Lake Peak/ Deception Peak, New Mexico 12er Day Hike

[@OneMansOdyssey]

This is one of the best proper hikes in New Mexico. The view from Deception is awesome, and the climb to Lake is always fun, though I've personally never done the Class 3 ridge between the two. You're right that there is an easier hike with some Class 2 scrambling up to the peak that drops about 50 feet from Deception and skirts the east slope of the ridge. This is an amazing hike in itself, but it's especially fun to pair it with some other peaks in the area. You can make it a loop with Penitente Peak, or do a lollipop loop by tagging Penitente and unnamed point 12,110' (a.k.a., "South Penitente Peak), then come back toward Deception via the Lake ridge and go towards Tesuque Peak, following a ski run down to the car. If you're feeling extra athletic you can even hit Santa Fe Baldy via Lake Katherine from this peak, but that has to be close to 18 miles and 5500' of elevation gain.

[@ethanshikingchannel7382]

It was definitely a great approachable way to get up some 12k peaks!

[@PilotEJ401]

Do miss your Colly 14ers after your move...