Capulin Spring Picnic Site

Capulin Spring is a well-loved recreation spot that accommodates fifty people. The picnic site is surrounded by heavily wooded land that affords shade to escape the heat of the day. The spring runs year-round and is a much visited spot by birders, especially in the dry season, because thirsty birds flock here for a nice, cool drink of water. Look for the big log and you will find beautiful birds of all types, sizes and colors — remember to bring your camera. The sheltered area is a replica of a mid-1930s Civilian Conservation Corps design. The CCC has a rich history and lasting presence throughout the Sandias, and in their honor visitors are asked to take extra care to "leave no trace." There is no overnight camping at Capulin Spring. The site includes a group picnic shelter, six accessible picnic tables, food prep and serving tables, and two large pedestal charcoal grills. The picnic pad, pathways and parking area are paved and accessible. Each reservation comes with ten day use parking passes, which should be picked up beforehand at the Sandia Ranger Station, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Water, electricity, firewood and charcoal are not available at the site. Accessible vault toilets and bear-proof trash receptacles are provided. Additional dispersed picnic areas nearby are first come, first served; each accommodates a small family group, has no covering, and provides tables and grills. The Capulin Peak Trail starts at the Capulin Snow Play Area parking lot and runs about .6 miles to the summit with only 150 feet of elevation gain. It is shady for the most part, but the final leg is rocky with lots of scrub brush; just below the summit on the main trail are the ruins of an old mining shack and mining pit. Another option is the Capulin Spring trail, a short walk down the hill on the service road and a popular location for bird watching and photography. These trails are suitable for children and adults alike. Capulin Spring is located two miles above Sandia Peak Ski Area at an elevation of 8,740 feet, on hilly ground heavily wooded around the perimeter, with a year-round spring running through it. The Sandias are home to mule deer, black bear, mountain lions and many other species of wildlife and birds, including golden eagles often seen soaring overhead. It is a short trip up Scenic Byway 536 to the Sandia Crest for a magnificent view of Albuquerque and the surrounding area. The Kiwanis Cabin, built by the CCC in the 1930s, lies south of the Crest and can be seen from the observation deck. The Peak area provides two launch pads for hang gliding, popular during summer months, and on summer weekends the Sandia Peak Ski Area lift runs to the top, where the Sandia Tram and a restaurant are perched.