Cienega – Crest – Bart’s – Faulty Loop Hike
In Sandia Mountain East Region

Map File Source:

Hike Key: H10614
Last Updated: 12/05/2023 8:42pm
Last Updated By: Marilyn Fixer
Hike Class: E (Most difficult)
Hike Distance: 9 mi
Minimum Elevation: 7500 ft
Elevation Change: 2000 ft
Total Uphill: 2500 ft
Total Downhill: 2500 ft
Avg. Grade: %
Route Type: CCW Loop
On Trail: Yes
Paved or Gravel Roads: Yes
GPS Advised: No
Hiker Limit (NF/BLM/NP): 15 (Sandia Wilderness)
Drive Distance Round Trip: 30 mi
Drive Time One-Way: 0:30
Hiking Seasons: Spring, Summer, and Fall
New Mexico Game Unit: 8
Hike Status: In Process

Highlights

Hike through the woods on the east side of the Sandias with great views from the Crest Trail.

Cautions

Some steep sections, the distance, and the total uphill make this a very challenging hike.

Trailhead Directions

Start at the Cienega trailhead at the upper end of the Cienega Picnic Area.

Actual Hike

Hike up Cienega Trail to the pass where it connects with the Crest Trail and Pino Trail on the west side. Hike south on the Crest Trail to the upper end of the Canoncito Trail. Hike down the Canoncito Trail to the Faulty Trail. Possible two-mile round trip side trip to Cole Springs Picnic Area (abandoned). Hike north on the Faulty Trail to the junction with Cienega Trail. Hike down Cienega Trail to the trailhead.

Comments

With direct access to Canoncito and Cole Springs cut off, this is now the best way to get into these remote areas.

Text Author: Randy Simons
Map Author:
Waypoints Author:
Track Author:
Maintainer: Randy Simons
Editor: Marilyn Warrant