This season is perfect for hiking; however, hikers must observe safety regulations regularly during the activity no matter how tricky the trail system is.
Authorities issued this reminder after they discovered a hiker dead this week along the famous La Luz Trail in Sandia Mountains. Hikers heading to this mountain should never underestimate Albuquerque’s trail system.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office has identified Samuel Gurule as the man and found no signs of foul play or obvious trauma. Investigators are still continuing their work. Details remain limited as of now; however, officials say the tragedy serves as an important reminder for hikers to carefully prepare before heading to the mountains.
“Respect the mountains, respect the outdoors,” said Steve LaRese with the New Mexico Search and Rescue Council. “We want to see everybody outside. Everyone deserves to be outside.”
With hiking season in full swing, more visitors flock to trails throughout Sandias. Meanwhile, officials have closed Sandia Crest, but lower-elevation routes such as La Luz remain open and can appear manageable.
“It looks very obtainable and very two‑dimensional,” LaRese said. “But when you get in there, it’s a lot of rolling terrain.”
La Luz’s terrain features steep terrain, heat, elevation, and winding paths, where conditions can change quickly and easily turn hikers around.
“Little things turn into big things,” LaRese explained. “It’s very easy to get off the main trail and end up in a steep area or somewhere you don’t want to be.”
Authorities’ Reminders For Hikers
Search and Rescue officials emphasize that hikers must prepare critically even on shorter hikes.
The New Mexico Search and Rescue Council encourages hikers to over-prepare even if they don’t expect trouble. They recommend bringing a light source, whistle, plenty of water, and protection from the sun.
Hikers should not hesitate to call for help if something goes wrong.
“Search and Rescue in New Mexico is free,” LaRese said. “You won’t be charged for calling 911 or for a rescue team coming out to get you off the mountain.”
As temperatures continue to rise across New Mexico, hikers must closely monitor their bodies and avoid pushing themselves to their limits.
“Check your heart rate. Be realistic about your physical abilities,” LaRese said. “There’s nothing wrong with hiking two miles up and saying, ‘That’s a good day,’ and heading back. The mountain will always be there.”
One final reminder for hikers planning a summit route: never assume Sandia Tram will be operating for a ride back down.
Certain weather conditions or maintenance closures can leave hikers stranded, sometimes forcing them to face a long descent after dark.
Officials state that preparation, awareness, and knowing when to turn around can make the difference between a great hike and a dangerous situation.
