minutes to ascend , and the normal operating speed of the tram is . Approximately four "flights" leave every hour from the base and top termini. The viewshed from the tram includes all of Albuquerque and roughly of the New Mexico countryside. The tramway has only two support towers. The first tower, which is tall, is situated at an elevation of above sea level and built as an inclined tower with an inclination angle of 18 degrees. The second, just tall, is situated at the end of a major spur of the mountains at an elevation of and was built by the aid of over 2,000 helicopter trips, with support rods driven up to into the granite. The longest span is between the second tower and the top terminal. This span is the third-longest clear tramway span in the world, at a length of . Mid-span, the cables are above the mountainside. This 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 lives of all 16 passengers and crew were lost. While much of the wreckage was removed during construction of the tramway, some still remains on the canyon floor and may be visible to riders of the tram. Activities on top At the top of Sandia Peak there are many year-round recreational options. The restaurant, TEN 3 (stylized as 10|3), is directly adjacent to the top tram terminal and offers scenic views to the west. Many Forest Service trails offer recreational hiking, backpacking and nature hikes to visitors. Additionally, the tram terminal is located at the top of Sandia Peak Ski Area, which is on the opposite side of the mountain from the tramway and the city. Skiing is available in the wintertime, and during the summer more than of mountain biking trails are available. Bikes cannot be taken onto tram cars. There is no public transportation in this area of Albuquerque; the tram is accessible only by car, bicycle, or foot. Notes External links Sandia Peak Tramway official site Tourist attractions in Albuquerque, New Mexico Transportation in Albuquerque, New Mexico Aerial tramways in the United States Buildings and structures in Albuquerque, New Mexico 1966 establishments in New Mexico