30 Tramway Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122, USA
Phone: +1 505-856-1532
The Sandia Mountains are a striking feature of Albuquerque, transforming into a beautiful pink hue at sunset. However, these mountains offer much more than picturesque views. Located just a 45-minute drive or a short tram ride from central Albuquerque, Sandia Peak provides an array of activities such as skiing, hiking, and more, depending on the season. Here is a complete guide to this famous peak, detailing how to get there, what you can do, and additional information.
Winter Activities
The primary attractions of Sandia Peak during winter are skiing and snowboarding. To find parking, drive around to the back of the mountain. You’ll be situated next to the Double Eagle II Day Lodge ski base, which offers ski and snowboard rentals along with beginner slopes and ski schools. For advanced skiers, take the tram directly to chairlift 1’s peak.
With runs available for all skill levels, it’s important to remember, however, that the base area sits at 8,700 feet, while the peak reaches about 10,300 feet. Due to the altitude and cold conditions, expect to tire quickly, and be cautious of altitude sickness. For those wishing to explore Sandia’s wilderness, snowshoeing treks offered by MST Adventures provide a unique opportunity. These guided tours include snowshoes and poles, lasting between 3.5 to 4 hours. Group tours of three or more are $85 per person, while private tours are priced at $150 per person.
Rental gear including skis, snowboards, helmets, and more is available at the ski base or from Sports Systems, a local rental store. Be sure to check current pricing and availability at these locations.
Lift Ticket Rates
Half-day tickets are valid for either 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or from 12:30 p.m. until closing. The lift ticket prices for 2019 are as follows:
- Adult – All Lifts: $40 (half day), $55 (all day)
- Students – All Lifts (ages 13-23): $35 (half day), $45 (all day)
- Children – All Lifts (ages 6-12): $30 (half day), $40 (all day)
- Senior – All Lifts (ages 62-71): $35 (half day), $45 (all day)
- With Military ID – All Lifts: $40 (all day)
- Beginner Chairlift: $35 (all day)
- Children under 46″ tall: Free
- Seniors 72+: Free
Summer Activities
In the summer and fall months, ski trails are transformed into mountain biking paths. Bike and helmet rentals are available on-site, with a $650 deposit for the bike, $12 for helmet rentals, and a $35 deposit for the helmet. An all-day mountain bike package, which includes a bike and a full-day lift ticket, costs $60. Alternatively, renting a mountain bike with a single roundtrip lift ticket costs $50.
You can also take a scenic picnic at Sandia, enjoy the offerings at the Double Eagle II Cafe, or play volleyball. In the fall, visitors can ride the chairlift to enjoy breathtaking views of the autumn foliage. Nonetheless, construction on the Top of Tram restaurant will affect summer activities, including biking, until its expected completion in June 2019.
Where to Eat
There are currently two restaurants on the mountain, with a third on the way. Located at the base of the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, adjacent to the tram entrance, is Sandiago’s Grill at the Tram. The restaurant boasts large windows with stunning valley views and offers small bites, drinks, or full meals to enjoy before or after mountain activities. Notably, a roundtrip tram ticket provides a $5 discount on lunch or dinner purchases of $25 or more.
If you are looking for a quick meal during your time on the slopes, visit the Double Eagle II Cafe located on the second floor of the ski base, where you can find snacks, breakfast, and lunch options. A new and improved Sandia Restaurant atop the Tram is slated to open in spring/early summer 2019, offering panoramic vistas of Albuquerque from 10,378 feet high.
Getting There
There are primarily two options to reach Sandia Peak: by car or via the tramway, though a vehicle is necessary to access the tramway base terminal. While driving from Albuquerque to the ski area, take I-40 East to exit 175, followed by a northbound drive on NM Highway 14 leading to Crest Scenic Byway 536. Remain on the byway for 6 miles to arrive at the ski area. To reach the tram from I-40, take exit 167 and navigate Tramway Boulevard North for approximately 9 miles to the tramway base. From I-25, take exit 234, heading east on Tramway Road towards the tramway.
