Hike Leader: Doug Flynn
Hike Date: March 6, 2021
Hike Distance: ~10 Miles
Elevation Gain: 4,000+ feet
It seems we will kick off the year’s challenge posts with the same as last years! The beautiful, rugged, challenging Ladrones Benchmark. This year’s route is different from last year’s, however. Last year’s route went up starting on the west, and this year’s route starts on the east. Thank you to Doug for your leadership, words, and awesome photos (and to Nick M. on photos)!!
Photo: Doug F.
One of my favorite hikes/scrambles in central New Mexico is Ladron Peak. It is a classic desert peak by any standard with rugged terrain, no trails, plenty of cacti, and beautiful scenery. This is a range and peak that I have become familiar with and have climbed the north and south ridges as well as numerous routes to the benchmark from the west side. Although the approach from the west is short and sweet, I favor the classic New Mexico Mountain Club Route established over 50 years ago on their inaugural hike. This route is challenging where things have transpired poorly on several club and outside outings. However, with a competent, prepared and fit group as well as a leader who is familiar with the route, it is no harder than any other difficult peak in New Mexico. After learning the route from Michael Grady on two separate outings, 17 and 10 years ago, I have annually led or hiked the loop solo for the last 10 years.
Photo: Doug F.
Photo: Doug F.
The route begins near a ranch and the Sevilleta National Wildlife Preserve and follows an east ridge to the summit ridge of the Benchmark Peak. The highlight of the route to the benchmark is a large dome of red colored rock near the bottom of the ridge that makes for great rock scrambling. On this trip, I was joined by four experienced club members who had no difficulties getting to benchmark. My favorite part of this loop is the scramble up Ladron Peak from the Benchmark and the route through the north facing hidden valley that has amazing rock formations that includes hoodoos, spires, fins, and domes surrounded Ponderosa trees. After taking a break on the peak we headed back to the car via the hidden valley and east canyon.
Photo: Nick M.
Photo: Doug F.
Photo: Doug F.
Photo: Doug F.
Photo: Doug F.
As always, it was an incredible hike, one that I will continue the tradition of leading for the NMMC annually as long as my body will allow me.