Forest Road 39 – Sandia Crest East Side
Expert granite climbing to New Mexico's highest viewpoint
FR-39 attacks the Sandia Mountains from the desert side, climbing nearly 6,000 feet in 13 miles of increasingly technical terrain. The route starts innocently enough in the piñon and juniper foothills east of Albuquerque, but quickly turns serious as it climbs through limestone ledges and loose granite sections toward Sandia Crest. The final miles demand careful line selection through boulder fields and across exposed granite slabs where a wrong move means body damage or worse.
This is expert-level terrain requiring modified 4WDs with skid plates, aggressive tires, and low-range gearing. Recovery gear is mandatory—you will need it. Summer offers the best conditions, but afternoon thunderstorms can make the granite deadly slick. The payoff justifies the punishment: 360-degree views from the crest span from Colorado to Mexico on clear days. Only attempt this if you’ve got the skills and gear to handle genuine technical 4-wheeling. The easy way up is the western approach—this route is for those who want to earn their views the hard way.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 13 mi / 20.9 km |
| Duration | 6-8 hours |
| Max elevation (ft) | 10678 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with armor |
| Nearest town | Albuquerque, NM |
| Land manager | Cibola National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle modifications do I need for Forest Road 39?
You need heavy skid plates, rock sliders, and aggressive tires minimum. Stock vehicles will get destroyed on the granite slabs and exposed ledges.
Is Forest Road 39 open in winter?
No, it's typically closed November through April due to snow and ice at elevation. May through October is the safe window.
Do I need any permits to run Forest Road 39?
No permits required, but you're in Cibola National Forest so follow Leave No Trace principles. The road is free to use.
What's the hardest section of Forest Road 39?
The upper granite slabs around 9,000+ feet are brutal - steep climbs with serious exposure and body damage potential. Spotters recommended.
How much fuel should I bring for this trail?
Carry extra gas - the 13 miles takes 6-8 hours of technical crawling and you'll burn more fuel than normal. Plan for at least a half tank beyond what you'd normally use.