Jud and Friends Summit Wheeler Peak

In June we hiked up to the summit of Wheeler Peak which is 13,168 feet, making it the tallest mountain in New Mexico. There are a couple of ways to do this trip, and what we did was hike up the Bull O the Woods trail, a relatively straight forward hike in terms of route finding. The distance (8 miles one way) and sustained elevation gain can make it a bit of a challenge.

This is a beautiful hike through gorgeous New Mexico country. The Bull of the Woods Trail can be hiked in a day, but be sure to be below tree line before afternoon thunderstorms roll in. In other words, an early start is essential. The trail heads up along a creek bed in a fairly deep valley for the first two miles or so. As you emerge from the valley, you will encounter the Bull of the Woods Pasture, where good camping can be found.

At this point, you also encounter a turn off for Trail 64 to Gold Hill (to the Northwest). After the turn off for Trail 64, the Bull of the Woods trail makes a sharp turn to the Southeast, and continues climbing up an old mining road. The road makes a few switchbacks as it gains elevation, but eventually turns into a trail and proceeds in a Southerly direction. As you continue toward the south, the trail begins to emerge from the trees.

The trail makes a number of switchbacks as it climbs out of the basin and eventually reaches the summit of Mount Walter which, from below, is often mistaken for Wheeler Peak. From the top of Mount Walter, the trail continues along a wide ridge until it reaches the summit. From here you can relax and take in the views of the beautiful Sangre de Christos.

Once you reach the top there is a cannon and you unscrew the top and sign your name and date for proof you made it to the top! When we went down we went down the face of the mountain coming down by Williams Lake this is a wonderful place to camp and a lot of people prefer to go up this way. It is a great experience that you can laugh about later. Maybe we will see you at the top!

Judson.