Rio Grande Bicycle Nature Tour of Albuquerque — 2-Hour Guided Old Town Ride
Pedal from Old Town Albuquerque onto the Rio Grande’s green corridor on a two-hour guided ride that mixes history, culture, and easy wildlife watching. Perfect for families and first-time cyclists, the tour highlights plazas, ponds, and riverside trails.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to fit your bike
Tours depart at 1pm sharp; arrive 15 minutes early to be sized and fitted for your bicycle and helmet.
Hydrate and layer
Bring a refillable water bottle and a light wind layer — river breezes can feel cooler than downtown.
Sun protection is critical
New Mexico sun is intense even on cool days: broad-brim hat under helmet, sunscreen, and UV sunglasses help.
Bring small binoculars
A compact pair of binoculars will magnify riverbank birds and make the Nature Center stops more rewarding.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paseo del Bosque’s quieter cottonwood groves—ask guides for the best short detour
- •Back lanes of Old Town where small murals and family-run workshops reveal local craftspeople
Wildlife
- •Great blue heron
- •Mule deer
Conservation Note
The Rio Grande corridor is managed for habitat restoration and water conservation—stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing nesting birds, and use provided trash disposal to protect riparian zones.
Albuquerque began as La Villa de Alburquerque in 1706; Old Town’s plaza and acequia system reflect Spanish colonial planning layered over Indigenous presence.
Photographer's Notes
- • Old Town Plaza facing San Felipe de Neri Church
- • Tingley Beach bridge over the Rio Grande
- • Paseo del Bosque cottonwood stands
What to Bring
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Protects feet on pedals and during brief dismounts onto gravel or boardwalks.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is crucial in the high desert climate; bottled water is provided but refills are useful.
Light windbreaker
Blocks cool river breezes in spring and provides a thin layer against changing conditions.
Compact binoculars
Helpful for birdwatching along the Rio Grande and at the Nature Center.
Common Questions
Where do we meet the tour?
Meet at Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals in Historic Old Town Albuquerque; look for the yellow-tire bike out front and arrive 15 minutes early to be fit to your bike.
Is the route flat or hilly?
The ride is largely flat along paved multi-use trails and riverfront paths with minimal elevation gain—good for casual cyclists and families.
Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are provided and required; guides will fit them before departure.
Can children participate?
Yes—children’s bikes and trailers are available; indicate ages and heights when booking so the operator can prepare appropriate equipment.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours are canceled for bad weather; the operator will notify you and provide a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours prior or if conditions make riding unsafe.
Will we see wildlife?
You may see riparian birds such as great blue herons and songbirds, and occasionally mammals like mule deer or coyotes near dawn or dusk.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for those comfortable pedaling for short, mixed-pace outings; basic cardio and balance are sufficient
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