Santa Fe County has scheduled two hikes in the Ortiz Mountains Educational Preserve in September 2015 (see dates and hike descriptions below). The Ortiz Mountains Educational Preserve is part of the Santa Fe County Open Space program. The 1,350 acre property is located in the upper reaches of the Ortiz Mountains and includes Placer Peak, the highest peak in the Ortiz range at 8,897 ft. The site also includes historic mine shafts and mining structures left from the early/mid-nineteenth century New Mexico gold rush. Loop Trail Hike Saturday, September 12, 2015 at 9 a.m. Rating:Moderate
Distance:1.5 miles
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
This short hike takes approximately two hours. Be prepared for uphill sections of the trail. Hike among the ponderosa pines, oaks and sumac, and wander past old territorial gold mines and structures. Allow a half day for this adventure. Placer Peak Hike Friday, September 18, 2015 at 9 a.m. Rating:Strenuous/technical
Distance:4 miles
Duration:Full day
Placer Peak is the highest peak in the Ortiz Mountains at 8,897 feet (2712 meters). In contrast, the parking lot is at 7,440 feet. This is a spectacular four mile hike along a steep, technical trail. En route participants will stop to admire the views, and identify the plants and shrubs found at this elevation. The group will have lunch on the summit (you must provide your own lunch). The views from the top are outstanding. For safety, the group must stay together. | 