Every mountain climber loves a challenge, but the real payoff is when you reach the summit of a mountain and are rewarded with a gorgeous view. Although Wheeler Peak in New Mexico is not the most challenging mountain to climb, the view from the summit is well worth your day of climbing.

Part of the Sangre de Cristo Range, Wheeler Peak is the highest mountain in New Mexico and is climbed every day by excited visitors. This peak is particularly unique because the tree line extends above 12,500 feet, which is a rarity even in the southern United States.

Wheeler Peak is also one of the highest mountains in the U.S. to constitute a day hike. Most climbers reach the summit in fewer than five hours and make it down well before nightfall. This means that you can take a vacation to New Mexico and fit several climbs in during your trip rather than having to come back to try a new route or peak.

The dangerous part of climbing Wheeler Peak is the almost universal chance for rainfall. Many climbers get halfway up the mountain only to see thunderheads forming above, necessitating a descent before reaching the summit. Others climb regardless of the rain, but this is never a good idea if thunder or lightening is detected.

Since Wheeler Peak isn't a technical climb, it is possible to make a light trek to the summit. A small backpack is necessary to carry things like food, water and rope, but you won't need to haul any heavy gear.

Remember that it might be quite warm in the valley before you climb Wheeler Peak, but the temperature will likely drop several degrees by the time you reach the summit. A parka in your backpack, such as the Spiewak Yeager Jacket, will make the cold more tolerable.

And if you are looking for the most demanding route up Wheeler Peak, try the path that goes through Williams Lake. This isn't quite as beautiful as other routes, but will require more technical skill for advanced climbers.