We took the Bull of the Woods trail up to the summit and came down above William's Lake - so I could go for a quick swim and cool off at the end of our hike. For this hike, we also left lil sis with her human grandparents. She's turning into quite the little hiker, but this would have been a bit too much for her little legs.
The beginning of the trail was so lush and serene. Many folks don't realize how green New Mexico can be until they climb into the mountain valleys. One of my favorite terrains in the world!
Ah, this is glorious! I love frolicking through the mountain meadows!
After a strenuous upward climb, we reached the tree line and began traversing over to Wheeler Peak. Wheeler Peak is formerly known as Taos Peak. It was renamed in 1950 in honor of George Montague Wheeler (1842-1905) who for ten years led parties of surveyors and naturalists collecting geologic, biologic, planimetric and topographical data in New Mexico and throughout the southwest.
The views from up here were incredible!
Looking down into Taos Ski Valley.
I had a blast exploring the terrain and running through the open mountain fields. Can you spot me?
View of Horseshoe Lake looking towards Red River.
We reached the top! At this point, we were the highest ones standing at 13,161 feet in New Mexico! Woof woof!
My human mama and I had to dance in celebration!
The ground smelled so fresh and so clean up here! After enjoying ourselves and the perfect weather at the top, we began our descent down to William's Lake. The hike down was a bit treacherous navigating through the rock field, but we made it!
Squirrel?!
Didn't catch the squirrel, but we saw bighorn sheep grazing on the mountainside.
View of William's Lake.
At last, we made it to William's Lake. It felt wonderful to cool off in the lake.
What a pawfect hike and pawfect day!
-Roxie
