Doc Long Picnic Area

Great mountain picnic area in the Cibola National Forest. On the back side of the Sandia Mountain Range. About 15 miles from Albuquerque and just a few miles from the Sandia ski area. Just a hop, skip and a jump from downtown.
Group shelters, picnic tables, hiking trails. Great place for a group or family outdoor event in the summer or early fall. Restrooms are available. Parking fee is just $ 3.
I recently was invited to a birthday party for a 4 year old at Doc Long’s. Lots of families with 2 — 6 year old children. Each of the little ones loved the little «adventures» and trails. Their appetites seemed to increase with the cool mountain air. .. so did mine. Topped off with birthday cake and homemade apple pie.
The elevation is 7,500′ so be sure you bring appropriate layers. It can get chilly even in the sun during Indian Summer in the pine trees. Oh, but does it smell fresh and crisp and clean.
Also check the web site for Fire Restrictions that might be in effect. Currently the restrictions have been lifted in the Cibola National Forest, so you can cook your hamburgers & hotdogs. Yum! Nothing tastes better than food cooked outdoors, paired with a hike in the woods.
There are three loop trails. Hiking at its best. Take your four legged friends. They will completely enjoy a day out in such a gorgeous setting. Pine trees, of course, are still green, but everything else is turning blazing fall colors.