Point 9627 is one of four ranked high points along the Sandia Crest. It is a seldom visited summit since there is no direct trail to the summit although the Crest Trail comes close. As with many points along the Crest views of the city and Sandia Mountains are spectacular.

The summit of Point 9627

New Mexico Rank: 309
Prominence: 367'
Quadrangle: Sandia Crest

Rank and Prominence information from
Lists of John

Getting There

For Tree Springs and Cienega Trails: Go east on I-40 to exit 175 (Tierjas). From the exit ramp turn left (north) and go under the highway continuing north on Rt 14. Follow Rt 14 north for approximately 6 miles and turn left (west) onto Rt 536. Continue up Rt 536 to either the Cienega Canyon Trail Head or the Tree Springs Trail Head. Both have signs along the road that will help you identify the correct trailhead.

For Pino Trail: From the center of Albuquerque travel East on I-40 to exit 167 (Tramway Blvd) From the exit ramp turn left (north) and go under the highway continuing on Tramway to Simms Park Rd just North of Academy Rd. Turn right onto Simms Park Rd and follow it to the parking area.

Route Overviews

Point 9627 Routes

All routes begin on well established trails but require a small amout of route finding and bushwhacking at the very top. The Tree Springs Trail requires the least elevation gain so could be considered the easiest. The Pino Trail is the only route that begins on the west side of the mountains.

Tree Springs Trail: This follows a very well defined trail to the Crest trail. Once on the Crest trail there are a few easy ups and downs. The hardest part is deciding where to leave the trail and bushwhack to the summit. This final portion is very easy and short.

Cienega Trail: A much steeper trail than the Tree Springs Trail this trail intersects the Crest trail south of the summit. Again a few easy ups and downs until leaving the trail.

Pino Trail: A longer and steeper approach than the other two trails but the only trail beginning on the west side of the mountain. As with the Cienega trail this trail intersects the Crest trail south of the summit and requires the same short bushwhack.

Views from the summit:

Looking South

Looking North

Red Tape

There is a $3 per car fee to park the trailhead. Payment envelopes and stations can be located in the parking area as well.

Camping

Point 9627 lies within the Cibola National Forest. Camping in the Cibola National Forest is allowed however, fires are prohibited. There are no established campgrounds.

External Links

Local weather: Albuquerque
Local Search and Resuce Team: Cibola SAR
Cibola National Forest - Sandia Ranger District