Overview
The Latir Peak Wilderness in the northern section of Carson National Forest is one of the least-visited protected areas in New Mexico. The 20,506-acre wilderness sits near the Colorado border in the northern Sangre de Cristo Range, and the rough access roads that deter casual visitors are a feature for hikers who value solitude. The 9-mile route covered here reaches the Latir Lakes basin and the base of Latir Peak above 12,700 feet, crossing through terrain that sees only a handful of parties on most summer weekends.
The route gains 2,800 feet over 4.5 miles, a sustained effort that places it in the strenuous category. The lower trail follows the Latir Creek drainage through dense spruce-fir forest before climbing steeply to the upper basin. The Latir Lakes are the destination: a series of alpine lakes in a broad cirque that holds snow into midsummer. Above the lakes, the talus slopes rise toward the summit of Latir Peak, which is accessible to experienced hikers as an extension of the day hike or backpacking trip.
For the Cabresto Lake approach to the northeastern side of the Latir wilderness, see that separate guide.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2: Latir Creek to Wilderness Entry. The trail begins along Latir Creek in a tight canyon of spruce-fir forest. The lower trail is well-worn from the limited but consistent traffic that uses this approach. The grade is steep from the start. The creek is crossed twice in the lower canyon; crossings can be challenging in early season. The wilderness boundary is reached at approximately mile 2.
Miles 2 to 4: Wilderness Climb. Above the wilderness boundary, the trail becomes less defined as it climbs through increasingly open terrain. Cairns mark the route on the upper sections. The forest opens into krummholz and tundra approaching mile 4. The Latir Lakes become visible ahead as the trail crests a minor ridge.
Miles 4 to 4.5: Lake Basin. The trail descends slightly to the main Latir Lake at mile 4.5. Multiple lakes are visible from this vantage point. The basin is surrounded by peaks above 12,000 feet. This is the designated turnaround for the day hike route; strong hikers can continue to Latir Peak's summit via use trails from the basin.
When to Visit
July through September. The upper basin and access road typically don't clear until early to mid-July in average years. September is the best month for solitude and stable weather. Monsoon thunderstorms in July and August make the exposed upper basin a lightning hazard; plan to be below treeline by early afternoon.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry the following for this strenuous route:
- Bear canister or food hang system (see bear canister requirements)
- Water filter (creek and lake water must be treated)
- Wind and rain protection for the exposed upper basin
- Trekking poles for creek crossings and steep descent
- Navigation: downloaded offline topo map essential (trail markings are sparse above treeline)
- Extra food for a strenuous 9-mile day at altitude
Review Leave No Trace principles for high-impact alpine wilderness camping.
Practical Details
No permit required (as of 2026). No trailhead facilities. Dispersed camping permitted throughout the wilderness. The trail is managed by the Questa Ranger District of Carson National Forest. Cell service is nonexistent from the trailhead into the wilderness; file a trip plan before departing.
Getting There
From Questa, take NM Highway 563 north and follow forest road signs toward the Latir Creek drainage. The specific forest road to the trailhead is unpaved and rough; high-clearance is strongly recommended. The drive from Questa is approximately 30 minutes on forest roads. Total drive from Taos is approximately 60 to 70 minutes via NM-522 to Questa and then forest roads north. Confirm the current road condition and routing with the Questa Ranger District before departing.