Hiking in the Sandia Mountains in Albuquerque, NM
Hiking is all about spending time surrounded by stunning scenery, fresh air, and the sounds and smells of nature. It is as important to your body as it is to your mood and mind. Hiking is a mood booster. Hiking takes you outside, away from civilization, where you can take in and enjoy all the natural surroundings while doing something good for your body. Hiking is an opportunity to breathe in the fresh air, explore the wonders of nature, and find peace in a tranquil environment. Hiking is as energizing as it is relaxing.
Hiking the La Luz Trail in the Sandia Mountains
The La Luz Trail is a popular hike for those who enjoy a challenge. The trail claims to be approximately 8 miles one way ascending from the base of the Sandia Mountains and reaches to the observation deck of the Sandia Peak Tramway. The trail climbs gradually uphill from the very beginning. With no tree cover, the initial part of the hike is open with visible skies. The start of the hike is not the most scenic in regards to the view of the city, but as you climb up you are greeted with glimpses of Albuquerque and the Rio Grande Valley. The further you climb the more breathtaking the views. There are lots of cactus and other desert plants along the trail as well.
The trail starts to come closer to some of the high steep rock formations on the mountain the further up the trail you go. The temperature will drop, and the scenic views become more awe inspiring as this trail meanders up toward the top of the mountain. You go through what looks like a fairytale forest in this middle part of the route, and groups of brightly colored aspen trees catch your eyes. Also, you tend to see various species of wildlife and their ever-exploring existence along the trail. The trail goes through a transition region as you walk through miles where the scenery changes from a desert landscape, to an impressive rock slide, to a cool forest full of Aspen, Pine, and Spruce trees.
When you finally reach the observation deck, you can take in spectacular views of the city. You can see Albuquerque if you look to the west and the ski slopes and more of the forested mountain to the east of the observation deck. The tram ride down the mountain is breathtaking, as well, and offers some impressive views. If you don’t want to hike another 8 miles down the mountain, then you can enjoy a quick trip down the mountain on the Sandia tram.
Health Benefits of Hiking
- Tones the Entire Body
Regular walking will get your butt and legs in great shape, but climbing up steep hills, using trekking poles to move you forward, and clambering over rocks gives your body a complete workout. Physiologically, you’re going to work your entire body, especially the lower body — the glutes, hamstrings, and quads in particular. Carrying a backpack adds to the development of body strength and challenges endurance as well.
- Lower Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
In general regular exercise strengthens the heart. Regular walking through the trails improves circulation which decreases blood pressure and cholesterol gradually and thus reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke for those at high risk. Hiking downhill is potentially twice as effective in reducing blood sugars and enhancing glucose tolerance.
● Distancing Yourself from Worries
When you go hiking the mental rewards are almost infinite. The mind has a chance to view the world in a whole new way by distancing itself from a daily routine. Being in nature allows the mind to shift the scenery from what is normal, shifting focus so that life feels less difficult as it did before. For those who are worried about the dangers of hiking alone, find a companion who loves going on hiking adventures. Hiking is an amazing exercise. It doesn’t feel like a workout when you have a friend along for the adventure.
Preparation for a Great Hiking Experience
The trail weather varies greatly depending on the time of a year and can change from very hot to cold and snowy. Be sure to check weather conditions before hiking and pack accordingly. There may be snow and ice patches on the mountain while hiking in winter or spring, so trekking poles and hiking shoes with good traction is essential for hiking safely up the mountain. La Luz is already a difficult trail to climb when it’s warm outside, but when it’s icy it may be impossible to hike.
Some parts of the trail are long stretches of rocks and loose gravel, so you’ll need good hiking shoes with good traction for firm stepping. Besides, hiking shoes will save your feet if you unintentionally kick a cactus.
There is no food or water on the trail. Make sure to be prepared with enough food, water, and different layers of hiking clothes because this hike, just like the weather, can be unpredictable.