Sandia Peak

A couple of weeks ago I promised to post some photos from the top of the tramway near Albuquerque that goes to the top of the Sandia Mountains. On the other side the terrain isn't as rugged and there's a ski resort (since I was there in May it wasn't operating).

But the terrain on the front side is very unforgiving.

It was hazy due to wildfires so the views were somewhat obscured.

But I did do a little hiking, and would love to go back on a clear day with more time to explore.

This post is for Scenic Sunday.

Sandia Peak Ride

Here are some photos I took while riding the impressive Sandia Peak Tramway near Albuquerque. As you can see the mountains are fairly dry.

This photo looks back towards the city from the longest span. There were forest fires in Arizona at the time so there's haze; normally the view would be perfect.

Here's another photo from the longest span looking towards the top.

And this is looking straight down, hopefully it doesn't make you too dizzy!

It's a ride worth taking if you don't mind heights. Next week I'll try to remember to post some shots from the top. In the meantime visit Our World Tuesday for more photos. Between this and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway it's been quite the year for high rides!

Sandia Peak Tramway

Coming back from California earlier this year we stayed a night in Albuquerque. Probably the most famous attraction there is the Sandia Peak Tramway that takes you to the crestline of the Sandia Mountains.

I hope you're not afraid of heights before you board and commit yourself to the ride.

And it is certainly high, as it's got the world's third-longest single span.

Next week I'll show you photos I took on the ride. I'm linking this to the Shadow Shot Sunday meme for the second photo, to Our World Tuesday, and to Scenic Sunday.

Annular Solar Eclipse

We happened to be driving to Albuquerque on Sunday (more on this brief but long road trip later), and of course I had to pull off the road to see the annular solar eclipse, which was fully visible from our location. I don't have the right equipment to get worthwhile photos but I did manage to get a couple that I want to post.

This was one of the most amazing natural things I've ever seen in my life, and I wish my photographs did it justice. And it's an obvious choice for my Skywatch Friday post.