October is a great time to explore the autumn landscape. And one of the best places to do that in Albuquerque is along the Bosque, an area around the Rio Grande whose name comes from the Spanish word for "forest." There's natural beauty, birds and wildlife, and art installations that celebrate the area. Whether you're walking or biking, it's a great and scenic area to explore, especially at this time of year, and our real estate brokers know all the best spots to check out. Here are a few you won't want to miss.

Exploring the Albuquerque Scenery

Paseo del Bosque Trail – Albuquerque, NM

Location: Multiple access points from Alameda Boulevard to Rio Bravo Boulevard

The Paseo del Bosque Trail includes 16 miles of paved, multi-use paths, great for walking, cycling, and more. Several access points along the trail offer ample parking, and each has something interesting to see and experience. At Montaño Road, a display of wood carvings draws visitors, while the Campbell Road entrance provides access to the Rio Grande Nature Center. Also near Albuquerque homes for sale, check out the Central Avenue Bridge, which leads directly to the Tingley Beach Public Art walking tour.

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park – Albuquerque, NM

Address: 2901 Candelaria Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107

If you're into birdwatching, there's no better place than Rio Grande Nature Center State Park. There's a large wildlife pond that is home to a variety of migratory birds, including:

• Ducks
• Canada geese
• Sandhill cranes

Located near North Valley homes for sale, the park also has 1.2 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and the Mariposaville Pollinator Garden, where you can see all sorts of native plants and flowers.

Open Space Visitor Center – Albuquerque, NM

Address: 6500 Coors Blvd. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120

The Open Space Visitor Center is a great place to explore both nature and art. The OSVC Gallery features art exhibitions that foster appreciation and understanding of the outdoors. The Demonstration Garden shows how food has been grown and cultivated in New Mexico over the years, and the agricultural fields offer views of the Sandia Mountains. Located near Northwest Heights & Ladera Heights homes for sale, the center also hosts events throughout the year. Come Saturday, October 17 for the Cosmic Carnival & Star Party to get amazing views of the night sky through telescopes.

Pueblo Montaño Picnic Area and Trailhead – Albuquerque, NM

Location: South of Montaño Road, east of Coors Boulevard, and west of the Rio Grande

There's no better starting point for exploring the Bosque trails of the Rio Grande than the Pueblo Montaño Picnic Area and Trailhead. Part of Rio Grande Valley State Park, it provides access to the Bosque trail system on the west side and is accessible by car, horse, or foot. The picnic area is right by the Pueblo Montaño Chainsaw Sculpture Garden, a series of beautiful sculptures created from the charred remains of trees after a fire tore through the area. Bring the family, enjoy the sculptures and the area's natural beauty, and explore the rest of the park via the trail system.

Rio del Norte Picnic Area – Albuquerque, NM

Location: East side of the Rio Grande, north of Central Avenue and west of Tingley Drive

On the east side of Rio Grande Valley State Park is the Rio del Norte Picnic Area. In addition to picnic tables, it has a trail loop that's great for biking, with plenty of shade from the cottonwood trees. It also has convenient access to the ABQ BioPark, which has plenty to see and explore, including:

• Zoo
• Aquarium
• Botanic Garden

Located near Downtown Albuquerque homes for sale, the picnic area is also a great spot for river views and a host of migratory birds.

Aldo Leopold Interpretive Trail and Forest – Albuquerque, NM

Location: Access from Pueblo Montaño Picnic Area; walk east across the Rio Grande to the trail entrance

For great views of the local trees, check out the Aldo Leopold Interpretive Trail and Forest. This 53-acre area extends from the Rio Grande Nature Center to the Montaño Bridge. It's dedicated to Aldo Leopold, a wildlife ecologist who sought to foster a more ethical relationship with the land and nature. Explore the area by hiking, biking, or horseback riding. The trails afford great views of the river, as well as opportunities to see bald eagles and other migratory birds.

More About Exploring Albuquerque's Bosque

How long is the Paseo del Bosque Trail?

The Paseo del Bosque Trail is approximately 16 miles long, with multiple access points between Alameda Boulevard and Rio Bravo Boulevard.

Where can you go birdwatching along Albuquerque's Bosque?

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is a popular choice for birdwatching, with a wildlife pond, viewing areas, and opportunities to see migratory birds such as ducks, Canada geese, and sandhill cranes.

Where can you see public art along the Bosque?

Visitors can find public art at several locations, including the wood carvings at Pueblo Montaño and art installations along portions of the Paseo del Bosque Trail near Tingley Beach and Central Avenue.

Finding Your New Home in Albuquerque

Albuquerque has plenty to explore in autumn and year-round. Contact us if you're ready to make your new home.