Sandia Mountains

The Sandia Mountains lie to the east of Albuquerque. Named after the Spanish word for watermelon, the Sandias turn gorgeous shades of pink when the sun sets on the city. The high point of the mountains, the Sandia Crest, lies at 10,678 feet in elevation. Albuquerque is about 4,500 feet below that. The Sandias offer year-round outdoor activities to take part in, including hiking, skiing and the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.

Visiting the Sandia Mountains

The Sandia Mountains are accessible on all sides, with many hiking trails branching off from the base. To reach the top of the mountains, take a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway on the west side, or drive up the Sandia Crest Highway. Temperatures at the top of the mountain tend to be about 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than the temperature in Albuquerque. Temperatures can also change quickly, so be prepared with layers when visiting. Albuquerque has many places to stay that are near the Sandias. Sunset Sky Looking Out Over the Sandia Mountains

Hiking in the Sandia Mountains

One of the most popular hiking trails is the La Luz trail, which runs from the bottom of the mountain to the top. This is a very challenging trail that can become obstructed by snow in the winter months, so be prepared before hiking it. Another popular area is the Elena Gallegos Picnic Area. This 640-acre park has trails in the foothills of the Sandias, with plenty of plants to identify. Check out some of the other hiking trails in the area.

A man holds the hand of a young boy as they walk on a trail in the Sandia Mountains

Photo Credit: Will Fox/Sandia Peak Tram

Camping in the Sandia Mountains

The Turquoise Trail Campground and RV Park offers a mountain escape just 15 minutes away from Albuquerque. Located on the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, tent campsites are available along with cabins with electricity and water. There are also some dispersed camping sites in the Manzanita Recreation Zone. These campsites have no amenities.

Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway

The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway is an iconic Albuquerque activity. Hop on board at the base of the Sandias to ride the longest tram in North America to the top of the mountains. Once at the top, you’ll get panoramic views of Albuquerque. Stop for a bite to eat at TEN 3, the restaurant up at the top. There are casual and fine dining options available.

A group of people talk with each other and look outside while they're inside the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway

Winter Activities

The Sandias typically get a couple feet of snow every winter, making it a great place to take part in some winter sports. Sandia Peak Ski Area offers 35 trails in a range of difficulty for any level of skier or snowboarder. Snowshoeing is another popular activity. Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals offer snowshoeing tours in the Sandias every winter.

Sandia Peak Ski Area

Other Things to Do

Tinkertown Museum is a folk museum located in Sandia Park on the way to Sandia Crest. It is open seasonally from April to October, and features the work of Ross Ward. He created hundreds of carved figurines in intricate displays. The museum displays his work alongside other Americana objects. Wildlife West Nature Park houses rescued wildlife. View more than 20 species of native New Mexican animals just 30 minutes outside of Albuquerque.

A close-up of the Western town at Tinkertown Museum