Description
The landscapes of the east-facing Sandia Mountain front include landforms such as alluvial fans, stream terraces, pediments, corestone-dominated hillslopes, ephemeral streams and different soil types. Their genesis and evolution reflect the geologic evolution of the Rio Grande Rift, one of the world’s deepest continental rifts, as well as global climate changes. This is a moderately strenuous guided hike on selected trails in the Elena Gallegos Open Space.
There is limited shade. Wear sturdy boots, a broadbrimmed hat, sunscreen, and bring water. There is a $1 parking fee. Limited enrollment.
Les McFadden is a professor emeritus in the UNM Earth & Planetary Sciences (E&PS) Department. He received an MS & PhD in geosciences from the University of Arizona and a BA in anthropology from Stanford. He served as chair of the E&PS Department, and has received the Kirk Bryan Award for Excellence.