Tingley Beach







One thing I have always loved about any city are the public open spaces. No matter how developed an area becomes the fact that there are still parks, and walking trails in the heart of the city is a nice escape from the urban environment. So, in downtown Albuquerque near the Bio Park it was great to see an open space that ran right along the Rio Grande. With ample walking trails, a wide variety of sculptures around, and a pond to sit and relax by this place offers a little bit to everybody. Even though it took me awhile to visit after moving here the drive to Tingley Beach was worth the experience. 

Driving up I was shocked how close it was to Route 66 and thought that the noise from the road would be audible from the walking paths. When you first pull up there is a small pond with benches all around it, and more ducks than you can see. Heading towards the walking paths there are beautiful sculptures surrounded by various plants, and flowers. Once you get to the walking paths there are a couple of options for guests. If you don’t feel like walking, there are benches on a dock that just allow you to relax and enjoy the sights of the river. When it comes to walking though guests can choose to go right or left. 

I chose to go left, mostly because going right the main view was of Central, and I did not want to stare at traffic. So, in going left it was a total escape to nature. The trail was well shaded, and all around you could hear birds chirping, the lizards running around, and the gentle current of the river in the short distance. Occasionally the trail would cut off and allow you to be right on the edge of the river. Contrary to what I thought when I first arrived the sounds of traffic from Central was nonexistent, making this a true escape into nature. The other nice thing I encountered is that even when there are a lot of people it never felt crowded. Most of the time I was alone on the trail, seeing other people few and far between. It can also be as long or as short as you feel like as there is plenty of opportunity to turn around.  

The question I always ask is would I come here again? Yes, and this is a place that could potentially become a regular place I go to. Even on the hottest day the shade was perfect, and it never felt too hot. With so many trees watching how this place changes with each season will be fun to get to experience firsthand. Last, I can’t wait to go back, and bring my dog with me knowing she will have a blast. Even after visiting I still can’t believe such a secluded nature preserve exists surrounded by such an urban environment. It’s even harder to believe that this place has been around for almost 100 years, and with the feeling of such an urban oasis I hope it continues to be around for years to come. 

To see photos of my adventures follow me on Instagram @the_nm_tx or tag me using #thenmtx
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