Went to climb Cabezon Peak this past week. It’s a volcanic formation in the Mount Taylor volcanic field, northwest of Albuquerque NM. Most of the peak is ringed by cliffs (some technical routes, but poor rock quality), but there is a 3rd class route of the southeast side. I apologize if I’m scaring any people reading this, but according to a Sierra Club manual written in the 1930’s, 3rd class is defined as: “steep scrambling with exposure, ropes are needed for inexperienced people. An unroped fall on 3rd class terrain would likely be fatal.” I would agree that a few sections of the route warrant that rating and recommend wearing a helmet for the loose rock. People with rock climbing experience should feel totally comfortable. Cabezon peak is an easy day trip from Santa Fe.
On the approach.
Talus slope, then head into steep gully.
Exposed scrambling after gully.
Passing juniper tree and then a steep section before summit.
Cactus on the summit.
Heading back down the steep gully.
