The Taos Traverse route is unquestionably one of the most challenging big mountain runs in New Mexico.  The idea is simple:  Summit Villacito Mountain, Wheeler Peak, Gold Hill, and Lobo Peak—either direction—in one long push, trailhead to trailhead.    

The Sauganash  / Valley Line / Skokie Valley Trail is like an oasis in the middle of the city. Starting in Chicago where Bryn Mawr deadends after crossing Kedzie, you can park at the southern trailhead on the street. To the left (south) is the Weber Spur trail (a gravelly spur that takes you to the North Branch Trail), to the right (north)is Sauganash, which is paved with a soft shoulder. The trail is shady for the first 2 miles. It is approximately 4 miles in length. Be careful as you do cross some busy roads (use the signal lights) as you head into Lincolnwood, Skokie and Niles.