Sandia Peak
Ride North America's longest aerial tramway 2.7 miles up Sandia Mountains for breathtaking views of Albuquerque and stunning sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Sandia Peak
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride North America's longest aerial tramway 2.7 miles up Sandia Mountains for breathtaking views of Albuquerque and stunning sunsets.
"The views were absolutely breathtakingly gorgeous! Once at the top, you can hike around at your own discretion."
Book tickets in advance
Especially for sunset rides, booking ahead saves time and guarantees your spot. :ticket:
Dress in layers
Temperatures drop significantly at 10,000 ft. Bring a jacket, even in summer! :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sandia Peak Tramway Ride
Base Station to Sandia Crest
Soar 2.7 miles up the Sandia Mountains on North America's longest aerial tramway. Breathtaking views await!
Panoramic Views from Sandia Crest
Sandia Crest
Witness stunning vistas of Albuquerque and the surrounding landscape from over 10,000 feet. Especially magical at sunset.
Kiwanis Cabin Trail
Sandia Crest
A short, scenic hike to a historic cabin offering incredible mountain and city panoramas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ticket & Dining Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book tickets in advance
Especially for sunset rides, booking ahead saves time and guarantees your spot. :ticket:
Dress in layers
Temperatures drop significantly at 10,000 ft. Bring a jacket, even in summer! :cloud:
Catch the sunset
The Sandia Mountains glow pink at sunset – a truly unforgettable sight. :sunriseovermountains:
Explore the trails
Short hikes at the crest offer amazing views and a chance to see fossils. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book tickets in advance
Especially for sunset rides, booking ahead saves time and guarantees your spot. :ticket:
Dress in layers
Temperatures drop significantly at 10,000 ft. Bring a jacket, even in summer! :cloud:
Catch the sunset
The Sandia Mountains glow pink at sunset – a truly unforgettable sight. :sunriseovermountains:
Explore the trails
Short hikes at the crest offer amazing views and a chance to see fossils. :hiking_boot:
Consider the ride down
Some visitors found the return tram ride crowded. Be prepared for close quarters. :people_hugging:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the spectacular, breathtaking views from the Sandia Peak Tramway and the crest, especially during sunset. The tram ride itself is described as smooth and scenic. However, some find the return tram ride can be uncomfortably crowded, and dining at the top is noted as being on the pricier side.
"a bit on the pricey side, but absolutely worth it. We went on a partially cloudy afternoon, and the shifting light made the scenery even more dramatic, with layers of mountains, sky, and city unfolding beneath us. The ride itself is smooth and scenic, and once at the top, the short trail along the ridge to the cabin was breathtaking — one of the highlights of the visit.
Do keep in mind that temperatures can drop quickly at dusk, even in the middle of summer, so bring an extra layer if you plan to linger for sunset."
Yunong Shi
"I enjoyed the 1st tram we took up as it was scenic and had an amazing view of the mountain range. The view at the top once you get up, the mountain was even better! My only complaint which makes me want to make this four stars or possibly three is on the way down. We were put like sardines into a tram where I had people elbowing me and up in my face. For the price, it shouldn’t be like that everything else in the staff was wonderful!"
A M
"My adult son and I went here when I visited nearby and it was THE best!! The tram runs people up and down to the top of the mountain every 15-20min up until around 6:30pm I believe. The ride up didn't take long at all and there was an employee riding up, giving the history of the area and the tram itself. The views were absolutely breathtakingly gorgeous! Once at the top, you can hike around at your own discretion. There's a beautiful ski lift around the back for the wintertime. There are also several trails. We did some light walking due to bear alert signs. There's a restaurant at the top as well. It's a bit on the pricey side. We were fortunate enough to catch two guys who were hang gliding at the very top of the peak! It was such an amazing experience! There's also a cute little gift shop at the base of the mountain."
Rachel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The tramway is located at 30 Tramway Road, Northeast Albuquerque, NM. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available at the base station. Many visitors use ride-sharing services as well.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the base station of the Sandia Peak Tramway.
While direct public transport to the tramway base is limited, you can take city buses to get closer to the area and then use a short taxi or ride-share to reach the destination.
The tram ride itself is approximately 15 minutes each way, covering 2.7 miles. +1
The tramway is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to check with the tramway directly for specific accessibility details regarding the base station and the crest area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are around $34 for adults, but prices can vary. It's recommended to check the official Sandia Peak Tramway website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the base station. However, booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times like sunset, to avoid disappointment.
The tramway typically operates from 9 AM to 8 PM, but hours can vary seasonally. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date operating schedule.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or military personnel. It's best to inquire directly with the tramway or check their website for current offers.
Your ticket typically includes a round-trip ride on the tramway. Access to hiking trails and the restaurant at the crest are separate.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
At Sandia Crest, you can enjoy panoramic views, hike short trails like the Kiwanis Cabin Trail, and in winter, there's a ski area. There's also a restaurant and gift shop.
Yes, there are several hiking trails at Sandia Crest, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous routes like the La Luz Trail. Be aware of any posted alerts, such as bear advisories.
The weather at Sandia Peak can change rapidly. It's often significantly cooler than in Albuquerque, so bringing layers is essential, especially for sunset visits.
Some visitors have reported seeing fossils on nearby trails at the top of Sandia Peak.
Absolutely! The panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset, offer incredible photographic opportunities. The shifting light can create dramatic scenery. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a restaurant at the top, Ten 3, offering dining with a view. However, it can be pricey, and some visitors suggest packing snacks or eating in Albuquerque.
Yes, the restaurant at the top of Sandia Peak is generally considered to be on the pricier side.
While not explicitly stated, it's common practice to bring snacks for hikes. For full meals, dining at the on-site restaurant is the primary option.
Ten 3 restaurant offers a contemporary American menu with an emphasis on local ingredients and stunning views.
There are no designated picnic areas mentioned, but enjoying snacks on a trail or at a viewpoint is possible.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is incredibly popular for its 'pink glow' and dramatic light. Sunrise also offers beautiful, less crowded opportunities. Midday can be harsh but still offers expansive views. +2
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant shots. Don't forget a tripod for low-light sunset shots. :camerawithflash:
The viewing areas at Sandia Crest, the Kiwanis Cabin, and along the ridge trails offer excellent vantage points. The tram car itself provides unique perspectives during the ride.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national forests and near tramways for safety and environmental reasons. Always check current regulations before flying. :noentrysign:
The Sandia Mountains are known for their 'pink glow' at sunset, a phenomenon caused by the way the light reflects off the mountain's minerals. It creates a stunning, watermelon-like hue.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks, as dining at the top can be pricey, and kids might appreciate familiar treats. For a more extended visit, explore the various trails at Sandia Crest, keeping an eye out for interesting rocks or potential fossil sightings.
💰 Budget Travelers
The tram ride is the main expense, so if budget is a major concern, weigh the cost against the unique experience it offers. 💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The breathtaking views, the crisp mountain air, and the magical 'pink glow' create an unforgettable atmosphere. The tram ride itself, with its sweeping views, can also be a romantic experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Tramway Experience
The 2.7-mile journey takes you from the base station in Albuquerque up to Sandia Crest, over 10,000 feet above sea level. The 15-minute ride is a smooth ascent, offering increasingly dramatic panoramic views of the city, the surrounding desert, and the rugged Sandia Mountains. During the ride, an employee often shares historical facts about the area and the tram itself, adding an educational layer to the scenic journey.
For those with a fear of heights, the tram ride is generally smooth, but the sheer scale of the ascent and the views can be intense. However, the experience is widely considered worth it for the unparalleled scenery.
Exploring Sandia Crest
It's a perfect spot for photos and to simply soak in the grandeur of the landscape. Beyond the cabin, various hiking trails branch out from the crest, catering to different fitness levels. The famous La Luz Trail is a challenging option for experienced hikers, but even shorter, more accessible paths provide opportunities to explore the mountain's natural beauty.
Visitors have noted seeing fossils on some of these trails, adding an element of discovery to the exploration. For winter visitors, Sandia Peak transforms into a ski resort, offering a different kind of mountain experience. Even if you're not skiing, the snowy landscapes can be beautiful. The crest also provides an ideal location to witness the famous 'pink glow' of the Sandia Mountains at sunset, a truly magical phenomenon.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Sandia Peak
Capturing this requires planning, as sunset rides are popular and can be crowded. Beyond sunset, sunrise also offers stunning light and fewer crowds, making it an excellent time for photography.
A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing distant features. For low-light conditions, especially during sunset or sunrise, a tripod is highly recommended to ensure sharp, clear images. Key photographic spots include the general viewing areas at the crest, the Kiwanis Cabin with its unique architecture and views, and along the various hiking trails that offer different perspectives. Even the tram car itself provides a unique vantage point for capturing the ascent and descent.
Remember to dress in layers, as you might be waiting for the perfect light, and the temperatures can drop quickly. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit