With its show-stopping colors and hard-to-beat mountainous skyline, every sunset in Albuquerque is spectacular – regardless of your vantage point. But certain spots offer jaw-dropping views above and beyond the rest. Here’s where to head to catch a stunner on a gorgeous evening.

Sandia Mountain Wilderness

Looking to take in the sunset while squeezing in a sweat sesh? Explore Sandia Foothills Open Space Park by mountain bike. The 8.4-mile South Foothills Loop is challenging but worth it for the stellar views. If hiking is more your thing, La Luz Trail to Tramway Trail won’t let you down. The 4.2-mile out-and-back trek features gorgeous wildflowers and great views of the Rio Grande Valley.

You can also opt to skip the exercise but not the adrenaline rush, when you go for a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway. The 15-minute ride ascends to the crest of Sandia Peak, where an observation deck awaits, overlooking an 11,000 square-mile panoramic view of the “Land of Enchantment.”

Apothecary Lounge

On the top floor of the stylish Hotel Parq Central, find Albuquerque’s ultimate rooftop bar, the Apothecary Lounge. Enjoy classic cocktails, international wines, and local craft brews paired with tasty small plates like bacon-wrapped dates and green chile Angus sliders – plus out-of-this-world views of the Sandia Mountains and downtown skyline.

Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Ride Co.

Set on a sunset ride? It’ll have to wait until November due to summer temperatures and wind patterns. Instead, settle on a sunrise flight any day of the year (weather permitting, of course). Soar among the clouds on a one-hour Rainbow Ryders hot air balloon ride over the scenic Rio Grande and Southwest vistas. For an even more epic adventure, ascend en masse with 50 to 100 other balloons during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in early October.

For more events, activities, eats, and drinks in and around Albuquerque, check out Olympus Encantada’s blog.