Sandia Crest
Ascend to 10,678 ft for unparalleled views of Albuquerque and dramatic mountain landscapes. Experience the Sandia Peak Tramway and breathtaking sunset...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect sunset light
Sandia Crest
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect sunset light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to 10,678 ft for unparalleled views of Albuquerque and dramatic mountain landscapes. Experience the Sandia Peak Tramway and breathtaking sunsets.
"Views are fantastic. Worth the time to drive up."
🚗 Drive or Tram?
Driving offers flexibility; the tram is a unique experience. Both provide amazing views!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can change rapidly at this elevation. Be prepared for wind and cooler temps.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Spectacle
Sandia Crest Peak
Witness Albuquerque bathed in golden hues as the sun dips below the horizon. A truly magical experience.
Sandia Peak Tramway Ride
Base of Sandia Mountains to Crest
Ascend 2.7 miles to over 10,000 feet, experiencing four life zones and breathtaking panoramic views.
Kiwanis Cabin Trail
Near Sandia Crest parking area
A short, scenic hike to a historic stone cabin offering incredible cliffside vistas.
Scenic Drive Views
Sandia Crest Scenic Byway
Enjoy numerous pull-offs with stunning overlooks of the landscape and Albuquerque below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Getting to the Top
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive or Tram?
Driving offers flexibility; the tram is a unique experience. Both provide amazing views!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can change rapidly at this elevation. Be prepared for wind and cooler temps.
🅿️ Parking Fees
There's a small fee for parking at the crest, typically around $3 per vehicle.
🥾 Hiking Shoes Recommended
Even if you're not doing a long hike, comfortable shoes are good for exploring viewpoints.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive or Tram?
Driving offers flexibility; the tram is a unique experience. Both provide amazing views!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can change rapidly at this elevation. Be prepared for wind and cooler temps.
🅿️ Parking Fees
There's a small fee for parking at the crest, typically around $3 per vehicle.
🥾 Hiking Shoes Recommended
Even if you're not doing a long hike, comfortable shoes are good for exploring viewpoints.
📸 Sunset Photography
Arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset photos; it gets busy!
💧 Stay Hydrated
The high altitude can be dehydrating. Bring plenty of water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the spectacular, panoramic views from Sandia Crest, calling the drive and tram ride worthwhile experiences. Many highlight the stunning sunsets and the unique ecosystem changes during the ascent. Some note the potential for wind and altitude effects, and crowds can be significant during peak sunset hours.
"Views are fantastic. Worth the time to drive up.
There is plenty of parking and easily accessible for all ages."
Lucretia Wendt
"We drove up the east side as the tram was closed for wind. Beautiful outlook spot. It was very windy. There were a bunch of antenna up there too which was interesting to see. The altitude is obviously high so be aware if you are prone to altitude sickness. There appeared to be a trail across a ridge you could hike. We didn't do that."
Boater Girl
"Great place for a drive, walks, biking, picnics but on my day snow at peak so no photos of the view, hey still a great time 😀 👍"
Wayne Mossop
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive up the scenic Sandia Crest Scenic Byway or take the Sandia Peak Tramway. For GPS, try 'Sandia Crest' or 'Sandia Peak Tramway Base Station'.
The tramway's operating status can vary due to weather, especially wind. It's best to check their official website or call ahead.
The drive from Albuquerque typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and how often you stop at scenic overlooks.
While there are hiking trails in the Sandia Mountains, most visitors drive or take the tram to the crest itself. Some trails lead to viewpoints near the crest.
The byway is generally open year-round, but can experience closures due to snow or ice in winter. Always check road conditions before you go.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tramway tickets are typically under $30 per person for a round trip. Prices can vary, so check the official Sandia Peak Tramway website for current rates.
Yes, there is usually a parking fee at the Sandia Crest, often around $3 per vehicle. This helps maintain the area.
It's highly recommended to book tramway tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to guarantee your spot and avoid long queues.
There are no general entrance fees for the Sandia Mountains National Forest, but specific areas like the tramway and crest parking lot have associated costs.
The crest itself is accessible during daylight hours via the byway. The tramway has specific operating hours, which can change seasonally.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunsets offer dramatic colors and city lights, making it a prime time. Early mornings provide clear views and softer light. 
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for sunset and low-light photography.
The main overlook near the tramway station offers iconic views. The Kiwanis Cabin Trail also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Drone regulations can vary. Always check current FAA and local rules before flying. Some areas may have restrictions.
Look for dramatic cloud formations, the vast Albuquerque cityscape, unique rock formations, and seasonal wildflowers or ladybug aggregations.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Kiwanis Cabin Trail is a popular short hike. Longer trails like the South Crest Trail offer more challenging options for experienced hikers.
The main viewing areas at the crest are generally accessible. The tramway is also accessible. Some trails may be uneven. +1
You can hike, have a picnic, enjoy scenic drives, visit the gift shop, or dine at TEN 3 restaurant. +2
While not guaranteed, you might spot deer, various birds, and in cooler months, ladybugs overwintering in large numbers.
Sandia Crest is at an elevation of 10,678 feet (3,255 meters). Be mindful of potential altitude sickness. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, TEN 3 restaurant offers fine dining with spectacular views at the top of the tramway. +1
Absolutely! There are many scenic spots perfect for a picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash.
TEN 3 offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring steaks, seafood, and other upscale dishes.
Besides TEN 3, options might be limited. It's a good idea to bring snacks or plan for a meal at the restaurant or back down in Albuquerque.
Yes, you can bring your own non-alcoholic beverages and snacks for picnics. Alcoholic beverages may be restricted in certain areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sandia Peak Tramway Experience
Many visitors find the tram ride to be a highlight of their trip. It's a smooth and scenic journey that takes approximately 15 minutes one way. At the top, you'll find access to hiking trails, viewpoints, and the TEN 3 restaurant. It's a fantastic way to reach the crest, especially for those who prefer not to drive or want a more immersive mountain experience. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment, particularly during busy periods.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Sandia Crest
+1Beyond sunsets, the scenic drive itself presents numerous opportunities for photography, with pull-offs offering unique perspectives of the mountains and valleys. The Kiwanis Cabin Trail provides a picturesque subject with its historic stone architecture set against dramatic cliffside views. In certain seasons, you might even encounter unique natural phenomena, like the massive aggregations of ladybugs overwintering in sheltered spots, offering a truly unusual photographic subject.
+2Hiking and Exploring the Crest
+1More adventurous hikers can explore longer trails like the South Crest Trail, which winds along the ridge, offering continuous panoramic views. These trails can be more challenging and require proper preparation, including water, snacks, and appropriate footwear. Even a short stroll around the main viewing areas provides a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the crisp mountain air.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit