La Luz Trail, Hiking trail in Sandia Mountains, New Mexico, US

La Luz Trail is a hiking route in the Sandia Mountains that passes through multiple ecosystems, starting in desert scrub and rising through pine forests. The path climbs steadily upward, connecting different elevation zones with changing plant life and terrain.

The La Luz Trail Run has been held on the trail since 1965. After the Sandia Mountain Wilderness was designated in the 1970s, the Forest Service capped the race at 400 participants, with slots filled by lottery. The nine-mile course begins with 1.8 miles on Forest Road 333 and finishes at Sandia Crest after 7.2 miles of trail.

Since 1965 the trail has hosted the La Luz Trail Run, a nine-mile race that starts with 1.8 miles on Forest Road 333 and finishes at Sandia Crest after 7.2 miles of trail. After the Sandia Mountain Wilderness was designated in the 1970s, the Forest Service capped the field at 400 runners, with slots filled by lottery. Trail Runner Magazine listed it among the "12 Most Grueling Trail Races in North America" in fall 2001.

Plan for a full day outdoors and bring plenty of water and snacks, as shade is limited along the route. Mountain weather changes quickly here, so wear layers and sturdy footwear to handle the varying terrain.

The La Luz Trail Run has climbed this route since 1965; after the Sandia Mountain Wilderness was designated in the 1970s, the Forest Service capped the field at 400 runners, with slots filled by lottery. The race covers nine miles, starting with 1.8 miles on Forest Road 333 before 7.2 miles of trail to Sandia Crest. Trail Runner Magazine listed it among the "12 Most Grueling Trail Races in North America" in fall 2001.