Edgewood Travel Guide

Explore the best natural attractions, cultural sites, accommodation options and more with this comprehensive guide to Edgewood, New Mexico.


Introduction to Edgewood

Nestled in the heart of Central New Mexico, Edgewood is a small town with a big history. Originally settled by homesteaders in the early 20th century, Edgewood has since grown into a vibrant community with a rich cultural and natural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Edgewood

Whether you’re interested in hiking, history, or just soaking up the local culture, Edgewood has something for everyone. Below are some of the top attractions in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Edgewood Historical Society & Museum - Learn about the town’s history at this museum, which features exhibits on early settlers, Native American heritage, and local agriculture.
  • Ranger Station Art Gallery - Check out works by local artists at this unique gallery.
  • Wildlife West Nature Park - Enjoy a day with your family or friends exploring this wildlife sanctuary with amazing displays of birds and animals.

Natural Attractions of Edgewood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sandia Mountains - Take a scenic drive through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, which offer ample hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • South Mountain Park - Visit this protected area to take in views of the surrounding desert landscape and spot local wildlife such as coyotes, foxes, and more.
  • East Mountain Wilderness Park - Another nearby park that offers hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Edgewood

Outdoor adventurers will find plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Edgewood. Below are some of the top hiking and biking trails in the area:

  • Sandia Crest Trail - A challenging 26-mile hike that offers stunning views of the Sandia Mountains and surrounding desert.
  • Piedra Lisa Trail - This 6-mile trail begins at the base of the Sandia Mountains and offers great views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Los Duendes Trail - A popular mountain biking trail in the nearby Manzano Mountains with scenic vistas and challenging technical features.

Best Things to Do in Edgewood: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for more things to do in Edgewood, consider checking out some of the area’s top activities and tours:

  • Wine Tasting Tours - The nearby Estancia Valley is known for its award-winning wines, and several local companies offer wine tasting tours.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides - Take a bird’s eye view of the beautiful New Mexico landscape with a hot air balloon ride.
  • Wildlife Tours - Join a guided tour to spot native New Mexico wildlife, including elk, bison, black bears, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Edgewood

If you’re planning to spend a week in Edgewood, consider the following itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Edgewood Historical Society & Museum and Ranger Station Art Gallery.

Day 2: Take a scenic drive through the Sandia Mountains and explore the area’s hiking and biking trails.

Day 3: Visit Wildlife West Nature Park and see the local wildlife.

Day 4: Embark on a wine tasting tour of the Estancia Valley.

Day 5: Take a hot air balloon ride over the New Mexico landscape.

Day 6: Join a guided wildlife tour and spot native animals.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local scenery in South Mountain Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Edgewood

When it comes to food and drink, Edgewood has plenty of options for visitors. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chile Cheeseburger - A New Mexico classic, this dish combines juicy beef with spicy green chile and melted cheese.
  • Posole - A traditional Mexican stew made with hominy and pork.
  • Navajo Tacos - Frybread topped with ground beef, beans, cheese, and chiles - a delicious dish loved by locals and visitors alike.

Local Beverages

  • Pinon Coffee - A New Mexico staple, this coffee is made with locally roasted pinon nuts for a unique and tasty twist.
  • Margaritas - Made with fresh lime juice, tequila, and triple sec, this classic cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm New Mexico afternoon.
  • Local Craft Beer - New Mexico is known for its growing craft beer scene, and Edgewood has several breweries serving up unique and tasty beers.

Where to Stay in Edgewood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Luckily for visitors to Edgewood, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Below are some of the top options in the area:

  • Route 66 RV Resort - This highly rated resort features both RV and tent camping options, as well as cabins and cottages for those looking for a more luxurious camping experience.
  • Wildlife West Nature Park RV Resort - Another nearby RV resort with full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities, located just minutes away from the nature park.
  • Super 8 by Wyndham - Located in the heart of Edgewood, this budget hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.

What to Buy in Edgewood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or gifts to bring home from Edgewood, consider the following local products:

  • Native American Jewelry - New Mexico is home to many talented Native American artisans who craft beautiful jewelry out of silver, turquoise, and other natural materials.
  • Pinon Nuts - These tasty nuts are a New Mexico favorite, and can be found for sale in many local shops and markets.
  • Local Wines - as the state is producing a lot of wines, Edgewood offers promising wine markets to bring home some authentic wines.

Local Culture and Customs of Edgewood

Edgewood has a rich cultural heritage that visitors can explore during their stay. Below are some local customs and traditions worth learning about:

  • Art and Craft Markets - Visitors can find unique treasures at local art and craft markets, such as the East Mountain Celebration in Edgewood Civic Center.
  • Native American Culture - New Mexico is home to many Native American tribes, including some that have lived in the area for centuries. Visitors can learn more about the unique heritage of these tribes through tours and cultural events.
  • Spanish Heritage - New Mexico has a long history of Spanish settlement, and visitors can explore this heritage through art, architecture, and local customs.

Best Time to Visit Edgewood

The best time to visit Edgewood depends on your interests. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, plan your trip for the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable for hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Edgewood

To ensure that your visit to Edgewood is enjoyable and respectful to the locals, consider the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Respect Native American traditions and cultures.
  • Follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking or camping.
  • Support local businesses and artisans.

Don’t:

  • Take souvenirs from historic sites or natural areas.
  • Smoke in designated non-smoking areas.
  • Discriminate others regarding religion, ethnic background, and political affiliation.

Safety and Health

Safety in Edgewood

Edgewood is a relatively safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should exercise caution when hiking or camping in nearby natural areas.

Health in Edgewood

The high altitude of Edgewood can cause altitude sickness or other health problems for some visitors. Be aware of the symptoms and take it easy until you’re acclimatized. Bring along a lot of water and sunscreen to protect yourself during outdoor activities.

Getting to Edgewood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Located just off I-40, Edgewood is easy to access by car or taxi. Below are some other transportation options for getting to and around Edgewood:

Airports Near Edgewood

  • Albuquerque International Sunport - About a 45-minute drive from Edgewood.

Bus Stations Near Edgewood

  • Albuquerque Greyhound Station - About a 45-minute drive from Edgewood.

Other Options

  • Rent a car at the airport or in Albuquerque.
  • Use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get around town.

How to Get Around in Edgewood

The easiest way to get around Edgewood is by car, though taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Edgewood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of New Mexico after your visit to Edgewood, consider checking out some of these nearby destinations:

  • Albuquerque - Just a 30-minute drive west of Edgewood, Albuquerque offers a vibrant arts scene, great food, and many cultural attractions.
  • Santa Fe - The capital of New Mexico, this city is known for its lively art scene and enchanting architecture, only a 45-minute drive from Edgewood.
  • Taos - About a 2-hour drive from Edgewood, this city is home to beautiful galleries, museums, and historic landmarks, popular for resort destinations.

Conclusion

Edgewood is a hidden gem in New Mexico, with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of the region or learn more about its rich history and culture, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste in Edgewood.