Wheeler Peak peak
Wheeler Peak rises to 13,161 ft in Great-Basin-Ranges within the Sangre De Cristo Range range.
It is part of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range and is situated in the Wheeler Peak Wilderness within the Carson National Forest. Wheeler Peak boasts a prominent prominence of 3,409 feet (1,039 meters), making it a prominent landmark in the region.
During the winter season, Wheeler Peak experiences a significant amount of snowfall, with snowpack ranging from 50 to 150 inches (127 to 381 cm). This snowpack attracts mountaineers and winter sports enthusiasts from around the world. The mountain's snowpack also contributes to the runoff into nearby creeks and rivers, such as the Rio Hondo and the Rio Grande, providing water for surrounding areas.
The peak is named after George Montague Wheeler, a renowned explorer and surveyor who led several expeditions in the late 19th century. Wheeler Peak holds a rich history and is surrounded by fascinating legends and lore. One such legend tells the story of a hidden treasure buried somewhere on the mountain by Spanish conquistadors. Although many have searched for the treasure, it remains undiscovered. The allure of Wheeler Peak lies not only in its natural beauty and challenging terrain but also in the intriguing tales that have been woven into its history.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Great-Basin-Ranges range.
Snowpack near Wheeler Peak
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Tres Ritos | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Palo Snotel | 1 in | → |
| Gallegos Peak | 2 in | → |
| Nohrsc North Costilla | 4 in | → |
| Nohrsc Trinchera | 1 in | → |
| Ute Creek | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Gallegos Peak | 2 in | → |
| North Costilla | 4 in | → |
| Nohrsc Medano Pass | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Tres Ritos | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Ute Creek | 3 in | → |
Streamflow near Wheeler Peak
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Trinchera C Ab Turners Ranch | 5 cfs | → |
| Rio Grande Ab Mouth Trinchera C Nr Lasauses | 34 cfs | → |
| Trinchera C Ab Mtn Home Re | 3 cfs | → |
| Rio Nambe Below Nambe Falls Dam Near Nambe | 20 cfs | → |
| Trinchera Creek Below Smith Res | 0 cfs | → |
| Rio Nambe Above Nambe Falls Dam Near Nambe | 36 cfs | → |
| Mora River Near Golondrinas | 1 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Wheeler Peak
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Wheeler Peak.
Ski areas
- Ski Broadmoor
- Sandia Peak Ski Area
- Keystone Resort
- Breckenridge Ski Resort
- Taos Ski Valley
- Steamboat Ski Resort
River runs
- Long Canyon To Nf Boundary
- Headwaters To Red River/Upper Gaging Station
- Headwaters To Red River
- Goose Creek To Fawn Lakes Campground
- Headwaters To Nf Boundary
Get Wheeler Peak on your phone.
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