Northern Approach
The Rio Santa Barbara Valley from the Skyline Trail below North Truchas (Northern Route)
This approach is an alternative to the southern approaches of Jack's Creek and Iron Gate. The distance to the east face of Truchas Peak will be about the same (12 miles).
From Espanola, drive approximately 20 miles north on Highway 68. Turn east on Highway 76 and drive until the Santa Barbara Trailhead turnoff to your right (I am working on the mileage, will update later). Follow this mainly dirt road until it ends at the trailhead. There may be a trailhead fee of $2 a day.
Map
I highly recommend stopping by the Camino Real Ranger District in Penasco, NM and getting the new and updated Pecos Wilderness map. The map was updated in 2004 and is much improved from the last printing. The cost of the map in 2005 was $7.
Route Description
Total elevation gain: 3800 ft.
Round trip distance: 25 miles
I have driven to the Santa Barbara Campground but I have not hiked this route. You can get a detailed description of this route here.
Essential Gear
Be in good shape if you are to attempt this peak in one day. Round trip is 24 miles with some ups and downs. Beware of afternoon thunderstorms in the summer and avalanche danger in the winter.
From late May into early June the rivers will be high. Be prepared to do a tightrope over these creeks across downed timber or you will have to wade up to your knees across slippery rocks.
Images
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Sangre de Cristo Mountains
