Nine Mile Picnic Site

Situated along the Sandia Crest Scenic Byway 536, at a cool 9,200 feet of elevation, is the large and often shaded Nine Mile Picnic Ground. Newly renovated to address maintenance needs, the picnic area now offers a combination of single, double and group picnic sites, all available on a first come, first served basis. Parking at Nine Mile Picnic Ground is subject to the standard amenity fee. Each picnic site has tables and a grill. Nine Mile Picnic Ground also includes two vault toilets, serving tables, information boards, bear safe trash receptacles, hardened walkways and accessible parking, along with access to nearby trails. There is no overnight camping at Nine Mile. Surrounded by aspen, spruce and fir trees over a mixture of level and hilly ground, this forested site offers rest and relaxation conveniently along the Byway. It is perfect for a relaxing picnic, with wildlife viewing opportunities and access to a number of nearby trails, including the popular Challenge Trail #233. Please remember to take extra care to leave no trace when you visit your public lands. Also along the Scenic Byway are a number of Forest Service picnic grounds and trailheads, as well as the Sandia Crest area, which includes the Sandia Peak aerial tramway. Below, along the Byway, is the Sandia Peak Ski Area.