Originally shot (using an HD Flip cam) for www.blackatlas.com. View original video here.

I didn’t feel like a tourist until I boarded the tram.

In fact, I was able to relax on the 45 minute drive to the Sandia Peak Tramway. The drive was fairly easy and, as my car took me higher into the mountains, I felt at peace.

But, when I bought that $7 ticket and stood in line with the several dozen other people waiting to board our “flight” to the top of the mountain, I began to feel a bit cheesy.

Everyone in line had their camera equipment; some had on sweatshirts and hats they bought in the gift shop.

It didn’t get more tourist-y than this.

But then, my ride began.

A fifteen minute and nearly three mile ride up turned into a sight-seeing experience like no other. And, believe or not, I saw more than mountains. The plant life on the way is amazing; you don’t see these blooms in many other areas.

There was a bit of a history lesson, too, as the tour guide/tram operator talked us through the history of different rock formations.

Once we arrived at the top, I was in for a shock: it was 30 degrees cooler than it was on the ground. And while the view was amazing, I couldn’t enjoy it for more than 45 minutes; I just didn’t dress warmly enough. If you decide to ride to the top of the mountain, make sure that you prepare yourself for the temperature drop.