Sandia Peak

Today I took  the Sandia Peak Aerial Tram here in Albuquerque, New Mexico.  The tramway celebrated its 50th anniversary in May.  The tram ascends 4,000 feet in about 15 minutes.

The tram has the world's third longest single span.  It is the longest aerial tram in the United States.  Easy tram car can carry 50 passengers.  New tram cars were installed this May and new track cables in 2009.   The view from the tram includes all of Albuquergue and roughly 11,000 square miles of the New Mexico countryside.  The longest span is between the second tower and the top terminal.  A commentator tells you all about what you are seeing as you ascend and they answer questions.  The mid-span passes over Domingo Baca Canyon, part of which is referred to as TWA Canyon.  This is the site of the crash of TWA Flight 260 on February 19, 1955, in which the all 16 passengers and crew were lost.

At the top, you will find the High Finance Restaurant and offers a scenic view while you dine.  I had planned to eat there but the altitude said otherwise.  There are forest service trails for backpacking and hiking.    On the other side of the tram upper station, is Sandia Peak Ski Area and in the summer used for biking on the ski trails. 

It was a great day.  Tomorrow we start our slow trek to Mesa, Arizonia.  We are in no rush, we do not have to be there until the 30th.