Exploring The Sandia Mountains Over Albuquerque New Mexico

Are you dreaming of that one of a kind adventure? It is time to meet the Sandia Mountains, that look over the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico from the East. A Sandia Mountain adventure is waiting in the wings. It is guaranteed to be one of a kind, magnificent,  and unique to the bone. There is no better view of the city, than from the Sandia Mountains. 

The Spanish word, Sandia, means watermelon.  You only have to watch the amazing sunsets as they are burst across the skies with sensational colors to envision how these mountains received their name. . Imagine the affect of watching this display of color from 10,600 feet.  It is here that the spectacular meets the magnificent. 

Enjoy the foothills of the mountains in spring, as you cherish the views of the Prickly-Pear Cactus. in full bloom. The Prickly-Pear is greatly sought after by the poor in late summer, as an answer to the need for fruit in the house.  Hikers also know that in the Prickly-Pear, they will find both water and nourishment.  The photographer is delighted in all the different varieties and colors of the Prickly-Pear. The Prickly-Pear is nothing short of spectacular. 

Another beautiful cactus in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains is the Cholla Cactus. Like the Prickly-Pear, it is spectacular with many varieties and colors. Amazing beauty is everywhere in the Sandia Mountains. The third major player in the foothills is the Desert Sage. This is one of our Creators greatest gifts to mankind. You can either use the fresh leaves or the dried leaves to make a delightful tea, one that on a hot day will make you feel cooler. It will actually cause your body temperature to drop. The change is significant, and you actually feel the difference. 

Take a short hike up the mountain and you will begin to see stately Pine and Fir trees. The Pine and Fir Trees line the top of the ridge and cliffs and are found throughout the valleys. For those who choose to head off toward the west, you will encounter the ancient lava fields and the Petroglyph National Monument. Within the monument you will find rocks with carvings, ruins of ancient homes, and often pieces of clay pots. 

Another magnificent way to see these mountains are to travel aboard the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway. This is the longest tram in the world and takes you to the crest. From the crest you will New Mexico in a whole new way. You will see a valley of cottonwoods lining the Rio Grande River, and ancient dormant volcanoes in the distance. And the sunsets are beyond what you can imagine. Even in darkness, there is beauty in the city below as the lights turn on and off throughout the evening. The view is spectacular, the valley enormous, the city magnificent, and the experience is life changing.