La Luz Trail Race

Race - Aug 4, 2019

Dogs Leashed

Features Views · Wildflowers

Point to point starts on 2 miles of paved road which climbs 1000 feet. The last 7 miles on trail includes some rockslide areas & lots of switchbacks. This race travels through the Sandia Mountain Wilderness Area.

To the trailhead: From Interstate 25, take exit 234 - Tramway Road NE (Route 556) to the East for 4 miles. Turn left (North) on Juan Tabo. Look for signs on the right that will take you to the La Luz Trail. There is a $3 parking fee per car, cash only.

The trail is well-worn and marked. The lower trail is crisscrossed by a spider web of secondary trails. Just stay on the most worn path. This is a strenuous climb from the start and should not be tackled without some preparation and the proper equipment. The peak is much cooler than the trailhead, especially in the spring and fall. Warm layers should be carried. There are no points on this trail to collect water and during the summer it can be very hot. Runners should carry at least two quarts of water per person and plan for lunch or snacks along the way.

This can be done as a one-way or an out-and-back. Mileage shown is for a one-way trip. One-way runners can enjoy a tram ride down from the peak for $12. Out-and-back runners should plan for an early start to have light for their descent.

This trail passes through three distinct climate zones. The lower trail is consistent with the Albuquerque highlands characterized by sparse high desert scrub forest with juniper and piñon pines as well as cholla cactus and prickly pear. The middle portion of the trail is shaded by an alpine forest of ponderosa pines and spruces. The upper trail continues to display the evergreens in greater density as well as groves of quaking aspen. Wildflowers are abundant in the later spring and early summer.