Sandia Crest Recreation Area to Close for two Years

SANDIA CREST. — A popular mountaintop destination in central New Mexico will close to the public for roughly two and a half years beginning this spring to accommodate major infrastructure renovations and fire mitigation efforts.

Federal land managers announced that the Sandia Crest Recreation Area, located within the Cibola National Forest, is slated for a prolonged shutdown starting around April 1 and lasting through autumn 2027.

Heavy equipment operations will prompt localized barricades along state Route 536, restricting tourist entry to summit pathways and the primary upper parking sector near Kiwanis Cabin. However, operations at the nearby aerial tramway and its adjacent peak-top dining establishment will continue uninterrupted.

A primary driver of the lengthy closure is a fire prevention initiative dubbed the “Switchback” endeavor. Crews will clear away deceased timber and reduce dense brush along the mountain’s highest traffic corridors. This aggressive clearing aims to shield vital broadcast and communication antennas situated at the summit from potential blazes.

Additionally, contractors will tear down a mid-century structure formerly utilized as a privately run eatery and souvenir shop. The vacant building, shuttered since late 2021, will make way for modernized upgrades. Ranger district officials envision transforming that footprint into landscaped pathways, shaded observation spots, educational displays, and potentially a designated zone for mobile food vendors.

The broader summit complex is also earmarked for a $3.6 million facelift, financed by the 2020 Great American Outdoors Act. Decades of harsh alpine weather have significantly degraded the current three-tiered parking structure and viewing platforms, which were last overhauled roughly 30 years ago. Planners intend to resurface the driving areas while constructing modernized rest facilities, reinforced guardrails, fresh pedestrian staircases, and an updated scenic overlook.

While the summit construction progresses, forestry authorities are encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to seek out alternative hiking and nature spots throughout the surrounding public lands.