Warning: This is a 7-8 mile, high altitude hike that should be attempted only by those who have trained properly, are in excellent physical condition and have allowed sufficient time to adjust to New Mexico's high altitude.

This is certainly our most thrilling adventure but be advised that we'll be making an elevation gain of about 2,100 feet in about 3.5 to 4 miles. The trail is fairly steep and the high altitude makes it feel a lot steeper. No special rock climbing skills are needed but to reach the highest point some rock scrambling needs to be done. This rock scrambling can be done or skipped at your discretion, as we'll already be on top of the mountain at that point.

Lake Peak is in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains high above Santa Fe. Most of the hike is through fir and spruce forest. After about 45 minutes we'll come to an overlook where we'll have breathtaking views of both Lake Peak (12,404 feet) and Santa Fe Baldy (12,622 feet). Higher up we'll reach another overlook where we'll have a beautiful view looking down on Nambe Lake. Eventually we will break out of the forest, as we climb above timberline and continue up the open slope to the summit. Here we can relax, have some lunch and take lots of photos of the spectacular views in every direction. We will need to allow 6 hours of hiking time, 3 in each direction, plus an hour on the summit.

Best time: June through September, depending on snow cover

Price: $100.00 per adult

We discourage any children under 12 from attempting this hike

 

SUMMIT OF LAKE PEAK (R), SANTA FE BALDY (L) AND TRUCHAS PEAK (13,103 FT.) CENTER HORIZON