Albuquerque is popular for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and the shooting of Breaking Bad, many people are not aware of the fact that it has the longest aerial tramway in North America. When you are in New Mexico’s largest city, you can’t miss out the Sandia Peak Tram, which is a must-see in every tourist’s list.
When you arrive at the Sandia Peak Tramway, no need to waste time in buying a ticket; instead get ready for the most memorable ride of your life. The cable car can easily carry up to 50 people and travel thousands of feet above to reach the Observation Deck.
Few Facts about the tramway:
- The ride to the top takes about 14 minutes
- Over 2.7 miles of cable is traveled
- The Observation Deck is at an elevation of 10,378 feet
- You will pass four climate zones while going on the trip
- It took two years to complete the tramway and it was finally finished in 1966.
- The total expense incurred was $2 million dollars
Tips to remember while visiting the Sandia Peak Tram in Albuquerque, New Mexico:
- Dress warmly: There can be up to a 30-degree difference at the top
- Reach the start point early: It will help you in avoiding long waiting lines for the Tram
- What to do: Enjoy hiking, trekking, backpacking as offered by several activity centers. So, keep extra time in hand.
- Don’t miss Sandiago’s Mexican Grill: It is a restaurant is located at the base of the Tram and enables scenic views of the city
- High Finance Restaurant: It is located at the top of Sandia Peak and gives fantastic views while you have food. It’s suggested to make prior reservations to avoid any hassle.
- Weather: Before making any plans, call the official website or check it to know whether it’s open or closed. At times due to heavy winds, they keep it close.
As soon as the tram starts, you will see one tower and might think this is it, but wait, that’s just the starting of your trip. You are actually climbing upward and soon you will reach another tower. After that point, you will see the end where you are free to explore on your own. The scariest part is not just the height, but the way tram reaches the station by getting bumped by two large rubber pieces on the side.
Once out of the tram you can check out some of the most stunning views that you have ever experienced. Enjoy the panoramic view spread over 11,000 square mile of the eastern edge of Albuquerque, NM. At the top, the temperature will be way low and cool; you may experience chilly winds, which you surely will enjoy.
On top, you will find a restaurant to eat and drink the local as well as other mouth watering dishes. People interested in ski will find a ski area, take a chairlift and explore the views of the eastern side of the mountain.
After checking out the mountain, you return to the station and make our way back down. Coming down won’t be that scary as you will be mesmerized by the beauty and won’t even realize when the trip ended.
