June 2021 Cardinal Point Drive – Sandia Crest

Photo from the June 2021 Cardinal Point Drive to Sandia Crest

The New Mexico Chapter of the BMW CCA hosted another Cardinal Point driving tour on Saturday, June 26, 2021. Our initial rendezvous point was the parking lot at the Smith’s on Tramway and Central, for an early start during the morning’s cool. We were happy to welcome four new participants; Alcan Rally stalwart Ohio Knox and his copilot Patricia Colahan in his race prepped X series, and new member John Ravitch and copilot Adisa Willmer in his beautifully preserved E30 convertible. After introductions and briefing we hit the road, traveling out Historic Route 66 and the singing road before looping around to San Antonito by way of Gutierrez Canyon. After a short break on the Lazy Lizard Grill’s side porch, we then took a leisurely drive up NM 536, the Sandia Crest Scenic Highway, to the top. Despite ominous weather predictions for the afternoon, the weather was perfect, with just the right amount of sun, warmth and breeze – a wonderful top down day. After sightseeing at the crest we headed down the mountain for an excellent lunch and many tall tales at the Greenside Café in Cedar Crest. Looking forward to our next adventure, and welcoming more new (and old!) faces!

Photos by Phil Undercuffler