The problem with most mountain climbing in the United States is the crowds. As soon as people realize that a particular summit presents a challenge, the traffic to and from that peak is formidable. For many mountain climbers, it is the peace and seclusion as much as the challenge that draws them out of doors.
The trick, therefore, is to find mountain summits that provide privacy as well as technical difficulty. Old Mike Peak in Taos County, New Mexico, is one such destination. As part of the enchanted circle, it provides a stunning view and more than a few rough spots, but most of the traffic is headed to Wheeler Peak.
Old Mike Peak reaches 13,113 feet in elevation, and although it doesn't make the nation's shortlist of highest peaks, it is one of the most breathtaking. There are two major ascents from the base - one from the horseshoe lake trail and one from the Taos ski valley - both of which present challenges on the climb.
If you want to really get your feet wet on a U.S. climb, you should know that you can summit Old Mike Peak in the winter. Many winter sports enthusiasts climb Old Mike Peak with nothing but their snowshoes and an ice pick, trudging through deep ditches and over rocky ledges to the summit. This is not recommended, however, unless you have snowshoe experience.
Most people make Old Mike Peak a two-day hike, as there are plenty of opportunities for camping. The laws of the Wheeler Wilderness prohibit camping within 300 feet of water, but other than that there are plenty of paces to pitch a tent. One of the most beautiful is the meadow near the Horseshoe Trail opening, but there are also wide portions near the summit where camping is popular.
If you'll be climbing Old Mike Peak in the winter, make sure to bring an ice ax for the trip. The ice is thickest and most treacherous during January and February, but you should bring an ax as long as there is snow on the ground.
