Santa Fe Baldy Summit (via the Windsor Trail) - Los Alamos Mountaineers / Pajarito Environmental Education Center collaborative outing

Full Description of Program

Join the Los Alamos Mountaineers (LAM) and the Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC) for a classic high-country trek to the alpine summit of Santa Fe Baldy (12,622 ft). This strenuous day hike offers an incredible opportunity to get high above tree line and experience sweeping 360-degree views of the Pecos Wilderness and the Rio Grande Valley.

Location: We will meet at 6:30 AM at the Nature Center (PEEC) in Los Alamos to carpool.  The hike starts at the Windsor Trailhead near the base of the Santa Fe Ski Basin.

Mileage: Approximately 13 miles round-trip

Grade/Difficulty: Strenuous. The route gains about 3,400 feet of elevation. The terrain follows a well-maintained trail through aspen and pine forests up to the saddle, followed by a steep, unmaintained talus and scree slope to reach the broad summit plateau.

What to Expect: A long, rewarding day at high altitude. We will maintain a moderate but steady pace. Because high-alpine summits in August are prone to early afternoon monsoons, we will start early to ensure we are off the exposed ridges before potential afternoon storms roll in. Participants must be in good physical conditioning and comfortable hiking above 10,000 feet.

What to Bring:

Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots or supportive trail shoes.

Clothing layers for variable high-alpine weather (a waterproof rain jacket and a warm mid-layer are mandatory, as the summit is often windy and cold).

Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat).

Trekking poles (highly recommended for the steep descent).

At least 3 liters of water and plenty of high-energy trail food/lunch.

Start and End Times

Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026

Time: 6:30 AM – 4:00 PM (estimated return to Los Alamos)

Maximum Attendees

12 participants