In 1977, the City of Albuquerque purchased approximately 167 acres in the north Rio Grande Valley to create a nature preserve with an outdoor recreation component. That work is still an ongoing effort by the City of Albuquerque Parks and Recreation Department’s Open Space Division. In 1982, over 38 acres of the property were devoted to establishing Rio Grande Nature Center State Park.

Guided hikes are offered on the last Friday of each month. Explore the Candelaria Nature Preserve where wildlife abounds and a major restoration effort is underway to convert farm fields to a mosaic of wildlife habitat. This free monthly tour is led by staff and volunteer experts. The tour begins at the entry gate located at the west end of Arbor Road, west of Rio Grande Blvd. Please dress for a walk on rough terrain and bring water. There are no restrooms or drinking water facilities available on site.

Hikes are free but registration is required. To sign up for this tour or for information about other educational events visit play.cabq.gov