Life is cooler in the EM! The “East Mountains” is a name given to the collective region east of the Sandia Mountains near Albuquerque, NM. Often called “the greenside” for its abundance of trees and grassy plains, the region is home to several scenic byways and many beautiful backroads popular with mountain bikers and motorcycle riders.
Bordered roughly by the Hwy 14 corridor (Turquoise Trail) on the west and Hwy 41 corridor (Salt Missions Trail) on the east. The region is bisected by world-famous Historic Route 66 which runs east-west through the heart of the it connecting the incorporated municipalities of Tijeras (pop. 541), Edgewood (pop. 5,300), and Moriarty (pop. 1,910). In total, the region is home to more than 25,000 people.
The local mountains and plains are dotted with evidence of ancient Pueblo peoples, and later, Spaniards and land grant
s. Today, the area is largely inhabited by families who appreciate living amongst the beauty and wide open spaces, while maintaining proximity to larger cities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the East Mountains are an ideal place to live and play. There are an abundance of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding throughout the region, and hitching posts can still be found at a number of businesses. Youth activities include soccer, baseball, softball, basketball, martial arts, dance, music, 4H, scouts, and shooting sports. In the winter, downhill skiing is available at Sandia Peak and many community trails readily double as ungroomed cross country ski options.
The East Mountains are proud to be home to a number of “Best of NM” businesses. Award-winning restaurants: Pizza Barn (best pizza), Katrinah’s East Mountain G
rill (best breakfast burrito). A “World Class” brewery: Sierra Blanca Brewing Company has won multiple gold medals, and more for its unique brews. And, we are home to Single Action Shooting Society, the world-wide authority in the shooting sports of Cowboy Action Shooting and Wild Bunch Shooting. We are fortunate to have many more fantastic local restaurants, breweries, and activities for all tastes and interests — search our business directory by category to discover them all.
When it’s time for entertainment, we have no shortage of that either. There is a wildlife park and event center, several museums, art galleries, authentic Route 66 buildings and neon, equestrian arenas, and several rodeo grounds including the indoor Cyclone Center (large enough for a wide variety of events). World class shooting facilities are available at Founders Ranch, with additional outdoor and indoor ranges nearby. And, for those who love unique finds, explore our Trinkets & Treasures Trail, for a fun way to spend a day that’s different every time!
An abundance of annual events adds to the many ‘things to do’ including Cowboy Days, Route 66 Run, Rally & Rock, Oktoberfest, Bustin’ Clays tournament, Edgewood Celtic Festival, Pinto Bean Fiesta, and Punkin’ Chunkin’ — to name a few. See our Events Calendar for what’s happening.
The range of local services is impressive, and means there is little reason to go into Albuquerque — most everything you need is available here. Shopping options range from friendly, locally-owned businesses to national chains and brand-name auto dealerships. Medical, dental, physical therapy, and alternative medicine and wellness services are available here. Livestock, equestrian and veterinary services are ample, too.
Transportation repair services are offered by many qualified nd certified providers (full-service mechanics, RV repair, tires, oil change). There are even two airports: Moriarty Airport can accommodate small jets; and Sandia Airpark in Edgewood (accommodates small private aircraft) offers residential fly-in living where you can taxi to your doorstep.
Life here is good. The pace is slower and the neighborly vibe is people-to-people. Whether you’re visiting or putting down roots, there’s plenty to keep you busy or not — and that’s the beauty of life in the East Mountains!
