While collaborating with Brian Fletcher on my story concerning cycling in Albuquerque, we cobbled together a ride starting from the airport that would take in many of Albuquerque's tourist attractions. In the process, I realized that some cyclists might want to get to the University of New Mexico more quickly so I asked Brian about riding north from the airport on Girard Blvd. In response, Brian did some field research and reported the following:

"A better way to get to the University is to stay on Girard Blvd past Gibson. Although there is no bike lane, the traffic on Girard is very light. Girard Blvd is the easternmost edge of the campus. I recommend avoiding University blvd because there is no bike lane and the traffic is heavier.

I did try this out on my bike ride today and it is about 2-1/2 miles from the airport terminal to the University. Once you pass the golf course at Gibson, Girard becomes a residential area. I think Girard Blvd. is an excellent way to get from the airport to the city in general. I will be doing an entry on my blog about this. I even took a few pictures to give you an idea of what the route looks like."

From the University, the are a variety of bike trails, lanes and routes that lead to other areas of the city so this is an alternative for those that would rather avoid the South Valley. You can see them on this great interactive map suggesting routes to bicycle through Albuquerque.

Thanks again Brian for your help. I look forward to seeing those photos sometime soon.

LL