About this place

Overview Situated along the Sandia Crest Scenic Byway 536, at a cool 9,200 ft of elevation, is the large and often shaded Nine Mile Picnic Ground. Newly renovated to address maintenance needs, the picnic area now offers a combination of single, double, and group picnic sites, vault toilets, hardened walkways, grills, serving tables, information boards, and access to near by trails. Surrounded by aspen, spruce, and fir trees, this forested site offers rest and relaxation conveniently along the Byway. Parking at Nine Mile Picnic Ground is subject to the standard amenity fee. All picnic sites are first come, first served. Follow all rules and regulations. Please remember to take extra care to "Leave no trace" when you visit your public lands. There is no overnight camping at Nine Mile.Recreation Nine Mile Picnic Ground is perfect for a relaxing picnic, with wildlife viewing opportunities, or access to a number of near by trails, including the popular Challenge Trail #233. Facilities Each picnic site has tables and a grill. There is a combination of single, double, and group picnic sites all available on a first come, first served basis.Nine Mile Picnic Ground includes two vault toilets, information boards, bear safe trash receptacles, hardened walkways, and accessible parking. Natural Features The area is heavily wooded with aspen, spruce, and fir, with a mixture of level and hilly ground. Nearby Attractions Nine Mile Picnic Ground is located along the 536 Sandia Crest Scenic Byway. Also along the Scenic Byway are a number of Forest Service picnic grounds and trailheads as well as the Sandia Crest area which includes the Sandia Peak aerial tramway. Below, along the Byway, is also the Sandia Peak Ski Area.