White Horse Hill (10,207') via Crest Trail just outside Ski Apache Parking Lot

White Horse Hill (10,207’) via Crest Trail from Ski Apache Parking Lot in Ruidoso (Advanced-Level Hike)

*Please read carefully! If you have questions, please ask! We don’t need unnecessary casualties on our adventure!*

Join us for a meaningful climb to White Horse Hill near Ruidoso as part of 22 Peaks Project. Together, we’ll raise awareness of the 22 veterans who die by suicide every day, honor their memory, and support Mission 22, a nonprofit organization working hard to save veteran lives across the country. This is more than a hike—it’s a journey of faith, community, and transformation.

EVENT DETAILS:
When:

• Saturday, June 14th, 2025
• 0730: Meetup - safety brief - prayer
• 0745: Start hiking

Where:
Scenic Trailhead, just before the entrance to Ski Apache
1286 Ski Run Rd
Nogal, NM 88312

How:
We’ll start just outside the Ski Apache parking lot, take the Crest Trail (T25) to the junction with T44 Three Rivers Trail, up the "hill" to White Horse Hill, then head back the way we came, but intersect the Sierra Blanca Trail (a dirt road under the ski lifts) back to the parking lot. If time and weather allow, we can summit Lookout Mountain again.

Hike Info:

• Peak Elevation: 10,207’
• Distance: 11-13 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: ~3,800’
• Duration: ~6 hours
• Trail Rating: Class 1-2
• Effort Level: Very Strenuous - This is an advanced-level hike. There are many downed trees to climb over and a lot of time above 10,000'. There is a possibility of an afternoon thunderstorm, so we will have to move fast.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENT:
To participate, please provide proof of a $22 donation to Mission 22. Donations can be made here: https://mission22.com/give/

WHAT TO BRING:
This hike is demanding, and being prepared is crucial for safety and success. Every participant must bring the following:

1. The Ten Essentials:

• Navigation (map, compass, or GPS)
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
• Insulation (layers appropriate for changing weather)
• Illumination (headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries)
• First aid kit
• Fire starter (waterproof matches or lighter)
• Multi-tool or pocket knife
• Bring a space blanket or something to provide warmth and protection for emergencies.
• Extra food and water
• Hydration system with a minimum of 100oz of water, with electrolytes (DripDrop, LMNT, or Nuun recommended)

2. Other Essentials:

• Make sure your footwear is in solid shape and broken in.
• Extra socks just in case
• Trekking poles (optional but very helpful)
• Portable battery pack for phones/electronics

BE PREPARED FOR NEW MEXICO CONDITIONS:
This is New Mexico—be ready to encounter sun, heat, wind, possible thunderstorms, rain, downed trees, and perhaps snakes. Wear protective clothing, use sunblock, and stay alert on the trail.

WHY WE CLIMB:
This climb is about honoring lives, overcoming challenges, and growing in faith. We’ll reflect on life’s struggles and how we can overcome them together through Scripture and community.
Guiding Verses:

• Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
• Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you…”
• Luke 6:12: “In those days, He went up the mountain to pray…”

Let’s climb for the Lord. Let’s climb for each other. Let’s climb for the 22 veterans who take their lives every day.

Sign up now to reserve your spot and climb with purpose!