Sandia Peak Tramway

The Sandia Peak Tramway is a must-do, even for islanders like us who are used to jaw-dropping views. We booked our tickets online--super easy--and loved the flexibility of their wide arrival window. On a snowy day, we hopped on the tram, and to our surprise, it was almost empty, making the experience feel private and extra special.Our tram driver doubled as a fantastic narrator, sharing fascinating details about the tram's construction and history as we ascended. The ride up was quick but packed with stunning scenery, from rugged cliffs to snow-covered trees that looked like they belonged in a postcard.At the top, we found a great restaurant to warm up and refuel, but the real highlight was exploring the snowy wonderland. We wandered, admired the views, and just soaked in the magic of being so high up. The ride down was just as entertaining, with our guide pointing out new details we missed the first time.For us Hawaiians, trading ocean views for snowy peaks was unforgettable. The Sandia Peak Tramway delivers a unique, scenic adventure that's as much about the journey as it is the destination. Aloha, Sandia Peak--you blew us away!

Amazing views of Albuquerque and fun to see the terrain of the mountains up close. A bit harrowing if you hit unexpected heavy winds like we did, coming to a complete stop on our way up while swinging over a canyon 1000 feet below. Gulp. Even on a random Monday, we cooled our heels for a solid 40 minutes before boarding both directions. I recommend visiting on a weekday if at all possible to avoid long waits that would make this outing significantly less enjoyable.

I really really hope this would be a highlight of my Albuquerque trip. We were on a road trip; driving all around NM and half of AZ. We just selected places to visit, eat, explore, etc. Therefore, we didn't wanna buy online tickets because we didn't know exactly what time we would arrive. We didn't mind waiting in line anyway. In the end, we ended up being there on Saturday around 4 pm. The wait line looked okay, -not too bad. We also didn't notice any line or sign for people who purchased their tickets online. Maybe it was just one line for everyone?? We waited more than an hour in the line. When the line moves they take lots of people in. Once we got in the group we went upstairs. It seems like who already purchased and who didn't go with the same line. We bought our tickets right there and got $10 off each ticket with City Light Flights (arrive between 4pm-8pm) deal.I didn't enjoy the tram neither going up or down. Why?? Because I am short (4'11") Everyone stays standing inside the tram (no seats) It's crowded. if you are short and not the first 10 people in the line then forget about enjoying the full view. What I saw between the heads and shoulders it was good, but I got tired of going on tiptoes. They kept the windows open. So it made going up cold. Going down was much better even though the windows were still open. The staff member, Brian or Brandon (I'm sorry I forgot his name), was so great and funny, he made lots of recommendations and jokes during the 15-mins one-way trip. At least I got some entertainment.The top was so cold and snowy. Ten 3 was located right there with a perfect view. The restaurant was busy, and had a line but the bar sitting area had lots of spots available if you were a small group. My husband offered to come back the next day to see during the day as well. But, I refused it. The mean thing was for me to see the view from inside the tram. However, seems like I have a very little chance for that. So, no thank you.

This experience wasn't everything I hoped it would be. We planned to ride the tram earlier in the week to see the sunset and city lights, but it was closed. Then we planned to drive to the summit instead, but an unseasonable snow storm made that a no-go. If you want to ride the tram and/or are planning your day around this activity, go to their website in advance to make sure the tram is running and there is availability during your planned visit. You purchase the tickets online. Note that they do close the tram if there are high winds.We ended up going on the afternoon we flew out of Albuquerque and for the cost ($76 for two adults when you include taxes and ground fees), I don't think it was worth it. The highlight was probably our drive to the tram where there were a herd of buffalo grazing. That and the vintage ski chairs at the bottom were fun to see.Fortunately, we didn't have much of a wait to board on either end and the tram operator on the way up was chatty and engaging. Not so much with the younger operator on the way down. I didn't do my research and was surprised there was no seating in the tram, so you are smushed up with other visitors for the ride. What was cool was watching a woman (older than me) ride on top of the tram. Apparently they do this three times a day to check the cables. Kudos to you!On top there was very little to do if you weren't going to the fine dining restaurant, TEN 3, or the casual Lounge at the Bar. The Gift Shop is at the bottom of the hill. So you take the 15 minute ride up to the top (10,378 feet) and walk on the red deck to look one way at the Sangre De Cristo Mountains and the other way towards the ski runs. On one side there is a crude binocular of sorts that shows you different sites, but then...I think this would be a better experience if you are a hiker, skier, or enjoying a fancy sunset dinner at TEN 3. Basically, if the tram is part of a larger activity or experience. If you are just going for the view, we had so many magnificent sights driving around the state that this didn't seem worth the effort and expense.

Great view and experience! We bought our tickets online as they ask and you can see the available spots for the time window you are interested in. The tram gets packed at times so be aware - it takes @15 minutes up or down. The temp if @30 degrees colder up top.There are restrooms at the base and top!They had gotten 3 ' of snow 2 days before so brrrr but beautiful.We did have drinks and a snack at Ten3

A great attraction in the Albuquerque area. I learned about it through an advertisement at the airport. It was a relatively quick stop on our way back to the airport. And having a pet won't stop you as they can accommodate them (see pictures). The staff is friendly and the facilities are nice. Some of the narrators could look more professional (like our operator on the way back).A great experience, and for all ages, in New Mexico!

I went to the tramway on a lark after work. Tickets were immediately available, and I didn't have to wait more than 5 minutes for an outbound tram. The staff was friendly and helpful, making the ride entertaining and informative, giving history and trivia tidbits on both legs of the trip. The views from the top are spectacular, with a view of more than 30,000 square miles of the high desert and panoramic scenes of both sides of the mountain. Next trip, I will go after sunset, just to get that view.

We went on a Monday at 3:00. It wasn't super crowded but the skiing wasn't open. We were lucky to be at the front of the line and able to get a window spot. The really packed people in do if you are at the back of the line you have a center spot on the tram and if short, no view. The ride takes 15 minutes and the driver commentates with some information and humor. At the top you can enjoy many different viewpoints. The restaurant TEN 3 is a bit pricy but does have great views.

Still a great attraction, with a nice ride up the tramway to the top of Sandia Peak.However, there's a lot of room for improvement here. A few things to note:1. The price has gone up to $34 round trip.2. There are lines set up outside under the shade, but the line blocks the entrance to the ski museum. 3. The gift shop prices are inflated even compared to other local gift shops in tourist areas, including old town. Not a good thing to be a leader in.Take the tram, but don't buy anything.

Already planning our next visit up Sandia! Pretty views, fun hikes, and a nice restaurant to stop at for coffee/tea and warm up.