The ticket says “World’s Longest Aerial Tramway.” This is how the Sandia Peak Tramway in Albuquerque, New Mexico has been known for. From the Visitor’s Center situated at 6,559 feet (1,999 m), it will take the tramway 15 minutes to ascend to the top elevation of 10,378 feet (3,163 m), for a total travel distance of 2.7 miles. The view from the tram is breathtaking. You will see Albuquerque and about 11,000 square miles (28,000 square kilometers) of the New Mexico countryside.
Prepare for a long queue.
My friend and I went there during the peak summer season. This means, we were in a very long queue just to get our tickets. The waiting in line (down the stairs) felt like forever! This is a view from below the long line.
City view.
The view of the city from the opposite side of the tramway.
It takes patience.
Yes, we were at a point of 45-minute waiting. But it actually took 1.5 hours because others before us came in groups, which entailed more time at the ticket counter.
The trip to the top.
A view from the waiting area. Approximately four trips leave every hour from the base and top departure stations. A guide accompanies each trip up the mountain to point out interesting tidbits.
Stand near the window.
When you are inside the tram, stand by the glass window. You don’t want to be stuck in the middle and see nothing down below.
Finally.
After 15 minutes, you will reach this observation deck.
Sunset at Sandia Peak.
Since we decided to visit at sundown, the desert skies produced a spectacular array of color!
There are walkways at the peak.
Take a photo.
You have just reached 10,378 ft above sea level.
It’s somewhere there — where you came from.
It can get chilly.
Most important, bring a jacket. It gets really cold at the top with the crazy wind.
Care for some fine dining at the peak?
Reserve seats at the High Finance Restaurant if you want to enjoy fine dining on the mountaintop.
A view of the city at night.
For $20 per person, the Sandia Peak Tramway is a must visit for anyone visiting Albuquerque. Don’t let the heights bother you. You will feel safe inside the tram.
Contact.
Address: 10 Tramway Loop NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122
Phone Number: 505-856-7325
See: Three-Day Travel Plan, Guide, and Schedule When Traveling To Albuquerque, New Mexico
Find your way.
See also: My other travel adventures.
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