Cibola National Forest
Cibola National Forest is a moderate 70+ miles off-road trail near Albuquerque, NM, best run April - November. The gear list marks All-terrain tires, 4WD with low range and Tow strap as required, and 2"+ lift kit and Skid plates as recommended. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
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Cibola National Forest wraps around Albuquerque in the Sandia and Manzano mountain ranges, providing urban-adjacent mountain wheeling. Forest roads climb from high desert grassland through piñon-juniper woodland to cool pine forests at 10,000 feet, offering dramatic elevation changes and city skyline views.
Fun Facts
Cibola refers to the mythical Seven Cities of Gold sought by Spanish conquistadors.
Sandia Peak at 10,678 feet offers views of over 11,000 square miles.
The Sandia Peak Tramway is the longest aerial tram in the Americas at 2.7 miles.
The Manzano Mountains contain ruins of 17th-century Spanish missions.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
🛡️ Protection
Closest campgrounds to Cibola National Forest:
- Capilla Peak · Torreon · 18 mi (straight-line)
- Sandia Casino · Albuquerque · 19 mi (straight-line)
- Red Canyon Campground · 24 mi (straight-line)
- Coronado Campground · Bernalillo · 27 mi (straight-line)
- Santa Ana Star Casino · Santa Ana Pueblo · 27 mi (straight-line)
- Coronado State Park · BERNALILLO · 27 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Albuquerque, NM
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.