Western Face and Nambe Chutes

Approach

Start at the Windsor trailhead that starts at the Santa Fe Ski Basin parking lot. Hike to the wilderness boundary. A wooden fence marks the boundary. Go through the fence and hike about 2 miles. Here, a well marked trail to Nambe Lake will branch off to the right. If you reach the creek, you have gone too far. Follow this trail a few miles to Nambe Lake.

Route Description

From Nambe Lake you have several options: to the south (right, as you face Lake Peak) are the Nambe Chutes, steep, rocky chutes that lead up to Ravens Ridge. These are great climbs, but be prepared for very steep terrain. Snow and ice stays in these chutes well into the spring and summer. In the winter and early spring, these chutes pose significant avalanche danger. When you reach the ridge, turn left up the ridge. Climb until you reach the highest point of the ridge, Deception Peak then climb across the ridge connecting Lake and Deception peaks.

Directly to the east of Nambe Lake is the west face, a steep, open, bowl that rises about a thousand vertical feet. Climb either toward the south end of the ridge separating Lake and Deception Peaks, or the north, right below Lake peak as these are the easiest places to get onto the ridge. Once on the ridge continue north to the summit.

Essential Gear

In winter and early spring, ice axe and crampons may be necessary. Beware of avalanch danger during these times.

Images

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