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La Luz Trail

Difficult Difficult
 4.7 (48)
  1. Areas
  2. NM
  3. …Central New Mexico
  4. Albuquerque
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“A popular, trail that rewards hikers with amazing views of Albuquerque and the Sandia Mountains. ”

Jason Fincher
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Map Key

7.7

Miles

12.3

KM

Point to Point

10,287' 3,135 m

High

7,033' 2,144 m

Low

3,467' 1,057 m

Up

213' 65 m

Down

9%

Avg Grade (5°)

40%

Max Grade (22°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Views · Wildflowers

The trail is open from sunrise to sunset daily. It is usually impassible after five miles in the winter months due to snow. It can also be closed due to fire danger in summer months. Check trail conditions before heading out here.

Description

From Interstate 25, take exit 234 - Tramway Road NE (Route 556) to the East for 4 miles. Turn left (North) on Juan Tabo. Look for signs on the right that will take you to the La Luz Trailhead. There is a $3 parking fee per car, cash only.

The trail is well worn and marked. The lower trail is crisscrossed by a spider web of secondary trails. Just stay on the most worn path. This is a strenuous climb from the start and should not be tackled without some preparation and the proper equipment. The peak is much cooler than the trailhead, especially in the spring and fall. Warm layers should be carried. There are no points on this trail to collect water and during the summer it can be very hot. Hikers should carry at least two quarts of water per person and plan for lunch or snacks along the way.

This can be done as a one-way or an out-and-back. Mileage shown is for a one-way trip. One-way hikers can enjoy a tram ride down from the peak for $15. Out-and-back hikers should plan for an early start to have light for their descent.

Flora & Fauna

This trail passes through three distinct climate zones. The lower trail is consistent with the Albuquerque highlands characterized by sparse high desert scrub forest with juniper and piñon pines as well as cholla cactus and prickly pear. The middle portion of the trail is shaded by an alpine forest of ponderosa pines and spruces. The upper trail continues to display the evergreens in greater density as well as groves of quaking aspen. Wild flowers are abundant in the later spring and early summer.

Contacts

Land Manager: USFS - Cibola National Forest Office

Shared By:

Jason Fincher with improvements by Jon Stoked
Full Details

Trail Ratings

  4.7 from 48 votes

#1

in Albuquerque

#39

Overall
  4.7 from 48 votes
5 Star
77%
4 Star
21%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
2%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#1

in Albuquerque

#1

in New Mexico

#39

Overall
49 Views Last Month
12,230 Since May 12, 2015
Difficult Difficult
0%
0%
13%
10%
71%
6%
Add a Photo

Photos

Snow! - look for the dog.
Jul 1, 2024 near Sandia…, NM
Nice clouds and sunbeams, but no light on the aspens and cliffs, b/c g0d hates me. Why?!
Oct 17, 2021 near Sandia…, NM
The radio towers can be seen if you look closely
May 25, 2019 near Sandia…, NM
More scenic views from the trail
May 25, 2019 near Sandia…, NM
View from one of the many switchbacks.
May 25, 2019 near Sandia…, NM
Granite everywhere!!
Jun 7, 2018 near Sandia…, NM

0 Comments

Weather

Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 61 days ago
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Check-Ins

Oct 13, 2024
Adam Longbotham
7.7mi
Sep 21, 2023
Stewart Carnes
I did the La Luz Trail # 137 and Chimney Trail 137A Loop
Aug 11, 2023
Ike Lee
Great hike! Start early. We sweated a lot on the first half because of the sun & heat. Bring food & lots of water. Beautiful scenery. — 7h 00m
May 20, 2023
Marissa Montano
May 14, 2023
Chris P Shawarma
Mother's Day March. Casual day out. — 4h 50m
Apr 8, 2023
Private User
Feb 18, 2023
Christian Perez
May 12, 2022
Dustin S

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