La Luz Trail

La Luz Trail (Trail 137) is a strenuous, one-way hike on the west face of the Sandia Mountains near Albuquerque, climbing from the La Luz Trailhead up toward the Sandia Peak Tramway area. Plan around roughly 8 miles one way with about 3,200 vertical feet of gain (more if you push to the highest-linked endpoints).

The climb is sustained and hard from the start: the trail works through multiple life-zone changes as elevation rises, and it includes a very rocky talus section commonly referred to as the “rockslide.” Terrain gets narrower and more rugged after the mid-elevation areas, with sections that can be difficult footing for tired legs.

A mid-trail turning point is common. There’s a winter warning sign around 8,900 ft indicating that the upper portion becomes snowy and impassable in winter months, and the trail above roughly the 5-mile mark is described as very snowy during winter—often requiring snow travel gear for passage.

Near the upper reaches, expect steep, switchback-heavy terrain as you near the top, with the final approach to the forked end options leading to either the tram area or onward toward Sandia Crest routes. The route connects with several nearby trails along the way, including links to the Tramway Trail and other numbered connectors in the La Luz trail system.

Logistics matter here because it’s a long, uphill effort. If you park at the La Luz Trailhead area, there is a day-use vehicle fee; vault toilets are listed at the trailhead area, and potable water is not available there.

Seasonally, the route is described as strenuous year-round: winter conditions above mid-trail can be technical and difficult to follow, while summer heat is a factor in the lower, less-shaded miles. Cell phone coverage is not guaranteed along the route, so plan for navigation without relying on signal.

More information: Official website, Visitor information, Visitor information