Doc Long Picnic Sites - A And B

About

Doc Long Picnic Sites is a day-use picnic area in the Sandia Mountains named for Dr. William Henry Long, a pioneering forest pathologist who conducted tree disease research in New Mexico from 1910 through the 1930s. The original pavilion was constructed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose base camp was located nearby on State Road 536. Today, two covered group pavilions (A and B) are available for reservation, each accommodating up to 30 people with picnic tables and grills. The site sits at 7,360 feet elevation in a dense forest of towering ponderosa pines. A playing field provides space for outdoor activities, and interpretive displays offer educational opportunities. Vault toilets are available, but there is no potable water as the water lines were retired in the mid-2000s. Visitors must bring their own charcoal or firewood for the grills. Trail access from Doc Long connects to Bill Spring Trail, Oso Corridor Trail, Faulty Trail, and a pathway to Sulphur and Cienega picnic sites. The Sandia Mountains are home to mule deer, black bear, Abert's squirrels, and red-tailed hawks. Overnight camping is not permitted at this location.

Directions

From Albuquerque, drive east on I-40 to Exit 175. Proceed north toward Cedar Crest on State Highway 14 approximately 6 miles to Scenic Byway 536. Go just over a mile west on Scenic Byway 536 to the picnic site. Look for signage on your left. Group pavilions are in the two covered areas adjacent to the road next to the small playing field.