Wheeler Peak hike

On Sunday, October 6, we will attempt the Wheeler Peak via Williams Lake trail head.  This is the highest peak in New Mexico over 13,000 feet. It offers outstanding full panoramic views.  The round trip mileage is about 8-9 miles with significant elevation gain of more than 3000 feet.  Much of the trail is above the tree line with the final 1000 feet being rock scree slope.  This is an extremely strenuous trip and participants should be prepared and in shape for the challenge.  

The group will meet at the White Rock Y (intersection of highways NM4 and NM502) at 6:30 a.m. to carpool to the trail head (you can also drive to the trail head on your own, the trip leader will contact participants the week before).  Being above the tree line during the hike necessitate the early morning start. We will visit the Williams Lake on the way down. The drive to the trail head is about 2 hours. This will be an all-day outing and the group will return to Los Alamos in the early evening.  Hikers should dress for the weather in layers and the rain gear is mandatory! Bring plenty of water and snacks; a hearty lunch as well as sun protection including a hat and sunscreen. If you have hiking poles, please bring them since they could be very helpful on hiking down the steep trail with loose rocks.

In contacting the leader, participants will be asked about their experience in the recent climbs of this nature. The hike is also subject to postponement in the face of an unfavorable weather condition, or may be terminated by the trip leader if conditions deteriorate during the day.