Top 5 Walking Trails in Gallup
There are miles of hiking and mountain biking trails to choose from around Gallup, including the High Desert Trail System, Zuni Mountain Trail System, and trails at Red Rock Park. However, if you are short on time, and looking for a place for a quick run or short stroll, here are five walking paths for you to explore in Gallup.
We The People Park
Short walking trail that goes through We The People Park, a worthwhile stop for the outdoor sculpture exhibit alone. The park is on the north side of I-40. Take the I-40 exit to Ford Dr./Miyamura/Bataan Memorial Dr. Take the first left, on Joseph M. Montoya Blvd. Ample parking.
The Playground of Dreams is across the street. Great stop if you have kids that need to burn off some energy.
Playground of Dreams | 830 B Wilson Ave
General Recreation • Picnic area • Play area • Restroom facilities • Water fountains
UNM Gallup Campus Fitness Trail
The UNM Gallup Fitness Trail is a 1.3 mile, well-maintained loop trail on the south side of Gallup, off Boardman Avenue. The trail is open year around, primarily used for walking, hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the wildflowers. Free parking available on campus. There is less than a 100-foot gain on the trail making it a good option for visitors acclimating to New Mexico’s elevation. If you are looking for a more vigorous workout, there is athletic equipment available next to the trail. They do not allow bikes, strollers, or dogs on the trails. Trail map
The People’s Flag
Easy 1/2-mile hike up to the large American flag that waves over Gallup. The trail is located on Hasler Valley Road, next to Michele's Readi-Mix. The flag installation was a collaborative effort between the City of Gallup, Gallup Land Partners, McKinley County, Veterans Helping Veterans, with donations from members of the community.
North Hogback Trail
The North Hogback Trail is a great short hike on the hogback ridge northeast of Gallup. The ridge provides magnificent panoramic views of Gallup and Pyramid Rock. A hogback or hog's back is a long, narrow ridge or a series of hills with a narrow crest and steep slopes on both flanks.
Take Hassler Valley Road east to the turnoff for the Gallup OHV Motocross Park. There is a sign, but it is easy to miss if you aren’t watching for it. Head north on the dirt road for about a mile. At the OHV Park, drive through the yellow gate on the north side of the motocross area and park at the base of the first hogback on the right. There is a sign at the trailhead.
1st Canyon Trail
East on Route 66 to Toltec Drive. Go right (south). The next major intersection is Church Rock Street. Make a left (east). Take Church Rock Street to Vanden Bosch Parkway and turn right (south). The road dead ends in a residential neighborhood. Parking is limited, though usually there are spots available.
Follow the trails towards the cliffs and pick your adventure into the canyon or up to the rim of the cliffs. The trail isn't a loop. In and out whether you choose the canyon or the rim.
5 Extra Outdoor Options
Dog Park | 801 S 2nd St
Dog Play Area • Picnic area • Water fountains
Fox Run Golf Course | 1109 Susan Ave
18-hole, driving course
Gallup Brickyard Bike Park | 610 E Hill St
Bike Trail • Parking
Gallup Skate Park | 308 E Highway 66, Downtown Gallup
Skate boarding • Roller blading Roller skating • Biking
OHV/ATV Park | Hasler Valley Road
500-acre, Off-Highway Vehicle Park
Need a hard copy of one of the trail maps?
Give our Visitor's Center a call at (505) 722-2228. We will email or mail you one for your trip!
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