If you want to enjoy unforgettable fall views while in Albuquerque, then make sure you head to the Sandia Peak Tramway. The Sandia Peak Tramway is one of the top-rated things to do in Albuquerque in the summer and fall, and it’s easy to see why. The Sandia Peak Tramway starts at the base of the famed Sandia Mountains and from there rises from the city, leaving the loud noises behind and exchanging them for quiet tranquility.
From the crest of the Sandia Mountains, which towers above Albuquerque at 10, 378 feet, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the New Mexico landscape below. It’s beautiful any time of year but particularly full as the blazing colors of fall begin their annual display. The Sandia Peak Tramway base station is a quick 20-minute drive from our Albuquerque Bed and Breakfast, making it a quick and easy thing to do while you’re here.
Take your fall getaway to the next level with a stay in Old Town Albuquerque. Book your room today!
Soar Above the City on the Sandia Peak Tramway
Though it’s not the only way to get to the crest of the Sandia Mountains, riding the Sandia Peak Tramway is the most popular way to climb to these heights. You can hike if you’re really adventurous! Even though you can hike, taking the ride is still worth it, as the ride up the Sandia Peak Tramway is quite impressive and a fantastic part of the journey.
The journey aboard the Sandia Peak Tramway takes about 15 minutes. In what seems like no time, you’ll be lifted to an impressive summit where you can enjoy an 11,000 square-mile panoramic view of Albuquerque and the desert valley below. At the top of the Sandia Peak Tramway, you’ll find yourself in the Cibola National Forest, a place filled with fir and aspen.
More than 100 miles of hiking trails are accessible from the top of the Sandia Peak Tramway. Popular routes include the Peak Nature Trail and the South Peak Trail. If you plan to go hiking at the top, you can expect to see bright pops of yellow in the fall, which adds to the drama of the already beautiful landscape. Pack plenty of layers, as it can get cold at the top!
There’s also a restaurant at the top of the Sandia Peak Tramway. It’s a great place to grab lunch or a snack between adventures, and it’s definitely what we’d consider dining with a view! Finally, though we’re focused on things to do in Albuquerque in the fall, don’t forget that the Sandia Peak Tramway is also your gateway to the amazing Sandia Peak Ski Area each winter. Now is a great time to start planning those adventures, too!
The Sandia Peak Tramway is currently open Wednesday through Monday, and purchasing tickets online in advance is required.
More Things to do in Albuquerque This Fall
Fall is a fantastic time to visit Albuquerque. Fall is the season of the famed Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, of course, but as the weather cools down from the summer highs, we find so many other great things to do in Albuquerque in the fall. Aside from riding the Sandia Peak Tramway for stunning fall views, here are a few other great things to do in Albuquerque this fall.
- Though there are plenty of things to do in Albuquerque this fall, if you had to choose just one, it should be attending the stunning Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – especially one of the mass ascension events or the evening glow events.
- Fall is also the season for New Mexico chilies. Head to the best Albuquerque restaurants and enjoy noshing on the flavors of the season!
- Join the vibrant Dia de Los Muertos celebrations across the city each October and November – it’s one of the most fun things to do in Albuquerque in the fall!
- Visit local New Mexico wineries as they bring in the new year of harvest.
- Wine isn’t the only craft beverage in town. Visit one of the many great Albuquerque breweries!
- Fall is the perfect time to get out and enjoy some hiking – and there are plenty of great places to do it. Hiking is rated as one of the most popular things to do in Albuquerque in the fall.
- How about biking? There are some excellent flat biking and mountain biking trails around Albuquerque. Don’t miss a trip through the beautiful Paseo del Bosque Trail.
- Enjoy some shopping in Old Town Albuquerque or the popular Nob Hill Neighborhood.
Between all these adventures, make sure to take time for yourself. There’s nowhere better to stay in Albuquerque than our Old Town Albuquerque Bed and Breakfast. Book your room today!
