Picture this: It’s golden hour in Albuquerque. You arrive to the base of the Sandia Peak Tramway and look through the gift shop at the cutest New Mexican memorabilia. When your time comes, you board a tram car and begin your journey up the Sandia Mountains. Facing west, you watch a beautiful pink, orange and gold sunset while the city lights in Albuquerque begin to shine. You look east and find yourself in the mountains, going through four different climate zones, each with unique flora and fauna. And just when you thought the panoramic view from the tram car was the best part, you de-board at the summit and get to breathe in that crisp mountain air while sipping a hot chocolate and overlooking the Land of Enchantment.

The Sandia Peak Tramway is a must-visit for any UNM student, and it’s the perfect place to bring your visitors to show off your college city. The tram climbs nearly four thousand feet (in just 15 minutes) and allows you to see an 11-thousand-square-mile expanse, which is roughly 10% of New Mexico’s total land area. Add in The Homestead Café at the base or Ten 3 at the summit and you’ve got an unforgettable activity.

There are a few ways you can “do” the Sandia Peak Tramway:

• For your viewing pleasure: Purchase a round-trip tram ticket to enjoy the views during the ride and to wander the observation decks at the summit. Bring a camera to take the most scenic pictures with your fellow Lobos.
• For adventurous Lobos: Purchase a one-way tram ticket to hike up to the summit and ride the tram down, or to ride the tram up to the summit and hike down. Or you could purchase a round-trip ticket to ride up, hike and ride back down. Be sure to stay informed about Cibola National Forest’s closures, trails, and safety information.
• For dining at the summit: Visit Ten 3, a dining experience 10,300 feet above sea level. If you want to splurge (maybe after passing your finals), you can purchase a ride and dine package. There are also options for casual dining or fine dining as well as a menu of to-go beverages.

HOURS:

Tram & Gift Shop

• Wed-Mon 9:00 am – 8:00 pm (uphill), last passenger Tram down the mountain at 10 pm
• Tues – Closed

TEN 3 Restaurant

•  Casual Dining
  • Thur – Mon 10:30 am – 7:00 pm (last seating)
• Fine Dining
  • Thur – Mon 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm (last seating)
• Tues & Wed — Closed

Photos by Avery Miritello and Faye Elmore

Article by Faye Elmore

Sandia Peak Tramway