Fletcher Trail and Waterfall Canyon waterfall - Moderate but challenging

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Join Amy and me on a fun little hike off the beaten path in the Sandias. The Fletcher Trail is an unmaintained wilderness trail, acceded near the start of the Piedra Lisa Trail, that passes the UNM Spire and proceeds to a dripping spring at the base of the Shield and the beginning of a climbing area known as the Ramp, on the north side of Juan Tabo Canyon. The views are superb! This is the last weekend you can legally hike in the area till late summer, as it closed for wildlife protection and breeding from March 1-August 15. If we make good time we can bash across Juan Tabo Canyon to the 50 foot waterfall in Waterfall Canyon that was flowing pretty good last weekend. If bushwhacking and scrambling cross-country to the waterfall fills you with anxiety, don't worry, there is a trail too, (barely/sort of), that we can take too. However, the trail is no piece of cake. Plan on getting wet feet and a little scratched up no matter which route we take.

Terrain: Steep unmaintained trail plus slick rock scrambling in Waterfall Canyon where footing can be very slippery and challenging. Possible bushwhack and scramble from the off-trail route from the end of the Fletcher Trail to Waterfall Canyon.

Stats: 5 miles with about 1,500 feet of elevation gain. Physical level is moderate but the terrain is difficult in a few spots.

Hike best suited for: Hikers who like getting off the beaten path who are comfortable and confident with bushwhacking, off-trail travel, scrambling on smooth granite slick-rock, and steep terrain.

Gear: While there is still lingering snow in the bottom of most canyons in the Sandias, no traction aide is required. However, if you are uncomfortable walking on snow or ice, by all means bring a traction device. I recommend poles, shoes with good tread, sunglasses, and long pants to protect the flesh on your legs from the unfriendly brush in Waterfall Canyon. A snack and 2-3 liters of water should suffice for this short half-day hike.

Disclaimer: Hiking and scrambling have inherent dangers that may result in injuries or death. Leader is not a professional guide. If you join us, please understand that you are doing so at your own risk.