Sandia Mountains, NM
Today’s Forecast:
Today’s Report:
Hiking
Good for hiking. High near 43°F. Low rain risk (16%).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Favorable conditions
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Biking
Not Recommended for biking. High near 43°F. Low rain risk (16%). Temperatures outside comfort limits (43°F).
- Temp: Unfavorable weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Favorable conditions
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Camping
Good for camping. High near 43°F. Low rain risk (16%).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Favorable conditions
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Sledding / Snowshoeing
Fair for sledding / snowshoeing. High near 43°F. Low rain risk (16%).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Favorable conditions
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
About Sandia Mountains
This forecast point represents the main visitor approach and should be adjusted for elevation and exposure across the coverage area. Planning decisions include rapid elevation change, tram wind, ridge lightning, snow, ice and forest closures.
Planning an Outing at Sandia Mountains
Check the exact road, trail, water, fire, park or operating notice before departure. Conditions near Sandia Crest may not represent the highest, most exposed or most remote part of the destination.
Weather Tips for Sandia Mountains
- Carry water, sun protection and layers for rapid temperature changes.
- Leave ridges, open water, washes and exposed ground before lightning arrives.
- Check wind, smoke, fire restrictions and access for the specific activity.
- Expect limited cell service and longer response times away from developed areas.
Nearby Towns and Areas
Use this forecast as practical context for:
- Sandia Crest
- Tijeras
- Cedar Crest
- Albuquerque Foothills
Adjust the Day to the Forecast
Replace the crest with a lower foothill trail when ridges cloud over; after snow, favor established winter routes instead of icy summer trails.
7-Day Forecast for Sandia Mountains
Sandia Mountains Weather by Season
Winter
Snow, black ice and short daylight restrict crest roads and high trailheads. Seasonal judgment must account for rapid elevation change, tram wind, ridge lightning, snow, ice and forest closures.
Spring
Melting snow leaves mud while wind and fire danger rise at lower elevations. Seasonal judgment must account for rapid elevation change, tram wind, ridge lightning, snow, ice and forest closures.
Summer
Leave ridges before lightning, hail or post-fire runoff reaches the route. Seasonal judgment must account for rapid elevation change, tram wind, ridge lightning, snow, ice and forest closures.
Fall
Cooler days favor longer trails until early snow again separates crest from foothill conditions. Seasonal judgment must account for rapid elevation change, tram wind, ridge lightning, snow, ice and forest closures.
Key Climate Data Points
- Approximate annual average temperature: roughly 48–58°F, strongly modified by elevation.
- Annual snowfall: substantial and seasonally important at the highest elevations.
- Warmest period: June through August, with lower desert areas hottest before monsoon moisture peaks.
- Summer monsoon: July into September is the principal thunderstorm period.
- Best outdoor window: Varies by elevation; spring and fall favor lower terrain while summer favors early high-country starts.