North Truchas Peak is a beautiful peak located in a remote section of the Pecos Wilderness of Northern New Mexico near the town of Santa Fe. It is the 3rd highest peak in New Mexico (New Mexico Highest List) and is only one of 3 13ers in the state (there are 4 other 13,000 ft. points). Fortunately for North Truchas, it's remote location along with it's 137 ft. lower elevation than New Mexico's highest peak (Wheeler Peak) makes it an exponentially less visited summit for those looking for solitude.

North Truchas Peak from the summit of Chimayosas Peak

The three other Truchas Peaks (all above 13,000 ft.) are all in close proximity to the summit of North Truchas and the view is perhaps the most rugged view in all of New Mexico. The peak has an easy scramble up the east face and has two rugged 3rd class ridges connecting it to Medio Truchas to the south and Pt. 12,900 to the north. Because of it's remote location, a backpack through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country will be required for all but the most fit individuals.

Other 13,000 ft. peaks and points in New Mexico. Note: There are only 3 "official" 13ers in New Mexico. 3 more unofficial 13,000 ft. points exist but are not considered separate because the saddle between the nearest peak is too close or the saddle elevation between them does not drop far enough.

1. Wheeler Peak 13,161 ft.
Mt. Walter 13,133 ft. (not considered a separate peak)
Old Mike 13,113 ft. (not considered a separate peak)
2. South Truchas Peak 13,102 ft.
Middle Truchas Peak 13,066 ft. (not considered a separate peak)
Medio Truchas Peak 13,060 ft. (not considered a separate peak)
3. North Truchas Peak 13,024

Pecos Wilderness

The Pecos Wilderness is the second largest wilderness in New Mexico comprising 223,667 acres of the southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains and contains 10 of the highest 20 peaks in New Mexico. It was established on March 11, 1955, and became part of the National Wilderness Preservaton System on September 3, 1964.

The beautiful Pecos Wilderness as seen from Hamilton Mesa. North Truchas is in center. Copyrighted photo by bvandenzen

The Pecos is a truly spectacular wilderness consisting of high alpine lakes, rugged peaks, green mesas, wild rivers, beautiful wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Over 13 miles of the Pecos river is designated "wild" in the Wild and Scenic Rivers system. Climb the peaks, but bring a backpack and plan on staying a while.

Getting There

From Santa Fe, head east on I-25 for about 10 miles. Exit Highway 50 and drive approximately 6 miles to the town of Pecos. In Pecos, turn left on Highway 63 and drive approximately 15 miles. Turn right on the dirt county road 223 which is shortly after passing the Mora Camping Area. Drive approximately 5 miles on a rough road to the Iron Gate Trailhead.

The last 5 miles on county road 223 is rough and is not recommended for passenger cars. You can make it in one (I saw a Volkswagon Passat up there), but you will probably bottom out several times as the road is rocky, has potholes, and some rutts. Rain will make this road much worse.

Red Tape

North Truchas Peak is located in the Pecos Wilderness. Wilderness rules apply. Certain locations in the Pecos Wilderness prohibit camping. Included in these areas are Pecos Baldy Lake, the Truchas Lakes, Beatty's Cabin Area, and Pecos Falls. Please observe these restrictions in this delicate environment. There are PLENTY of other locations to camp along the trail and near the peak. No permits are required.

3 of the Truchas Peaks from the 4th (North Truchas)

Wilderness is land set aside as part of wild America, where man can be a visitor. The natural environment has not been disturbed. Travel is restricted to foot or horseback. No mechanized equipment is allowed. No fees or permits are required to enter the Pecos Wilderness other than a parking fee at some trailheads. Tread very lightly please.

As of June 11th, there was no parking fee at Iron Gate, although the message was written on a piece of tape. Jack's Creek Trailhead does have a $2 a day parking fee. Obviously these fees are subject to change at any time. Contact the Pecos Ranger District for the most recent fee information (see the U.S. Forest Service section on this page).

When To Climb

June through October are the best times to climb in the Pecos Wilderness. Monsoon thunderstorms are common in July and August (be off the summit by noon). Winter and early spring months are for experienced winter mountaineers only. Harsh weather and avalanches can be expected in the winter and spring.

Rio Quemado Falls. Photo by bvandenzen.

Camping

There are plenty of places to camp at Jack's Creek Campground or at Iron Gate. Camping is $10 a day, and parking is $2 a day if you are just using Jack's Creek for trailhead parking (free at Iron Gate). In the winter when the water is turned off there is no fee, however, the road is only plowed to Cowles which is 2 miles before the Jack's Creek campground. The dirt road to Iron Gate is not plowed to the trailhead.

For road conditions, call the Pecos Ranger District at 505.757.6121

Forest Service Information

Information on the southern trailheads and road conditions of the Pecos Wilderness.

Pecos Wilderness office (located in Pecos, NM) of the Santa Fe National Forest: (505) 757.6121

A view of North Truchas in route to South Truchas. Pt. 12,900 shown to the left of N. Truchas.

The Carson and Santa Fe National Forest service jointly manage the Pecos Wilderness. For more information click on their respective home pages:

Santa Fe National Forest
1474 Rodeo Road
Santa Fe, NM 87505

Phone:(505) 438-7840
Fax:(505) 438-7834

Santa Fe National Forest Home Page

Camino Real Ranger District (Carson National Forest)
P.O. Box 68
Penasco, NM 87553
(505)587-2255

Carson National Forest and information on any fire restrictions website

Sangre de Cristo Mountains Avalanche Information:

Note: This information pertains to the southern Colorado Sangre de Cristo mountains, however the Pecos Wilderness could be included because it is so close to the Colorado border and is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Avalanche Information website

Mountain Conditions

Images



[ View Gallery - 14 More Images ]