Get ready for an exhilarating winter adventure at the 22nd annual Sandia Snowshoe Race on Saturday, January 24, 2026, in Sandia Park, NM. This popular 5K snowshoe classic invites participants to traverse the stunning, snow-covered trails of the Cibola National Forest, starting from the lower-level parking lot at Sandia Crest. The course is a scenic tour, winding along the Upper Switchback Trail and incorporating sections of the Service Road, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience with breathtaking mountain vistas. Runners can expect a 6-foot-wide trail corridor, often with excellent, consolidated snow coverage, though some "canted" (sloped) sections are characteristic of the Sandia Mountains at this elevation. A water station will be available at the Ellis Trailhead, approximately halfway through the course, to keep runners hydrated.

The Sandia Snowshoe Race, a cherished event presented by the Friends of the Sandia Mountains (FOSM) since 2001, is celebrated for its community spirit and its mission to get people outdoors while supporting trail preservation and maintenance. With registration limited to just 175 participants, this race often sells out, providing a more intimate and friendly atmosphere. Typical race day conditions in late January see highs around 52F and lows around 24F, with a low 2% chance of precipitation, promising crisp, invigorating air for your snowshoeing efforts. Beyond the natural beauty, runners can look forward to included refreshments and event swag, with cash prizes awarded to the top three male and female finishers, and gifts for age group winners.

Whether you're an elite snowshoe racer or looking for a unique winter challenge, the Sandia Snowshoe Race offers a memorable day on the mountain. Participants are required to bring their own snowshoes, and carpooling to Sandia Crest is highly encouraged due to limited parking. Join fellow outdoor enthusiasts for this fun-filled day and contribute to the vital work of preserving these beautiful trails.