More than 400 NM Tech students, alumni, and community members gather in the early morning during alumni week to climb M Mountain, the peak looming over Socorro. Some will bring 50 pound backs of crushed marble (less caustic than lime) to refresh the “M” on top, which we can see as dawn breaks.
Several buses shuttle us to the base of the mountain. 364 days a year, the mountain is closed to hikers, but on this one day we get to climb to the top. Equipment nearby explains one reason the mountain is closed: explosive testing.
(I like to think that Acme Corporation tests its explosives here before sending them to Coyote for his schemes to catch Roadrunner.)
The route up the mountain is hard to find at first, and then narrows to a faint trail through creosote bush, cacti, and mesquite.
Past a final ridge canopies are set up with snacks and drinks, just before the final steep climb, where we are at the “M”.
Students gratefully spread their crushed marble and lighten their load. Wiring shows how the “M” is lit up at night.
Climbing above the “M”, we enjoy the views.
Finally, we make our way down to the canopies, and waiting shuttles to take us to buses, to bring us back to the golf pavilion for burgers and hot dogs and T-shirts. A fine but challenging day. Bring trekking poles, if you dare to try it yourself.