The Sandia Mountain chain is crowned by Sandia Crest near Albuquerque, New Mexico. The non-volcanic geologic masterpiece provides a scenic splendor and a beautiful background for the city below. Sandia is the Spanish word for watermelon, and at sunset, the mountain reflects sunsets and creates a very convincing watermelon shade!

Elevation averages about two miles above sea level; about one mile above Albuquerque, which already sits 5,000 feet above sea level.

The mountain range receives plenty of snow in the winter; most falls on the east side, while the west-facing side usually just sees a light dusting.

This photo of the mountain was taken in winter on the west-facing side. Albuquerque enjoys its sugar-frosted backdrop during colder months.

Yes, New Mexico has four seasons. Despite its Southwest location, it is not nearly as hot as many believe. Much of the state is considered a high desert, meaning the increased elevation sees cooler temperatures in the summer months than a true desert climate. Spring and fall are mild and can be shorter than summer and winter seasons, but this varies from year-to-year.

Numerous hiking trails traverse the Crest, and there is a modern tram that quickly whisks visitors to the top.

The view from the tram is quite lovely, passing above all kinds of fascinating rocks and sub-climate environments, which transition from a desert to an alpine forest at the peak.

Deer, mountain lions, chipmunks, birds, and black bears call this area home. Usually these animals are not visible or active where humans are present, but keep an eye out, just in case.

Chair lift access is associated with the ski area on the east face. During snowy months, this area provides great downhill slopes for skiers. On summer weekends, the chair transports hikers and mountain bikers up and down the mountain to explore the rocky inclines. This lift is quite basic, but it does the job.

Wildflowers and a wide variety of coniferous and deciduous trees grow here. Hiking the Crest Trail or other surrounding paths will wrap you in the delightful scent of balsam.

On days when Albuquerque and the surrounding lower elevation areas reach temperatures pushing 100°, the Crest provides a cool respite, with temperatures at the top averaging in the mid-70° range.

The Turquoise Trail or State Route 14 will transport you to this forested paradise, should you choose to drive the well-maintained paved road to the top on the east side. To get here, exit US Route 40 at Tijeras to join the Turquoise. The original Route 66 runs nearby and is marked. On the way up, you will also pass Tinkertown Museum, which makes a fun little stop on your drive to the east side of the mountain.

Photographer David Cooper travels across the Southwest and Western states, exploring the beautiful, unique, and little-known spots along the way. His adventures have carried him to Tent Rocks and Chaco Canyon in New Mexico, a Viking Castle at Lake Tahoe, and Bryce Canyon In Utah.