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First of all, the use of "easy" when discussing an attempt to summit a 13,000 foot plus peak might be a totally poor choice of words. On the other hand, such an endeavor may well be similar to the proper method to eat an elephant...one bite at a time. I am not a doctor but assuming you are in reasonably good health, don't have medical issues, are well prepared, and pace yourself, reaching the summit of Wheeler is a real possibility.

The stimulation for this short article was a Guest at Indian Hills Inn, Taos Plaza. Staying several days and wandering both the town sites and the nearby mountain trails, this 50's or 60's fellow was in basically good condition. Claims he walks 4 to 6 miles almost daily in his hometown area of Dallas, Texas.

I've been in New Mexico over 40 years, owned a business in Taos for over 33 years, have talked about doing Wheeler many times, and still haven't made the effort. That may soon change due to this fellow's suggestions which I'll write about in a few moments.

The most common means of approaching Wheeler Peak is from the Taos Ski Valley parking lot. That lot is about 20 miles from downtown Taos. The trail begins at about 9,000 foot and ends at Wheeler Peak at 13,161 feet. The 4000+ foot elevation climb takes most folks the better part of the day. As with all outdoor adventures, understanding the old boy scout adage is important. Be prepared. That means watch the weather, dress appropriately, take water, take food, take a partner.

That means do your research, visit the Forest service, check the weather, takes lots of water, dress in layers, take food. Hikes of this level are best done with a partner although many folks make the attempt alone. Yes, I'm repeating myself. Successful hikers are well prepared!

I think the easiest (everything is relative) route is to follow our Guest's plan. Drive about half of the Enchanted Circle. From Taos, drive North on NM 68 / US 64, continue North on NM 522 to Questa. Drive East on NM 38 through Red River. From Red River, drive South on 578. According to our Guest, the road quality decreases the further you go. From the parking lot at the Southern terminus of that road, your hike to Wheeler begins at an already heady 11,000 feet. That means a gain of about 2,000 feet, just about half the climb from the Taos Ski Valley lot. That's why it might be considered "easier".

A vehicle with higher clearance is a good choice if possible. Our Guest guide made the trip in his recent Mustang and said he stopped short of the terminus parking lot. He was concerned about ground clearance, rocks, etc.

A broad grin was the image of the day after his return to the Inn. He described the feeling as exhilarating. That bright mental attitude continued into the evening and the next day.

Again, "easy" is a relative term. If you are in relatively good condition, perhaps the above "easy" route to Wheeler Peak is the way to make that incredible hike to the top of New Mexico. Enjoy "Life at a higher level". Visit Taos soon! D. H. Lawrence loved New Mexico for a reason. Most of us here do too. Once you visit, you will too!

Article Source: EzineArticles.com