Wheeler Peak, at 13,167 feet, is New Mexico’s highest natural point, rising in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the northern part of the state. Formerly called Taos Peak, it was renamed in 1950 for Major George Montague Wheeler, whose surveys collected scientific and mapping data across New Mexico and six other southwestern states. The mountain anchors the 19,661-acre Wheeler Peak Wilderness in Carson National Forest, while nearby lands include acreage returned to Taos Pueblo in 1970 and 1996. Reached by routes from Taos Ski Valley or Red River, it stands among other high summits and remains a prominent destination as both the state high point and a celebrated northern New Mexico peak.