Wheeler peak is the tallest peak in New Mexico standing at an elevation of 13,161 feet.
Wheeler peak lies in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the southernmost subrange of the Rocky Mountains.
There are different ways to get to the summit, the most popular trail is “Wheeler Peak via Williams Peak” an 8.1 out and back trail with an elevation gain of 2,982 feet.
The trail is well marked all the way up. The map on AllTrails is pretty accurate to follow
Wheeler Peak via Williams Lake Trail on AllTrails
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-mexico/wheeler-peak-via-williams-lake-trail
How to use AllTrails
What do you need to hike Wheeler Peak Via Williams lake?
- Sturdy Hiking shoes: Because you will be hiking for an extended amount of time on different type of terrain (uneven ground, scree, snow..) it’s important to have reliable hiking shoes, preferably water proof. Depending on what month you are hiking, some sections of the trail might be still covered in snow
- Trekking Poles: are very helpful for stability and to eliminate some pressure on your knees and back
- Pack enough water: throughout the first 0.5 mile of the trail, there are a few water streams that you can get some water from if you have a water filter or if you make your way to Williams lake.As you progress on the trail, there is no reliable water source other than a few patches of snow. Make sure you have enough water with you.
- Be prepared for snow: Before you tackle this Mountain, Check weather and trail reports. If there is still snow on the trail, make sure you pack snow crampons.
- Sweet and salty snacks
- Sunscreen and sun glasses
- Layers and rain protection: The weather changes fast in the mountains. Make sure you pack layers if the temperature drops, a rain jacket and a rain cover for your day pack.
Before climbing Wheeler Peak
- Avoid afternoon storms. During summer and fall season, afternoon storms are common in the mountain. Make sure you get an early start of the day and plan to be off the peak by noon.
- The trail can be unavailable some days of the year because of an agreement with the Indian reservation.
- There is a side trail that takes you to Williams lake. It’s a short walk but the view of the lake is very nice.
- The trail is diverse with wildlife. We came across bighorn cheep, marmots, jay birds and many other critters.
- There is a Bavarian restaurant in Taos Ski valley if you want to stop for a bite to eat at the end of your hike. There are also public restrooms that you can use.
This hike is certainly not a walk in the park but the reward is well worth the effort. Enjoy your hike and stay safe.