Albuquerque's Sandia Peak Tramway in the Winter Season

Albuquerque has the world's longest tramway at 2.7 miles in length. It is truly a spectacular site to see as you take the fifteen minute ride from the base of the mountain to the top. The view from the car-rail is breathtaking in any season but truly has a unique and beautiful view when traveled in the winter time.

The tram will take you over 10,000 feet into the air that allows you to view an enormous amount of scenery, from the mountain tops, natural landscape and Albuquerque off in the distance. One reason that makes the tram ride a special treat in the winter is all the snow. The Sandia Mountains are a part of the Rocky Mountains. They were named the Sandia Mountains due to the reflection the sunset gives in the evenings, giving it a radiant, pinkish hue that resembles a watermelon. Watermelon in Spanish translated to sandía. When it is winter time we lose the beautiful sandía glow, but gain glistening white peaks instead, which is also very beautiful to admire.

I've taken the tram in various seasons throughout my life. Each time I am amazed at both the scenic view and the invention of this incredible tram. Here you are, traveling along a thick cable holding a good-sized tram containing around 35 people. It can truly be an adrenaline rush for many when you combine the incredible height with the amazing view. The fun doesn't end there.

After your fifteen minute ride to the top of the mountain, you are greeted with several elegant restaurants serving a combination of authentic New Mexican foods and other American foods. Along with the restaurants is a gift shop and several platforms with tables for eating. The best part of these platforms is the absolutely breathtaking view of the city and mountainside! Words cannot describe how amazing it is to stand there, over 10,000 feet above Albuquerque and see what nature has created. Take a quarter so you can view through the view finder as well!

After taking in the scenery, take it upon yourself to take a hike along one of their various nature paths. If it is winter, it is probably way too dangerous to take the path along the mountain side as the snow and ice could be very slippery and that is an extremely steep fall, deadly even. Instead, opt for the nature paths that go through the trees. Be sure to dress warm as it can get pretty chilly with all that snow and possible wind chills. You will see a small skilift but it is never open. However, you can check into skiing at the Sandia Peak Ski Center instead.

Don't forget your camera!

Website: http://www.sandiapeak.com/index.php?page=tramway

Additional Webstie with virtual tour: http://www.virtualalbuquerque.com/VirtualABQ/SandiaPeakTramway/

Phone Number: (505) 242-9052

Address: 10 Tramway Loop NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

Hours of Operation: 9am-8pm