Written By Ken Hulsey | Photos Courtesy of Sandia Peak Tramway
It might seem unbelievable, but the breathtaking Sandia Mountains just outside Albuquerque, New Mexico, can whisk you away to a landscape reminiscent of the Swiss Alps! Our family's journey began in 1978 when we traded our flat, small farming town in northern Texas (Vernon) for the awe-inspiring beauty of this mountainous terrain. From the very first moment I laid eyes on those towering peaks, I was captivated. Each day, stepping outside and soaking in those majestic mountains filled my heart with a longing for the rugged beauty of the West and Southwest. The gentle rustle of the wind weaving through the pine trees is a melody unlike any other.
One of the most surprising discoveries was learning that the world's longest aerial tramway isn't perched in the Swiss Alps but rather gracefully glides across the Sandias. For years, I yearned to experience this tramway ride, yet my fear of heights held me back. But then came the day when my adventurous friends persuaded me to overcome my apprehensions, and oh, what a thrill it was! Ascending the mountain was nothing short of exhilarating, as stunning views unfolded before my eyes—the surrounding peaks and Albuquerque sprawling below felt almost spiritual.
If only I had been able to ride the tramway on a snowy day, the sights must have been absolutely spectacular! Since its grand opening in May 1966, the iconic Sandia Peak Tramway has welcomed over 12 million passengers up to Sandia Peak and back again. Situated on the eastern edge of Albuquerque, New Mexico's largest city, this tramway has become one of Central New Mexico's most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from near and far.
The vision for this engineering marvel was sparked by a European adventure taken by Robert Nordhaus, one of the Sandia Peak Ski Company's original founders and owners. Inspired by tramways he experienced abroad, Nordhaus teamed up with Ben Abruzzo to transform this dream into reality. Their ambitious project not only connected Albuquerque to the summit of Sandia Peak but also offered skiers a stunning and efficient route away from the treacherous mountain roads.
On the distant horizon, the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the vibrant city of Santa Fe beckon. Further south, the panoramic scene is framed by the Estancia Valley and the Manzano Mountains, creating a picture-perfect landscape that is truly unforgettable. Central to this stunning spectacle is the Sandia Peak Tramway itself—a remarkable 2.7-mile-long, bi-cable double reversible aerial tramway. The design utilizes the innovative concept of two tramcars attached to hauling cables, where the weight of the descending car efficiently assists in pulling the ascending one. Experience the thrill and beauty of the Sandia Peak Tramway—you won’t want to miss it!
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