The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta attracts about 750,000 visitors each year, which means a whole lotta traffic! There’s nothing I hate more than sitting in traffic, and there’s nothing I love more than the balloon fiesta. I know I am not alone in that sentiment. Throw in a bunch of tired and cranky kids, and you’ve got yourself a headache brewing. So ditch the car and grab your bikes the next time you head to this magical event! I promise you’ll never want to go any other way again. Here are my five tips for biking to the balloon fiesta.
1. Park & Ride
No, I’m not talking about waiting in lines and hopping on a bus with other folks. To get to the balloon fiesta, you’ll want to take the AMAFCA North Diversion Channel Trail. There are a few different places to get onto the trail, but I have found the easiest way to get to the fiesta is by parking at the Los Ranchos/Journal Center Rail Runner Station. You can get to the balloon fiesta within 15-20 minutes (or 35 minutes when you have to stop once or twice because of your kids). When I tracked the mileage, it came out to a little under three miles one way. Once you arrive at the balloon fiesta, there is a FREE bike valet. Thank you to the many volunteers that keep a watchful eye over our precious bikes and trailers so that we can enjoy ourselves without any worries!
Pro tip: don’t forget to tip the valet volunteers.
2. Have Lights and Reflectors
You’ll still be leaving early to catch the mass ascension or you’ll be leaving late if you stay for the glow, and in both cases, you’ll be biking in the dark. It is extremely important to have the proper lights and reflectors for your bike. This includes headlights, tail lights, and rear reflectors. You won’t be able to see a darn thing without these and you’ll be risking the safety of yourself and others. This is a must!
3. Avoid Flat Tires
I would also recommend prepping your tires and tubes ahead of time using Slime Tire Sealant. The first year we biked in, we got so many goat heads which resulted in a few flat tires. That’s New Mexico for you! Ever since we have used Slime Sealant and we have not had any issues.
Pro tip: The bike valet has free patch kits and tire pumps for those S.O.S. moments. We have had to use the free patch kit because of the goat heads, and we will be forever grateful.
4. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Even though it is cold during the fall mornings at the fiesta, you’ll still want to pack plenty of water. You are exercising, right? Keep in mind having water at the ready when you head back to your car. It tends to warm up later in the morning, and you’ll be dying of thirst on your way back. While we’re at it, I’ll also suggest a snack bag. You may work up an appetite after that ride, and there will probably be long lines at the concession booths once you get in.
5. Wear Fewer Layers
You’ll be working up a sweat on your way to the event. I find that wearing a t-shirt under a warm jacket is enough for me. However, I cannot forget my cycling gloves. Those are a must to avoid frozen fingers! Honestly, this is going to be an individual preference (and of course, pay attention to the weather forecast), but I have found that I can definitely wear fewer layers if I bike in.
This isn’t a tip, but just a reminder to follow cycling etiquette. This includes:
- Paying attention to motor traffic. There are two areas where you will have to cross traffic. Make sure you are looking and listening for vehicles.
- Riding in the direction of traffic (simply, stay in the right lane unless to pass).
- Pass to the left and make sure you announce yourself. An audible, loud signal or a simple (and friendly), “passing on your left!” will do. This is for the safety of yourself and others. You don’t want to cause a collision that may result in injuries.
- Slow down and be prepared to stop. Even though you are avoiding motor traffic by biking in, there will still be heavier bike and foot traffic than normal. People can be unpredictable, so always stay attentive!
- If you need to stop, pull off the path.
If you are thinking about cycling to the balloon fiesta, but you’re on the fence, this is your sign to do it! If you didn’t even know this was an option, you’re welcome. It takes so much stress out of the day and allows for an added fun family activity to do together. Not only do you get exercise and fresh air, but you also skip the traffic and you save on parking fees. It’s totally worth it!
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ABQ Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
