Sandia Crest — Local services in Four Corners States

Sunset over Albuquerque, looking out at the 3 sisters is a wonderful finish to a drive or hike to the crest. A great destination if you're properly packed and prepared.

Albuquerque's base is roughly 5312' (at the Rio Grande.) The mountains loom over the city reaching an altitude at the crest of 10,769'. The air is much thinner, drier, and the temperature can be much lower. Wind is a near-constant presence and the sun is much more intense at high altitude, so dress, slather sunscreen, and balm your lips appropriately!

It's a great drive to the crest and back down. The roads are winding mountain roads with sweeping vistas. Watch your speed descending! there is plenty of evidence down the mountain demonstrating where speed tragically got the better of drivers. Chains are required in the winter, and unmaintained roads become unpassable without warning through the winter (many are technically closed.)

When you get to the top your key fob very likely won't work, your cell phone might not, either. It's the antenna array.

Parking costs or requires a permit, unless you hike up, because the crest is part of the...

We visited this on Aug. 11, 2021 right after we took the scenic mountain route around to the Sandia Man Cave. It was great and highly recommended as well.

The drive is easy if you come in from the South, but the North drive is "unmaintained mountain road" and not to be driven by something with low clearance. Would highly recommend the north side road for a motorcycle.

View from the top of Sandia Crest is so amazing. You can see all the mountains around and the entire valley. Great photo opportunities.

It's 10,700' in elevation, so keep in mind that your oxygen goes from 21% at sea level to 13.5% at this height. Strenuous hiking would be pretty rough due to the lack of oxygen.

Many people say to bring a jacket, but it wasn't needed this trip. It was probably 75 degrees and a slight breeze, but it was August. I'm sure it's freezing in the later part...

Hot air balloons are not the only way to see the beauty of New Mexico. Consider a tram ride up and down Sandia Peak. The ride starts at the east edge of the City and carries you to an altitude of some 10,000 feet at the top of Sandia Crest. The tram car almost brushes the terrain below it giving riders a breath -taking view of what grows beneath their feet at different altitudes, as well as views of the mountains all around Albuquerque, including the exposed core of the old volcano, Mexican Hat. It's a wondrous experience for all ages and if you go you should take a jacket or wrap because it's cold up there. You will see our well- hidden ski area that falls away down the back of the mountain. Skiers ride the tram up in the morning, ski til lunch time and ride the tram back into town. Plan to have lunch at the brand new...