Sandia Peak Tramway

The Longest Aerial Tramway In North America, Opened 1966; 2.7 Miles From The Desert Floor To A 10,378 Foot Terminal On The Sandia Crest Ridge, With The World'S Third Longest Single Span Between Towers · Albuquerque, New Mexico

The Sandia Peak Tramway climbs 2.7 miles from the northeast edge of Albuquerque to a terminal at 10,378 feet on the Sandia Crest ridge, which makes it the longest aerial tramway in North America, and the span between its second tower and the top station is among the longest clear spans anywhere. It opened in 1966 after the towers were built with materials flown in by helicopter, because there was no way to get them up there otherwise. The ride takes about fifteen minutes and climbs nearly 4,000 feet, passing over terrain that has no road and no trail underneath it, including a section of canyon where the cars hang a long way above anything. At the top there is a restaurant, an observation deck and access onto the Sandia Crest trails and, in winter, the back side of the Sandia Peak ski area. On a clear day you can see about 11,000 square miles of New Mexico from up there. High wind shuts the tram at short notice and does so often, which is the one thing worth checking before driving across the city for it.

30 Tramway Road NE, Albuquerque, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87122, United States

Runs daily most of the year from late morning to late evening, with longer hours in summer and reduced hours in spring and autumn. There is usually a maintenance closure of a week or two in spring and again in autumn, announced in advance. High wind closes the tram at short notice and it happens regularly, particularly in spring afternoons. Sunset rides are the busiest and the last car down is strictly enforced.

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