Conquering Sandia Peak: A 20-Mile Backpacking Adventure

Setting Out on Our First Backpacking Adventure

As the sun rose on a crisp autumn morning, my partner Christy and I set out on our very first multi-day backpacking trip. Our destination? The majestic Sandia Peak in New Mexico. We had hiked portions of the mountain before, but this would be our first time attempting to reach the summit - and we were determined to earn that view.

With our backpacks loaded up with all the essentials - tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and more - we caught an Uber to the trailhead at the base of the mountain. The weight of our packs was daunting at first, but we were too excited to let it dampen our spirits. This was going to be an adventure unlike any we'd experienced before.

Day 1: The Grueling Climb Begins

We set off around 1 PM, giving ourselves plenty of daylight to make it to our planned campsite near South Peak. The trail started off deceptively easy, winding through desert scrub and cacti. But it wasn't long before the incline increased dramatically and we found ourselves huffing and puffing up steep switchbacks.

As we climbed higher, the landscape transformed around us. Cacti gave way to towering pines and aspens. The air grew cooler and thinner. We took frequent breaks to catch our breath and marvel at the expanding views of Albuquerque sprawling out below us.

About halfway up, my stomach started to rebel against me. Whether it was altitude sickness or just the exertion, I found myself battling waves of nausea. We had to slow our pace considerably as I stopped frequently to rest and let the queasiness pass. Christy was incredibly patient and supportive, never complaining about the delays.

Despite the setbacks, we pressed on. As the sun began to sink lower in the sky, we finally reached the ridge near South Peak where we planned to make camp for the night. Exhausted but triumphant, we set up our tent in a small meadow with breathtaking views of the city lights twinkling far below.

A Night Under the Stars

After getting our campsite situated, we prepared our freeze-dried backpacking meals for dinner. They weren't gourmet by any means, but after the day's exertion they tasted like a feast. We sat outside the tent as we ate, watching the sunset paint the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks.

As darkness fell, the temperature dropped rapidly. We bundled up in our warmest layers and crawled into our tent. Sleep did not come easily that night. Every rustle and snap in the forest around us had us on high alert. Was that a bear? A mountain lion? Just the wind? Our imaginations ran wild in the pitch blackness.

When we did manage to doze off, our dreams were filled with images of shadowy figures lurking just outside the thin nylon walls of our tent. It was far from restful, but it was all part of the adventure.

Day 2: Onward to the Summit

We awoke at first light, eager to break camp and continue our journey. After a quick breakfast of instant coffee and oatmeal, we packed up our gear and hit the trail once more. Our muscles were sore from the previous day's climb, but the crisp mountain air invigorated us.

The trail along the ridge was less steep than the day before, but still challenging with our heavy packs. We made steady progress, stopping occasionally to refuel with trail mix and take in the increasingly spectacular views.

As we hiked, we encountered more fellow outdoor enthusiasts - day hikers and trail runners who seemed impressed by our loaded backpacks. There was a sense of camaraderie on the trail, everyone encouraging each other onward.

Around midday, we reached South Peak proper. The 360-degree panorama from the top was breathtaking. We could see for miles in every direction - the sprawling city of Albuquerque, the Rio Grande winding through the valley, and endless mountain ranges fading into the distance. It made all the effort to get there completely worth it.

The Final Push to the North Peak

After soaking in the views from South Peak, we still had several miles to go to reach our ultimate destination - the North Peak where the famous Sandia Peak Tramway station and restaurant awaited. This last leg tested our endurance to the limit.

Our water supplies were running dangerously low and fatigue was setting in. But the promise of a cold drink and hot meal at the top spurred us onward. We took turns carrying the heavier pack, supporting each other both physically and mentally.

As we neared the summit, the terrain became rockier and more exposed. The wind picked up, chilling us despite the afternoon sun. But finally, after what seemed like an eternity of putting one foot in front of the other, we rounded a bend and saw it - the tram station and restaurant perched on the very top of the mountain.

With a final burst of energy, we practically ran the last few hundred yards. We had done it! We had climbed over 5,000 feet in elevation over nearly 20 miles to reach the peak. The sense of accomplishment was indescribable.

Celebrating at the Top

Stumbling into the mountaintop restaurant felt surreal after two days in the wilderness. We must have looked (and smelled) quite a sight to the other patrons who had simply ridden the tram up. But we didn't care - we had earned our place there.

We ordered enormous burgers, fries, and ice-cold beers. It was quite possibly the best meal of our lives. As we ate, we reminisced about the highlights of our journey - the stunning vistas, the camaraderie on the trail, overcoming our fears and doubts.

After lunch, we explored the observation deck, taking in the sweeping views we had worked so hard to reach. Far below, we could trace the path of our ascent all the way back to where we had started the day before. It was hard to believe we had covered so much ground on foot.

The Scenic Tram Ride Down

With our bodies thoroughly exhausted, we were grateful we didn't have to hike back down the mountain. Instead, we boarded the famous Sandia Peak Tramway for a scenic 15-minute ride to the base.

The tram swayed gently as it descended, offering spectacular views of the canyons and forest below. It was a bit nerve-wracking at first, dangling from a cable so high up. But after what we had just accomplished, a tram ride seemed like nothing.

As we disembarked at the bottom, the reality of our achievement began to sink in. We had pushed ourselves further than we ever had before, both physically and mentally. We had faced our fears, supported each other through challenges, and come out stronger on the other side.

Reflections on Our Journey

Looking back, our Sandia Peak backpacking trip was so much more than just a hike. It was a test of our endurance, our problem-solving skills, and our partnership. We learned valuable lessons about preparation, perseverance, and the importance of teamwork in the outdoors.

The experience gave us a newfound appreciation for the raw beauty and power of nature. Standing on that mountaintop, looking out over the vast New Mexico landscape, we felt small yet incredibly alive. It reminded us of why we seek out these adventures in the first place - to challenge ourselves, to connect with the natural world, and to create lasting memories together.

While the journey was difficult at times, the sense of accomplishment made it all worthwhile. We returned home with sore muscles, a few scrapes and bruises, and a deep satisfaction in what we had achieved. Our first backpacking trip certainly won't be our last.

For anyone considering taking on a similar challenge, we would offer this advice: prepare well, but don't let fear hold you back. The mountains are calling - answer them. You may surprise yourself with what you're capable of accomplishing. Just remember to respect nature, leave no trace, and savor every moment of the journey.

Our Sandia Peak adventure will always hold a special place in our hearts. It marks the beginning of what we hope will be many more backpacking trips to come. The mountains are waiting, and we can't wait to explore them further - one step at a time.

Tips for Aspiring Backpackers

For those inspired to try backpacking for themselves, here are a few key takeaways from our experience:

• Start small and work your way up to longer, more challenging trips
• Invest in quality gear, especially comfortable hiking boots and a well-fitting backpack
• Plan your route carefully and always let someone know your itinerary
• Pack light, but don't skimp on essentials like water, food, and first aid supplies
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions
• Practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment
• Listen to your body and don't push beyond your limits
• Take time to enjoy the journey, not just the destination

With proper preparation and a positive attitude, backpacking can open up a world of adventure and natural beauty. So lace up those hiking boots, strap on that pack, and hit the trail - your own mountain is waiting to be conquered.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNPYn-KKnF0