La Luz Trailhead and La Luz Trail 137

The La Luz trail is 7.5 miles long. It begins at La Luz Trailhead and ends at the Crest Trail 130 near the Sandia Peak Tram Upper Terminal. The La Luz Trail 137 connects with several other trails along the way. Tramway Trail 82; Piedra Lisa-La Luz Link Trail 137C; La Luz 137B; Chimney Canyon Trail 137A and The Crest Spur Trail (leads to the Sandia Crest House)

The La Luz Trail is one of the best known trails in the Sandia Mountains. It is also one of the most challenging. The trail goes from hot desert landscape to cool Canadian forest, for a length of 7.5 miles one way. The  elevation gain is 3,200 vertical feet. It is difficult and rewarding.

Do not attempt this hike unless you are well prepared physically, and able to take care of yourself in the event of a mishap in the wilderness. If you complete the hike as described, you are in for five hours (or more) of strenuous hiking.You are also in for spectacular views and true sense of accomplishment for having hiked the trail.

• Please stay on the trail. Every year lost hikers are searched for and rescued on the La Luz Trail, with and without injury. Others have not been so fortunate and have lost their lives.
• The trail is well worn. Pay attention and follow the path.

Remember: You can also hike part of the trail. There is no rule that says you have to walk the whole trail. Use common sense when hiking. If you feel or think it is time to turn around, do so.

The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking

Please refer to the map links below to plan your course. Cell phone coverage is not guaranteed.

Sandia Crest Trails and Trailheads Map and Sandia Mountain Trail Guide

See "Safety Information" (upper right corner of the page)

At a Glance