Sandia Peak Tramway – Take a scenic tram ride up the Sandia Mountains and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
  • Santa Fe Trail – This historic trail dates back to the 1800s and was once used for trade and commerce between Santa Fe and Missouri.

Natural Attractions of Cedar Crest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sandia Crest – Hike or drive to the top of Sandia Crest for stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Cibola National Forest – This vast national forest is perfect for hiking, camping, and picnicking.
  • Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site – Learn about the ancient Pueblo people and their way of life at this fascinating archaeological site.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cedar Crest

Cedar Crest is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with plenty of trails for all skill levels. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:

  • La Luz Trail – This challenging, 8-mile trail takes you up to the top of Sandia Crest.
  • Foothills Trail – This 4.8-mile trail is popular with hikers and runners and offers great views of the city and surrounding landscape.
  • Tunnel Canyon Trail – This 2.5-mile trail winds through beautiful scenery and is a great option for beginners.

Best Things to Do in Cedar Crest: Activities and Tours

  • Hot-air Balloon Rides – Experience Cedar Crest from the sky on a hot-air balloon ride.
  • Guided Hikes – Join a guided hike to explore the local flora and fauna with an expert guide.
  • Horseback Riding – Take a leisurely ride through the stunning scenery of the Sandia Mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cedar Crest

Day 1: Explore Tinkertown Museum and take a scenic tram ride up the Sandia Mountains.

Day 2: Go hiking in Cibola National Forest and visit the Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site.

Day 3: Take a hot-air balloon ride at dawn and then relax with an afternoon of horseback riding.

Day 4: Explore the Santa Fe Trail and the historic town of Santa Fe.

Day 5: Visit the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History and then enjoy a sunset hike in the Sandia Mountains.

Day 6: Go on a guided hike through the Foothills Trail and spend the afternoon at a local winery.

Day 7: Enjoy a day of relaxation at a local spa and then take a cooking class to learn about traditional New Mexican cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Cedar Crest

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chile Stew – This hearty stew is a New Mexican classic, made with pork, potatoes, and green chiles.
  • Enchiladas – These delicious tortillas are filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, and smothered in red or green chile sauce.
  • Sopapillas – These crispy, fried pastries are served with honey for a sweet and savory treat.

Local Beverages

  • New Mexican Wine – Vineyards in the area produce a variety of reds, whites, and rosés.
  • Cerveza – Local breweries produce a range of beers, from light and refreshing to bold and hoppy.
  • Agua Fresca – This refreshing drink is made from fruit, water, and sugar, and is perfect for hot days.

Where to Stay in Cedar Crest: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Sandia Resort & Casino – This luxurious resort features a casino, golf course, and spa, as well as multiple restaurants and bars.
  • Lazy K Ranch Bed & Breakfast – This charming B&B offers comfortable rooms and delicious home-cooked meals.
  • Airbnb – There are plenty of Airbnb options in Cedar Crest, from cozy cabins to spacious villas.

What to Buy in Cedar Crest: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery – The traditional pottery of the local Pueblo people is beautiful and unique.
  • Jewelry – The area is known for its handmade jewelry, featuring precious stones and metals.
  • Salsa and hot sauce – Take home a taste of New Mexico with a bottle of spicy salsa or hot sauce.

Local Culture and Customs of Cedar Crest

The area is home to a rich blend of cultures, including Hispanic, Native American, and Western traditions. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as observing local dress codes at religious sites and participating in cultural celebrations.

Best Time to Visit Cedar Crest

The best time to visit Cedar Crest is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it’s a great time to hit the slopes at Sandia Peak Ski Area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cedar Crest

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do hike or bike through the beautiful landscapes of the Sandia Mountains.
  • Do visit the local museums and cultural landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect local customs or religious sites.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t underestimate the effects of high altitude – drink plenty of water and take it easy if you’re not used to it.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cedar Crest

Cedar Crest is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take precautions such as locking car doors and not leaving valuables visible. Hikers should also be aware of the potential hazards of mountain trails, such as steep drops and flash floods.

Health in Cedar Crest

Cedar Crest is located at high altitude, and visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as headache, nausea, and dizziness. It’s important to drink plenty of water and take it easy until you acclimate to the altitude.

Getting to Cedar Crest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cedar Crest

The nearest airport to Cedar Crest is Albuquerque International Sunport, located about 25 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Cedar Crest

The nearest bus station to Cedar Crest is in Albuquerque, about 20 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service from Albuquerque to Cedar Crest.

How to Get Around Cedar Crest

The best way to get around Cedar Crest is by car, but visitors can also bike or hike through the local trails.

Where to Go Next from Cedar Crest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Albuquerque – This vibrant city is full of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.
  • Santa Fe – This historic city is known for its art scene, architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
  • Bandelier National Monument – This national monument features ancient cliff dwellings and stunning natural scenery.

Conclusion

Cedar Crest is a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone looking for a taste of New Mexico’s rich heritage. With its stunning natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and delicious cuisine, Cedar Crest is sure to mesmerize visitors with its unique blend of history and beauty.

The view from Sandia Crest The view from Sandia Crest