Using a state map, I found my way to the parking area of Taos Ski Valley where the trailhead for Wheeler Peak can be found. I blindly followed signs for the peak having no idea where it was until I was on top. The route I took traversed over a couple of peaks to get to Wheeler so each one was a disappointing false summit. Luckily I had lots of time and the scenery was excellent most of the hike. Turns out I took the scenic but easier route to the summit. There was a more direct way but it was not signed. The summit had a big register and some memorial sign. I was a bit bothered that several nearby peaks looked higher but the people on top and the summit register assured me we were on the state highpoint.
Visiting Taos on a family vacation, I saw on the state map that the state highpoint was nearby. Just a few days before, I had climbed the Texas highpoint of Guadalupe Peak. I realized on that trip that maybe it would be a lifetime goal to summit the highest peak in every state. If I did New Mexico, I could have 4 states (I had done Rainier and Hood). I would have had my brother with me but he was still recovering from his virus infection he got eating in Mexico
Wheeler Peak - New Mexico Highpoint
WillhiteWeb.com: Hiking, Climbing and Travel
Distance: 7.2 miles (Bull of the Woods Route)
Elevation Gain: 3,761 feet
Summit Elevation: 13,161 feet
Access: Paved
Plaque on the summit
Views from the trail
On the summit
Views from the summit
In route to the summit
Looking back at trail over Mount Walter
