Granite fins, towers, and walls offer adventurous climbs from one to 15 pitches in length, fourth class ridges, to challenging ascents from grade II – V. This unique area boasts easy access by car and more spectacular yet, the world’s longest aerial tramway takes you into this rugged mountain setting. The Sandia Peak Tramway offers a unique experience in North American climbing. Climbers can catch a tram “flight” from Albuquerque 6500 ft, to the Sandia Crest at 10,300 ft in 15 minutes.
Ranger Rock
Located just off of I-40 heading toward Tijeras, Ranger Rock is probably the closest hike with the highest density of climbs. Short limestone cliff bands at 6,350ft of elevation hold the perfect first time experience as well as the best classroom for traditional climbing protection and anchoring.
Palomas Peak
Palomas Peak is on the north side of the Sandias, it lies between the North Sandia Peak and the town of Placitas. This is a beautiful spot that feels far removed from civilization and has longer more diverse routes with a variety of climbing difficulties. The hiking approach is longer and steep, but well worth it if you have a full day out. At 8,150ft this area holds limestone cliff bands with a prime season of February – November.
Sandia Granite
Nestled within the Cibola National Forest, granite towers, fins and walls offer adventurous climbs from 1 to 15 pitches in length, fourth class ridges, to challenging ascents from grade II – V. This unique area boasts easy access by car and more spectacular yet, the world’s longest aerial tramway takes you into this rugged mountain setting. The Sandia Peak Tramway offers a unique experience in North American climbing. Climbers can catch a tram “flight” from Albuquerque 6500 ft, to the Sandia Crest at 10,300 ft in 15 minutes. The Sandias provide a true sense of solitude in a rugged mountain environment. The Sandias are a challenging area that helps forge strong wilderness climbing skills and personal growth that only comes from experience, challenge and success. These mountains are an excellent venue for developing good judgment and technical skills in the areas of route finding, protection, multi-pitch and big wall climbing. They also provide a great venue for an introduction to climbing if you are already an outdoor enthusiast.
Classic Multi-Pitch Climbs
West Face of the Tombstone – II 5.5 3 pitches
Northwest Ridge of the Thumb – III 5.6
Second Coming – II 5.8 4-5 pitches
Excitable Boys – III 5.9 7-8 pitches
Mountain Momma – III 5.10 5-6 pitches
