Located on the central Rio Grande flyway, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is winter home to Canada geese, sandhill cranes, and various species of ducks and other waterfowl. A trail system along the river, classrooms, and an extensive library with viewing areas add to this valuable public resource.

Bountiful Bosque
The bosque, a cottonwood-covered river bottom, features two miles of nature trails, which wind through partially wooded areas to open sand flats alongside the Rio Grande.

During the fall and winter months, sandhill cranes, Canada geese, and several types of ducks take advantage of this peaceful pitstop. Occasionally, visitors also can spot secretive residents like coyotes, raccoons, or beaver.

Special Offerings
The Nature Center offers naturalist-led hikes, bosque exploration, exhibits, hands-on activities, teacher workshops, seasonal classes and special events for visitors of all ages.

A Room With a View
A highlight of the Nature Center is its glass-walled library, which provides a unique opportunity to view bosque birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. A speaker system transmits the real sounds of pond life into the room.

Getting There
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is at the west end of Candelaria Road NW. From I-40 take exit 157A onto Rio Grande Boulevard north for three blocks, and turn left onto Candelaria Road; from I-25 take exit 227 (Frontage Road) and turn right onto Candelaria Road. Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is owned by the City of Albuquerque, but managed by New Mexico State Parks as a city-state collaboration.