Exploratory Hike: San Mateo Peak in the Apache Kid Wilderness

Time: 6:30am (please be prompt because we will leave by 6:35am)

Who Should Attend: Only adventurous hikers who have and are physically capable of hiking 8+ miles. Also, must have gear for cold weather hiking.

Hike Description: Exploratory means that I have not done this hike before, so while I have researched the trails, the opportunity to make a wrong turn and possibly lose the trail at times is probable. If that makes you anxious, please do not attend this hike.

One of the least visited mountains in New Mexico, the San Mateo mountains stretch from the high Plains of the San Agustin to the Rio Grande Valley above Elephant Butte Lake. The mountains are located west of Soccoro and T & C.

We will depart from the Springtime Campground (7,360ft) and hike to San Mateo Peak on Trail #43 (10,139 ft). This hike is strenuous due to approximately 3,000ft of elevation gain in 4 miles. Once we reach the peak we will head down the Cowboy trail to form a balloon loop. I called the forest service and there will be about four or five inches of snow at the top. Also, the forest service asked if we could report the number of trees down on the trail too. I will have a map, compass and GPS.

Afterwards, for those interested, we will stop for dinner at the Socorro Springs Brewing Company.

Required Items to Bring:

• Traction devices for your boots (Personally, I like microspikes)

• Gaiters to keep the snow out of your boots

• Headlamp (just in case)

Vehicle Required: Once we exit I-25, we will travel 13 miles on a dirt road. While most passenger vehicles will probably be able to handle it, there are some larger rocks in the washes, so a more off-road type vehicle will be better suited.

Unplugged Hike: This means that cell phones need to be turned off during the hike.

Donation Request: If you enjoy the Albuquerque Hiking and Outdoor Meetup group, please consider donating $1 to help with the annual website fee. I will be collecting any donations and giving it to our new meetup lead organizers. Thanks!

Dog Policy: Not allowed this time.

Weather Notice: If inclement weather looks imminent, please check this site 45 minutes prior to 6:30am.