Sandia Crest Byway is the highest scenic drive in the southwest, following NM 536 for nearly 14 miles up to Sandia Crest, which stands a mile above the surrounding countryside and two miles above sea level. The craggy, asperous western face of the Sandia Mountains contrasts the forested eastern slopes that you'll follow up to Sandia Crest. Beginning your journey, stop at two museums; as you proceed up the route, take in the rugged recreation and wonderment of this central New Mexico region.
At the beginning of the route in Cedar Crest, stop and visit the Museum of Archaeology and Material Culture. The museum features a variety of archaeological and historical exhibits that cover over 12,000 years of Native American history. One computer-enhanced exhibit explores the Sandia Cave and local turquoise mining. From there, head west along the byway and visit Tinkertown. In contrast to the Museum of Archaeology and Material Culture, Tinkertown is an eccentric, fanciful place. The museum represents one man's work of 40 years to create this curious 22-room museum. Over 50,000 glass bottles form the outside walls, and antiques, hand-carved pieces, and figurines arranged in miniature scenes fill the inside rooms.
Every inch of the byway lies within the borders of Cibola National Forest, which holds its own in offering recreation and wildlife viewing. Miles of trails provide biking and hiking in warm weather and snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in colder months. The Sandia Mountains reside within the forest, and mountain wildlife such as Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, deer, black bears, and golden eagles can all be seen here.
Sandia Peak Ski and Tramway are on the last leg of the route. Take the Sandia Park Tramway to see for yourself the 11,000 square mile panoramic view of New Mexico. Stretching 2.7 miles, the Sandia Park Tramway is the world's longest tramway, and it hovers over New Mexico's desert canyons and forests until it reaches the peak. Once you reach the top, you'll be at the Sandia Peak Ski Area. In the winter, 30 trails wander through this New Mexico mountain. In the summer, mountain biking is a must; the mountain trails cover 24 miles of variation for both novices and pros. Sandia Peak offers the ultimate downhill experience, whether you ski or bike down its slopes. From Sandia Peak Ski and Tramway, travel to the end of the byway, where Sandia Crest awaits you. Standing at 10,678 feet, the view from the highest point on this route is unsuppressed and scopious.
Drive the Sandia Crest Byway up the eastern slopes of the Sandia Mountains through Cibola National Forest to Sandia Crest. Stop at local museums, then enjoy forest recreation and a truly panoramic view of Cibola National Forest from Sandia Crest's peak.
