Unser Boulevard Trail North

Unser Boulevard serves as one of the main north-south connections between the northern reaches of Albuquerque and the sprawling suburb of Rio Rancho, and the Unser Boulevard Trail North provides a useful sidepath trail that ensures cyclists and pedestrians are able to make use of the corridor as well. Stretching for over six miles along the side of the busy street, the trail offers a great recreational path for cyclists and joggers looking to get in some miles, with the asphalt surface varying from eight to ten feet in width.

The southern end of the trail begins in the Paradise Hills neighborhood of Albuquerque, with the trail picking up just down the road from the local park and community center. Heading north, you encounter the only significant gap along the length of the trail - crossing Irving Boulevard, there is no paved trail or sidewalk along the side of the road for a few hundred feet before the sidepath resumes. The trail continues along the east side of Unser Boulevard, passing through a number of commercial and residential areas as it enters into the community of Rio Rancho.

Due to the nature of the trail, there are very frequent road crossings along the route, and the quality of the pavement varies a good deal - some sections are pristine and smooth, while others have seen a bit more wear-and-tear (although the overall condition of the trail is quite good). Towards the northern end, the trail begins to head out into undeveloped stretches of Rio Rancho, a dramatic shift from the suburban homes and businesses that previously lined the trail. Currently, the sidepath comes to an end along Unser Boulevard just south of Montezuma Boulevard, with a large subdivision located nearby to the west.

Parking and Trail Access

No dedicated trail parking is available, although parking may be available on-street or at nearby businesses located along the trail. Be sure to follow any posted parking signs and regulations.