Sangre de Cristo Mountains
The Sangre de Cristo Mountains form a dramatic boundary between Colorado and New Mexico, characterized by rugged peaks, alpine passes, and historic valleys. Visitors come to hike, climb, and ski under high granite and limestone ridges—highlighted by Wheeler Peak and San Luis Valley. Trails link national forests, pueblos, and national park areas, offering both strenuous summits and peaceful valley walks.
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Geography
| Address | Sangre de Cristo Range, NM/CO borderSangre de Cristo Range |
|---|---|
| Continent | North America |
| Region | Southern Rockies |
| Subregion | Southern Rocky Mountains |
| Country | United StatesMexico |
| State | ColoradoNew Mexico |
| County | Alamosa CountyCostilla CountyHuerfano CountyTaos County |
| District | Sangre de Cristo Range |
| City | Taos |
| Neighborhood | Angel Fire Resort |
| Postal Code | 87571 |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 36.5 |
| Longitude | -105 |
| Maps |
12:54 PM LOCAL TIMEThe Sangre de Cristo Mountains rise sharply along the border of Colorado and New Mexico, creating a striking natural barrier and cultural divide. The range is known for high granite peaks like Wheeler Peak (13,161 ft/4,011 m), and limestone ridges, dense forests, and high-altitude tundra at longer crossings such as the Great Divide Basin. Key subregions include the Alamosa and Huerfano Valleys, the San Luis Valley, and headwaters near Taos and Angel Fire. Popular activities include day hikes, multi-day backpacking, skiing and snowboarding in winter resorts, and climbing on varied rock types. Trails penetrate national forests (Rio Grande, Rio Grande del Norte), park areas (Great Sand Dunes), and pueblos—routes often connect mountain passes, canyon corridors, and riparian corridors, demanding good route-finding and preparedness. The range is also celebrated for cultural landscapes, linking U.S. and Native American histories, and for wildlife such as mule deer, elk, and migratory birds*.
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