Lower La Luz to Saddle Hike
In Sandia Mountain West Region

Map File Source: GPS Visualizer

Hike Key: H10726
Last Updated: 12/27/2023 12:43pm
Last Updated By: Marilyn Fixer
Hike Class: C (Challenging)
Hike Distance: 4.4 mi
Minimum Elevation: 7040 ft
Elevation Change: 990 ft
Total Uphill: 1530 ft
Total Downhill: 1530 ft
Avg. Grade: 8 %
Route Type: InOut
Protected: No
On Trail: Yes
Paved or Gravel Roads: Yes
GPS Advised: No
Drive Distance Round Trip: 20 mi
Drive Time One-Way: 0:30
Hiking Seasons: Spring, Fall, and Winter
New Mexico Game Unit: 8
Hike Status: In Process
Attractions: Rock Formations and Views

Highlights

Good views to the west.

Cautions

Trekking poles recommended.

Trailhead Directions

In Albuquerque go to Tramway Blvd (SR 556). On Tramway Blvd go to Forest Hwy 333 which at the north end of Tramway in the bend to the west to I-25. Follow 333 northeast into the canyon following signs to La Luz trailhead and PARK (0.0 mi) there.

Actual Hike

The trail starts at the east side of the parking lot. The trail starts east uphill, then turns south in a long traverse. After 4 switchbacks the trail heads into a canyon where TRAMWAY TR (0.9 mi) enters from the south. The trail then does 8 switchbacks up a steep slope to the left side of a SADDLE (2.2 mi). Our trail ends here.

Comments

There will be westward views for most of the hike. This hike can be hot in summer because it is westward facing, and there is little tree cover. Bring your hiking sticks — they will be useful on the way back to gain traction.

The Sandia Ranger District has set a 25-hiker limit for this area.

Waypoints

PARK N35 13.179 W106 28.815
TRAMWAY TR: N35 12.812, W106 28.501
SADDLE: N35 12.741, W106 28.174

Map Filename: LowerLaLuzToSaddleMap_MW.jpg
Hike GPS File Name: LowerLaLuzToSaddle_MW.gpx
Hike GPS File: Click link to download hike waytrack file

Text Author: Meg AdamsCameron
Map Author: Marilyn Warrant
Waypoints Author: Marilyn Warrant
Track Author: Marilyn Warrant
Maintainer: Not Assigned
Editor: Marilyn Warrant