Mount Taylor CDT-Gooseberry Loop

About this event

See SWEL trip report posted in photos.

ALWAYS READ ENTIRE HIKE DESCRIPTION AND CHECK BACK DAY OF HIKE FOR ANY UPDATES

Length: 6.0 mi with 1.2 mile car shuttle, or 7.2 without Gain: 2100 ft 4–4.5 hr Estimated time Loop Hike with a road segment Rating: ModeratePlus

This trail can be challenging due to the significant elevation gain on a steady uphill climb to the peak. Some downhill sections of the trail can be steep. The journey begins under the canopy of the pines, then transitions to an aspen grove, and eventually travels through grasslands on the way to the summit. With sweeping views in all directions for over half the hike, the trail has a lot of variety to offer. The descent portion of our loop hike is described here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-mexico/mount-taylor-via-gooseberry-springs-trail However we will get more variety and a more gentle ascent by using the CDT to connect to an old road to the top, as described in the posted report in photos.

This event is joint-posted with SW Explorers League, and I will lead the slower contingent, while Mark Dunham will lead the faster group. Hopefully, we will all meet at the top for lunch, and definitely for dinner in ABQ on the way home. Our preferred dinner venue will be M'Tucci's Italian in Nob Hill on Central Ave.

As always come prepared with more water then you think you need, proper foot wear, pole(S), hat, sunscreen, lunch, etc. Maybe wear layers and definitely bring rain shower protection. This is not an easy hike; but it is only a bit more than Atalaya from Saint Johns TH. But it is so worth it! More info to come so start preparing now.

Round trip driving distance is approximately 300 miles and 5 hours. This is why we are leaving so early. Please give your driver at least $20. We will go for dinner after if there is interest. Dogs who are friendly and can make the climb are welcome.

Release and Waiver. By attending, the Participant releases the Event Leaders from liability arising from the Event and assumes all risks of the Event, including: 1) injuries from falls, living things, pre-existing health conditions, vehicles, and weather, and 2) injuries resulting from the Event Leaders not undertaking the least risky option available (e.g., hiking a steep slope instead of a gentle slope) or not treating an injury in the optimal way (e.g., due to insufficient training). The preceding sentence supplements any other exculpatory arrangement to which the Participant is subject.

From Moderate Hiking for Mellow People