Watermelon Loop in the Sandias (NM)

Bernalillo County, New Mexico, United States

21.1 miles (33.9 km) · 4,421 ft elevation gain · Loop · trail · Route

Watermelon Loop in the Sandias (NM) is a 21.1-mile loop route in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, United States, gaining 4,411 feet of elevation. The route follows a up-and-over elevation profile. The terrain breaks into 4 distinct sections including 2 significant climbs. The longest climb covers 6.0 miles gaining 2,778 feet at an average 8.5% grade. About 48% of the terrain is runnable, with significant hiking sections. The route opens with mixed terrain and finishes with a descent.

Route facts

Distance	21.1 mi (33.9 km)
Elevation gain	4,421 ft (1,348 m)
Average gain	210 ft per mile (40 m per km)
Longest climb	12.4 mi, 3,823 ft of gain
Steepest climb grade	22.5%
Runnable	47% of the route
Climbs / descents	2 climbs, 1 descents
Profile shape	Up, then down
Difficulty score	18.2 of 100
Surface	trail
Route shape	Loop
Type	Route

Grade breakdown

Grade band	Share of route
Flat	7%
Mild uphill	16%
Moderate uphill	19%
Steep uphill	15%
Mild downhill	13%
Moderate downhill	11%
Steep downhill	19%

Questions about Watermelon Loop in the Sandias (NM)

How much elevation gain does Watermelon Loop in the Sandias (NM) have?

Watermelon Loop in the Sandias (NM) has 4,421 ft (1,348 m) of elevation gain over 21.1 miles (33.9 km). That averages 210 ft of gain per mile.

How difficult is Watermelon Loop in the Sandias (NM)?

The difficulty score for Watermelon Loop in the Sandias (NM) is 18.2 of 100. That is harder than 88.5% of routes at a similar distance. About 47% of the route is runnable at typical trail effort; the rest is steep enough that most runners hike.

What is the longest climb on Watermelon Loop in the Sandias (NM)?

The longest climb on Watermelon Loop in the Sandias (NM) runs 12.4 miles (20.0 km) and gains 3,823 ft (1,165 m). The steepest climb grade on the route is 22.5%.