- NNML 2026 Day 18, July 5, Sunday
- Start outskirts of Red River
- End S6A mile 10.7 Williams Lake
- Miles walked: 22.3
I hike through Red River in early morning, using a nature trail along the river, behind the condos.
After a brief roadwalk I start on Goose Creek Trail in the Hondo Columbine Wilderness, with thick riparian growth.
The trail needs a sawyer crew.
At Goose Lake the trail climbs a steep wall of switchbacks.
Mount Wheeler and nearby peaks stand tall, and Taos Ski Valley is visible.
The NNML presents an optional 18 mile loop to climb Wheeler, the state’s tallest peak. I have never climbed it before. I have to hike 10 challenging miles to a campsite just past the peak, and it is now 1PM. The weather looks acceptable. Challenge accepted.
Wheeler Peak Trail is well-designed, which is a big help. The views are not bad at all.
Mountain goats.
A little rain comes off and on, but no thunder.
Finally, the summit.
Endless switchbacks take me to Williams Lake.
