Each autumn in Taos Ski Valley, a distinct pulse races through the crisp mountain air—not from the usual skiers or hikers, but from the purposeful steps of the Not Forgotten Outreach Week participants. This event transforms the rugged landscape into a living classroom and sanctuary, uniting veterans and local communities through hiking, storytelling, and reflective moments amid the uncompromising wilderness. The week-long adventure opens with a 6-mile hike climbing approximately 1,800 feet from the valley floor toward Wheeler Peak, the highest point in New Mexico. The terrain shifts from dense spruce and fir forests, where branches seem to lean close and murmur encouragement, to exposed ridges that challenge and reward with sweeping valley views and sharp alpine air.

The trail itself demands respect. Footing changes from packed dirt to rocky scree, requiring solid hiking boots and steady balance. Streams cross your path, daring you to find the safest stones rather than ford recklessly, while breezes nudge you forward with intent. Each step is a conversation with the land—fierce, direct, and honest. Participants report a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration, bolstered by the shared purpose that aligns physical challenge with emotional release and healing.

Preparation tips are straightforward but crucial: hydrate thoroughly before departure, carry at least two liters of water considering how dry and patient the mountain air can be, and dress in moisture-wicking layers that are easy to adjust when the temperature swings. Start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in late summer and early fall. The week’s events include group discussions post-hike, where stories of service and survival find a new rhythm against the backdrop of pine needles and fading light.

Beyond just the physical path, Not Forgotten Outreach Week places emphasis on connection—to nature, self, and fellow travelers. The valley’s moody clouds and crisp clearings frame moments of quiet reflection and companionship. It’s an experience that respects the rawness of both place and purpose, inviting all from first-timers to seasoned hikers to engage seriously and come away marked, but not broken.