Trails

33.305153, -107.850029 at Turkey Run Trailhead

33.290520, -108.062866 at Diamond Creek Trailhead

The 3-mile Caledonia Trail #42 connects to Diamond Creek Trail #40 and the Continental Divide Trail #74 from Turkey Run Trailhead along the northern edge of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. The beginning of the trail southward is a moderate incline through ponderosa forests to a saddle. As the trail drops down to Diamond Creek, it passes a waterfall and interesting rock formations, ultimately arriving at Diamond Creek. Heading east from Turkey Run Trailhead, the trail climbs gently at first, becoming increasingly steeper as it ascends toward the Continental Divide. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding 

The 7.6-mile Meadow Trail leads from the Meadow Trailhead off of Forest Road 142 (Loco Mountain Road) into the Gila Wilderness. From the trailhead, the trail follows a gentle ridge to the east, avoiding private property at the end of the road. It is 1.25 miles to the Gila Wilderness boundary and the Wilderness Ranger District. After entering the wilderness area, the trail drops off of the ridge through several switchbacks. At the bottom of the ridge, the Sam Martin Trail #23 intersects from the east as Trail #53 turns west. Trail #53 crosses a minor drainage, intersects the east end of Homestead Trail #101, and turns south, staying above the west side of Indian Creek Canyon as it continues south toward the Middle Fork of the Gila River. Near its southern end, Trail #53 drops to the Gila River and ends at Middle Fork Trail #157.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding   

The 4.4-mile Duck Canyon Trail #60 provides access from the eastern edge of the Gila National Forest to the north end of the portion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail where it passes through the Black Range Ranger District. Beginning at the end of Forest Road 913 (Pole Canyon Road), Trail #60 crosses Duck Canyon and begins ascending the ridge as it travels to the west. Staying on this ridge, Trail #60 passes south of Wahoo Peak and intersects the Continental Divide Trail #74 on the ridge at the head of Silver Creek drainage.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding   

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 traverses 248 miles of the Gila National Forest, encompassing dramatic scenery across five of the Gila's six ranger districts. Within the Black Range Ranger District, it traces the Continental Divide from the northern end of the Black Range through the north end of Aldo Leopold Wilderness.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding   

33.444332, -107.876770 at Continental Divide #74 Trailhead,

 33.359745, -107.836601 at Lookout Mountain CDNST Trailhead,

33.335293, -107.831520 at Caledonia CDNST Trailhead

Black Range Crest Trail #79 follows the crest of the Black Range through the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, offering spectacular views of rugged canyons, the Rio Grande River valley to the east, and the Gila Wilderness and Mogollon Mountains to the west. Following the length of the Black Range is an exceptionally rewarding experience. This trail is broken into two segments, each beginning at Emory Pass on New Mexico Highway 152. Trail #79 going north toward Hillsboro Peak is almost all wilderness and suitable only for hiking and horseback. It traverses the highest peaks in the range as it follows along the crest. It's about 27.7 miles from the trailhead to Reeds Peak where it connects with Continental Divide Trail #74. 

The segment of Trail #79 that goes south from Emory Pass towards Sawyers Peak is 8.3 miles and terminates at Forest Road 886. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing

33.030224, -107.852325 at McKnight Trailhead #79,

 33.004425, -107.856216 at  Board Gate Saddle Trailhead #79,

 32.910049, -107.766441 at  Emory Pass Trailhead #79

Circle Seven Trail #106 ascends along Circle Seven Creek north of Hermosa into the Aldo Leopold Wilderness and up to the Continental Divide, climbing from 6,500 feet at the trailhead to 9,500 feet over 6.8 miles (one way) of trail. The first 2.2 miles climb gently to the Wilderness boundary, with the trail growing steeper as it approaches the Continental Divide. The first 2.2-mile section of trail outside the wilderness boundary is open to bicycles.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding, Bicycles

Rattlesnake Trail #107 ascends along Morgan Creek and Rattlesnake Canyon from north of Hermosa into the Aldo Leopold Wilderness to connect with the Continental Divide Trail #74. This moderate to difficult trail ascends from 6,150 feet to 9,000 feet over a trail distance of 6.8 miles.  The portion of trail outside the wilderness boundary is open to bicycles.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding   

The 12.3-mile Lake Trail #110 provides access from Forest Road 157 (Hermosa Road) at Morgan Creek to the Aldo Leopold Wilderness and the Black Range Crest Trail #79. From the trailhead, Trail #110 climbs southwest over ridges and valleys to reach South Fork Palomas Creek and then turns west to the wilderness boundary. Over the next 2.9 miles, Trail #110 leaves South Fork Palomas Creek and enters Marshall Creek drainage as it travels south. Continuing southward, Trail #110 climbs out of Marshall Creek and over the ridge to North Seco Creek and the western terminus of North Seco Trail #123. From here, Trail #110 follows North and South Seco Creek canyons for 7 miles to the Black Range Crest Trail #79. The first 2.4-mile portion of trail #110 outside the wilderness boundary is open to bicycles. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding, Bicycles

The 5.9-mile (one way) Spud Patch Trail #111 departs from Lake Trail #110 and travels west up Spud Patch Creek to Trail #79. About halfway along, Trail #111 reaches the head of Spud Patch Creek and ascends Spud Patch Ridge, following along the ridgetop to intersect Black Range Crest Trail #79.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding

The 4.8-mile Dines Trail #112 provides access to the North Fork Palomas Trail #105 from Forest Road 157 (Hermosa Road). The first mile of trail follows a closed road as it contours around the head of a minor drainage, then drops into North Fork Palomas Creek, avoiding private land at the entrance to the drainage. From here, Trail #112 follows the drainage bottom upstream, intersecting Moccasin John Trail #112A to the left as Trail #112 continues right, along North Fork Palomas Creek. Trail #112 follows the creek all the way to the Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary, where it ends at the eastern terminus of North Fork Palomas Trail #105. The portion of trail outside the wilderness boundary is open to bicycles.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding, Bicycling

The 0.9-mile Moccasin John Trail #112A departs from the North Fork Palomas Creek and Dines Trail #112, climbing up Moccasin John Canyon for scenic views of the canyon, Cobb Mountain, and other local features. This trail is open to bicycles.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding, Bicycling

Animas Creek Trail #114 provides access through the beautiful and remote canyons of Holden Prong and upper Las Animas Creek through the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. Trail #114 through Holden Prong begins at its highest elevation in a saddle on the Black Range Crest Trail #79 and connects to Sid's Prong Trail #121. The canyon has a northerly bearing, and the trail drops at a steady, moderate grade.

Snowfall and summer rains on this side of the range can be heavy so the stream usually has a good flow with many small pools and falls along the way. Eight miles from the mountain crest Holden Prong joins with Water Canyon to become Las Animas Creek. Private property about 3.2 miles down Las Animas Creek prevents further travel down canyon. Restricted access at this lower end of the trail and the remote access at the crest make Holden Prong and the headwaters of Las Animas Creek an isolated region with great natural beauty and solitude. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding   

The 1.25-mile North Seco Trail leaves Hermosa Trail #307 and heads west, following North Seco Creek to Lake Trail 110 at the Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding, Bicycling

Ladrone Gulch Trail #127 is a steep ascent up the east slopes of the Black Range to Hillsboro Peak in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. Best suited for strong hikers, Trail #127 ascends Middle Percha Creek to intersect the Black Range Crest Trail #79. For the skilled adventurer, it's an exceptionally rewarding experience to actually climb the mountain on Trail #127 as it gains 2,000 feet of altitude in three miles up the eastern slopes of the Black Range in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. At the crest it connects with Trail #79 in a saddle south of Hillsboro Peak. It's another three-quarter mile and 800-foot ascent up the south and east slopes to the top of this 10,011-foot peak following Trail #79. There is a seasonally staffed Forest Service fire lookout tower at the top and outstanding views of the peaks along the crest of the range. Directly across the saddle is Hillsboro Bypass Trail #412 on the Silver City Ranger District. Follow Trail #79 up the west slope one mile to the top of the peak and descend down the east slope and back to Trail #127 to make a 3.25-mile loop over the peak. Hiking this loop will be a total of about 9.25 miles and a 3,000-foot elevation gain beginning at Ladrone Trailhead. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Viewing Scenery

The 1.8-mile (one way) Coffee Trail leaves Forest Road 159 at Mineral Creek and follows a closed road up the drainage, ending near several old mine sites on the slopes above the valley. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding, Bicycling

Hermosa Trail #307 connects from the north end of Forest Road 4088N (Percha Road) to the south end of Forest Road 157 south of Hermosa. Over 11.5 miles, it traces closed portions of the old Hermosa Road, crossing ridges and drainages along the eastern slope of the Continental Divide. At its southern end, Trail #307 crosses through a section of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, passing west of Apache Peak. Portions of this trail outside of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness Area are open to bicycle. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding, Bicycling

33.203087, -107.749588 at Circle Seven Trailhead

33.161377, -107.739174 at Lake Trailhead

The 4.6-mile Wolf Hollow Trail #773 climbs up Wolf Hollow Canyon to reach the Gila Wilderness boundary. After 2.5 miles, the trail ascends a ridge, then contours across the head of Bell Canyon to reach the Wilderness boundary after 3.5 miles. From here, the trail continues contouring and then climbing through switchbacks to reach the summit of Black Mountain, the Black Mountain Lookout, and intersections with Sam Martin Trail #23, Jordan Canyon Trail #20, and CCC Trail #772.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding

The 1.2-mile Iron Trail #793 heads south out of the Town of Kingston, New Mexico, at the south end of Iron Street. Trail #793 climbs the ridge south of town in switchbacks, coming to an end on top of the ridge. Though the trail ends, it is possible to continue climbing the ridge, eventually running into Scenic Trail #796.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling

The 4.3-mile (one way) Scenic Trail #796 ascends the ridge between Middle Percha and South Percha Creeks, north of New Mexico Highway 152. It departs from Highway 152 on the end of a switchback about a half mile south of Kingston and heads west, following the ridge. Trail #796 re-joins Highway 152 at Emory Pass.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling

32.911125, -107.70844444 at New Mexico Highway 152 south of Kingston

32.910049, -107.766441 at Emory Pass

The 1.6-mile Christie Trail #806 leads from the end of Forest Road 142C, off of Forest Road 142 (Loco Mountain Road) across Christie Canyon into the Gila Wilderness, ending at the Sam Martin Trail #23 and Cassidy Trail #25 intersection. It is 1.5 miles to reach the wilderness boundary, and another 0.1 mile to the trail intersection.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding

The 7.6-mile (one way) Flying T Spring Trail #21 traverses valleys and ridges from the Frisco Divide Road to Forest Road 33 (Leggett Loop Road) in upper Saliz Canyon.

Uses: Day Hiking

The 2.5-mile (one way) Saliz Trail #22 begins along Pueblo Park Road and heads east and south into the Blue Range Wilderness, climbing onto the ridge of the Brushy Mountains. 

This trail is located entirely within the Blue Range Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking

The 5-mile (one way) Camp Canyon Trail #36 connects from Hinkle Park Trailhead along the Frisco Divide Road to Dangerous Park Trail #515. From the trailhead, it descends through Camp Canyon into Pueblo Creek canyon, following down drainage until it turns north, heading up Buckskin Canyon and traversing over to Trail 515.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking

The 2.5-mile trail (one way) offers a quick access into Whitewater Canyon from Whitewater Mesa.

From the trailhead users will start heading northeast along the trail, maintaining a fairly even climbing grade for the first 0.5 mile, then maintaining an even grade as it contours across steep slopes and drops into Whitewater Canyon. The last 0.25-mile drops down though steep switchbacks to the bottom of the canyon. Equestrian users should be aware that there a few stretches where the trail is on solid rock and several of the switchbacks have a small turning radius; this may not be the most suitable trail for inexperienced horses or riders.

Trail users will be enjoy a pleasant hike/ride though grassland with scattered pinyon and juniper trees. The trail is fairly open with few good shade trees, so this is not the trail to pick in the heat of summer. With cooler temperatures you will enjoy great views of Whitewater Canyon and Whitewater Mesa.

33.37601852, -108.84350586 at Gold Dust Trailhead

33.37298965, -108.8420639 at Catwalk Recreation Area

The 8.9-mile (one-way) WS Mountain Trail #43 is lightly used through the isolated Pueblo Creek canyon of the Blue Range Wilderness. The east side of the canyon offers some great rocky outcrops for those interested in geology. The trail follows the canyon for approximately 9 miles to WS Lake. The trail begins just south of the entrance to Pueblo Park Campground. It is a rugged, canyon bottom trail, following Pueblo Creek and Bear Canyon drainages. The trail begins at an elevation of 6,000 feet in ponderosa pine. The trail follows Pueblo Creek with approximately 12 river crossings to the junction with Bear Canyon. Trail markings may be hard to follow due to location in the river canyon bottom. 

This trail is located entirely within the Blue Range Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Dispersed Camping, Rockhounding, Viewing Scenery   

The 3-mile (one way) Cottonwood Trail # 44 begins at Forest Road 232 and ends at the junction with Dangerous Park Trail #515. The Cottonwood Trail is lightly used trail that provides opportunities for solitude. The trail starts off as an old road but quickly changes into a single-track trail. The trail follows Cottonwood Canyon for just under 0.5 mile until it starts to climb up out of the canyon. As it traverses over towards Dangerous Park Canyon, vegetation will change from juniper and brush to ponderosa pine savannah. Along the trail users will be treated to excellent views of the Blue Range and Mogollon Mountains. The trail ends at the junction with Dangerous Park Trail #515.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking

From Bonanza Bill Trailhead on the Arizona side of the state line, hike south on Bonanza Bill Trail #23 to the Junction with Tige Rim Trail #90. Once you turn onto Trail 90 you leave the state of Arizona and the Blue Range Primitive Area, entering into the state of New Mexico and the Blue Range Wilderness. The 5.5-mile (one way) trail 90 takes a relatively moderate grade as it winds though the ponderosa pines. After a few miles the trail will parallel a rock rim, from here users will be rewarded with excellent views over the Blue Range with the Mogollon Mountains of the Gila Wilderness in the background. The trail winds along the rim for a few miles before dropping at a little moderate gradient down to junction with Trail 23, nearby Bonanza Bill Flat where the trail ends. This trail is a moderately graded trail with excellent views, but no access to water. Users are advised to plan in advance and carry extra water with them.

This trail is located entirely within the Blue Range Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking

The 3-mile (one way) Tige Canyon Trail #91 heads west up Tige Canyon from the WS Mountain Trail in the Blue Range Wilderness. The trail climbs gently along the canyon bottom, gaining about 800 feet in elevation over the 3-mile (one way) trail. Hikers are treated with canyon views and interesting rock features. 

This trail is located entirely within the Blue Range Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery 

The 7.1-mile (one way) Mogollon Trail #153 begins at 74 Mountain Trailhead and enters the Gila Wilderness, climbing over the east flank of 74 Mountain, where it intersects Rain Creek Trail #189. Then it drops into Mogollon Creek, and heads upstream to intersect with Gobbler Canyon Trail #221 and Kemp Trail #301. This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

This is a high elevation trail (approximately 7,080 feet) that leads to Whitewater Creek in the Gila Wilderness. This trail is NOT recommended for traversing. Massive washout due to flooding after Whitewater-Baldy Fire. Huge washouts that cannot be crossed and some extremely loose soil and rocks. The 7.8-mile (one way) trail follows Deloche Canyon and then tops out on the ridge overlooking Whitewater Creek. The trail then descends down into creek. Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir are abundant near the canyon bottom. Travel along Trail 207 for 1/2 mile and continue the 179 trail to Spider Saddle. Pockets of aspen and dense mixed conifer line the trail. Good camping sites at confluence of trail 179 and 207. The trail down to Whitewater Creek is on south-facing slope and can be very hot especially in the afternoon. Winn Canyon climbs abruptly with numerous switchbacks to Spider Saddle. Most of this trail is located within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, River and Stream Fishing   

The 10.3-mile (one way) Little Dry Trail #180 climbs from the end of Forest Road 196 (Little Dry Creek Road) with a moderate elevation gain of 600 feet over 2 miles to reach the Gila Wilderness boundary. The trail grows gradually steeper as it follows the drainage upstream for about another mile, where the trail leaves the canyon bottom and begins climbing to the top of the ridge at Windy Point and following the ridge and contouring around the north side of Sacaton Mountain to intersect with Holt-Apache Trail #181. Most of this trail is located within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

The 16.7-mile (one way) Holt-Apache Trail #181 Begins on Sheridan Ridge and enters the Gila Wilderness after 0.5 mile. Only the first 4.1 miles of this trail have been recently maintained. From the trailhead, the trail climbs gradually at first, then contours across the slope into Sheridan Gulch. Once the trail reaches the valley bottom, it follows the drainage upstream. At 1.9 miles from the trailhead, Trail #181 intersects Johnson Cabin Trail #225, which climbs sharply to the east, as Trail #181 turns north and begins to ascend a drainage, gaining 2,700 feet to skirt the ridge just south of Holt Mountain. From this point on, Trail 181 is unmaintained. From here, the trail follows the ridge northeast toward Grouse Mountain and intersections with South Fork Whitewater Trail #212, East Fork Whitewater Trail #213, and Deloche Trail #179. At its intersection with Trail 179, Trail 181 turns southeast along the ridge toward Indian Peak and the head of Spruce Creek drainage and the northern flank of Black Mountain. East of Black Mountain, Trail 181 passes through a saddle and follows the ridge top toward Center Baldy and the end of Trail 181 at the Crest Trail #182.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

This 11.8-mile (one way), high elevation trail offers hikers spectaculars views of the Gila Wilderness. This trail is known as the Crest Trail because it generally follows the crest of the Mogollon Mountains from Sandy Point, past Whitewater Baldy, and along the crest to Mogollon Baldy. The trail passes through the 2012 Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire and patches of remnant mature mixed conifer forest and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Gila National Forest. Much of the burned area is regenerating, offering visitors the opportunity to witness forest succession in real time. There is a fire lookout tower located atop of Mogollon Baldy. 

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

The 8.75-mile (one way) Rain Creek Trail begins at Rain Creek Trailhead near Sacaton Airstrip and enters the Gila Wilderness as it drops into Rain Creek. The trail follows upstream for about .3 mile before climbing steeply up the ridge separating Rain Creek from West Fork Mogollon Creek. The trail drops to West Fork Mogollon Creek, crosses the creek, and begins climbing again over the southern flank of Lookout Mountain and drops again, this time into Mogollon Creek, crosses the creek, and begins climbing southward to intersect Mogollon Trail #153.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

The 14-mile (one way) Mineral Creek Trail follows Mineral Creek from the lower trailhead in Cooney Canyon, east of Alma, New Mexico to the upper, North Fork Mineral Creek trailhead, gaining just over 3,100 feet in elevation. The last 0.5-mile climb to the North Fork Mineral Creek Trailhead is steep, gaining about 500 feet to climb up the ridge near the head of the drainage. along the way, Trail 201 intersects Red Canyon Trail #198, Log Canyon Trail #808, Bearwallow Creek Trail #190, Whitetail Canyon Trail #202, and South Fork Mineral Creek Trail #798.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Viewing Scenery 

33.418583, -108.829781 at Mineral Creek Trailhead

33.399605, -108.638832 at North Fork Mineral Creek Trailhead

This 7.7-mile (one way) Redstone Trail #206 offers a nice hike through various landscapes and the Redstone Park Canyon. The Redstone Trail provides a relatively quick way to get into the upper reaches of Whitewater Creek within the Gila Wilderness. The trail leaves Silver Creek and climbs quickly to 9,000 ft within the first 1/2 mile. The trail winds through mixed conifer forest for about four miles and then descends into Whitewater Creek at Redstone Park at the junction of Trail #207. This junction is a popular camping area. Beyond this point, Redstone Trail climbs over the shoulder of Indian Peak to intersect Holt-Apache #181 Trail.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Riding, Viewing Scenery 

The Catwalk's history began with the discovery of gold and silver in the rugged Mogollon Mountains above Whitewater Canyon. In 1893, the small town of Graham (also known as Whitewater) grew around a mill, located on the west hillside near the present-day location of the parking area. The mill only lasted about 10 years. In the mid-1930's the Civilian Conservation Corps rebuilt the Catwalk. The 0.75-mile (one way) Catwalk Trail #207 offers a very accessible area and easily hiked by all ages. Beyond the end of the Catwalk bridge system, the trail continues up the drainage as Whitewater Creek Trail #207.1. 

Uses: Day Hiking     

The 16.8-mile (one way) Whitewater Trail #207.1 climbs into the Gila Wilderness from the end of the Catwalk Trail #207 up Whitewater Creek drainage to intersect Crest Trail #182 at Hummingbird Saddle, on the north flank of Whitewater Baldy Peak. This trail was severely damaged by post-fire flooding after the Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire. A series of trail reconstruction projects are occurring to restore trail access toward Hummingbird Saddle. As of spring 2025, trail access has been restored approximately 2.1 miles beyond the Gila Wilderness Boundary, to the base of the Deloche Trail #179.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace. 

2.4 to powerhouse trail, 2.8 to WA boundary

The 7-mile (one way) South Fork Whitewater Trail #212 is a moderately difficult trail that follows the South Fork Whitewater Creek from the confluence with Whitewater Creek up to Camp Creek Saddle in the Gila Wilderness. It is a relatively gentle climb until it begins to switchback up to the saddle. Starting from the Whitewater Trail junction heading south, users will hike past the old power plant and continue up the trail as it winds up the South Fork Whitewater Creek. The trail crosses the drainage numerous times. Users should use extreme caution during rainstorms and high-water level, rocks are slippery, and the water can be deceptively fast moving. Past the area known as Devil's Elbow, there is a section of trail that has a few very narrow rocky switchbacks. This area can be treacherous for stock. It is recommended that users get off their horses and lead them one at a time over this stretch. In the Tennessee Meadow area, there are two trail junctions, the first is East Whitewater Trail # 213, the second is about 0.5-mile up trail is Little Whitewater Trail # 214. Trail # 212 continues to skirt the creek for another mile or so. Then it will push at a higher grade up to the saddle, where the trail ends up at the junction with Holt-Apache Trail #181 and Golden Link Trail # 218.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking     

The 3-mile (one way) East Fork Whitewater Trail #213 follows the East Fork Whitewater Creek drainage up from the South Fork Whitewater Trail #212 east toward Grouse Mountain and the end of Trail 213 at its intersection with Holt-Apache Trail #181 in the Gila Wilderness. This trail has not recently been maintained. 

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking     

The difficult 7.75-mile (one way) Little Whitewater Trail #214 climbs north out of Little Whitewater Creek drainage onto the ridge north of it and turns east, following the ridge toward Nabours Mountain. The trail enters the Gila Wilderness after approximately 2.8 miles and continues to climb more steeply as it skirts the south side of Nabors Mountain, following the ridge southeast and finally dropping into the South Fork Whitewater Creek and ending at its intersection with South Fork Whitewater Creek Trail #212. Elevation change is the name of the game on this trail. The trail begins at 5,096 feet, climbs to 9,030 near the top of Nabours Mountain, and ends at 7,370 feet. This trail has been maintained from the trailhead to near the highest point at Nabours Mountain.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking     

The 3.2-mile (one way) Johnson's Cabin Trail #225 connects from the Holt-Apache Trail #181 to Johnson's cabin near North Fork Big Dry Creek within the Gila Wilderness. It climbs steeply up the ridge and through the saddle between Holt Mountain to the north and Sheridan Mountain to the south, then drops steeply into the North Fork Big Dry Creek drainage at the end of the trail.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking     

The 2-mile (one way) West Fork Mogollon Trail #224 splits north off of Rain Creek Trail #189 and follows West Fork Mogollon Creek upstream for 2 miles to its end in the valley bottom within the Gila Wilderness.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking     

The 1.25-mile San Francisco Hot Springs Trail #250 heads downhill through a minor drainage to the San Francisco Hot Springs on National Forest System lands along the San Francisco River.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking     

The 4.3-mile (one way) Kelly Camp Trail #431 begins at the end of Forest Road 4041G (Line Gap Road), 0.75 mile west of US Highway 180. The 4.3-mile (one way) trail begins on the edge of the Blue Range Wilderness, dropping into lower Pueblo Creek. It turns up-drainage, following the canyon bottom to intersect with the WS Mountain Trail #43. 

This trail is located entirely within the Blue Range Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking     

33.47315833, -108.76603611 at Trail 949

33.47433889, -108.75530833 at Trail #949A

The 3.9-mile (one way) Aspen Mountain Trail #506 climbs eastward from the Frisco Divide Road along the flank of Aspen Mountain until it accesses the ridge top and turns southward, following the ridge overlooking the headwaters of Pueblo Creek. Near its southern end, Trail 506 passes through a saddle to intersect Flying T Spring Trail #21.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking     

Beginning at the Pueblo Park Trailhead at the north end of Pueblo Park Campground, the 6.5-mile (one way) Dangerous Park Trail #515 heads north, following the ridge overlooking Dangerous Park Canyon. The trail climbs fairly steeply out of the trailhead, gaining approximately 500 feet in elevation over the first mile. Proceeding northward, the trail continues gaining elevation until its end at Flying T Spring Trail #21, at approximately 8,000 feet elevation.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking

The 2.4-mile South Fork Mineral Creek Trail #798 begins at the trailhead of the same name along New Mexico Highway 159 (Bursum Road), following the top of a ridge to the northwest as it drops into Mineral Creek canyon to intersect the Mineral Creek Trail #201. The trail drops about 1,000 feet in elevation from the trailhead to Mineral Creek.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking

The 2.1-mile (one way) Log Cabin Trail #808 is a short trail that connects Bursum Road to Mineral Creek. This trail provides many vistas and a challenging trip for users. The Log Cabin Trail starts at Bursum Road and heads north following a drainage for a short distance before it turns and begins to head over to Coffee Gulch. Once the trail crosses the gulch it will ascend up to a saddle. From the saddle the trail begins a long descent, via many switchbacks, to Mineral Creek and Mineral Creek Trail #201. 

This is a difficult section that is narrow with steep side slopes, stock users and mountain bikes should be very careful attempting this part of the trail. Please do not be tempted to cut the switchbacks, the soil is unstable. Shortcutting promotes erosion and the slope is dangerous.

Uses: Day Hiking     

Located in the Glenwood Ranger District, Powerhouse Trail #810 provides users with a moderate 1.87-mile (one way) hike with scenic views of the Mogollon Mountains as it drops from the Bursum Road into Whitewater Creek. It intersects Whitewater Trail 207.1 just outside the Gila Wilderness boundary. 

Uses: Day Hiking

The 1.44-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #949 begins at the end of Forest Road 4056X (Long Canyon Road) to the non-motorized Long Canyon Trail #501, which climbs to the top of Lost Lake Mountain.

Uses: Day Hiking, Off Highway Vehicles

The 5.8-mile (one way) Motorized Trail 949A allows motorized vehicles 50" in width or less. Beginning at Forest Road 4043 (Lost Lake Road) off of Forest Road 626A (Potato Canyon Road), Motorized Trail 949A heads south in climbing turns over Deep Creek Divide, generally following the top of the ridge between Deep Creek and Devil's Creek to Lost Lake Mountain. The motorized route ends at a non-motorized Long Canyon Trail #501 to the top of Lost Lake Mountain. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Off Highway Vehicles

The 1.7-mile (one way) Pueblo Interpretive Trail #5151 begins and ends at Pueblo Park Campground, following a loop onto the ridge east and north of the campground, following upstream and crossing Pueblo Creek, and returning along the ridge west of the campground. Along its route, it passes cultural and historic points of interest spanning the prehistoric Mogollon culture to the works of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Efforts are underway to improve interpretation of visible features along the trail.

Uses: Day Hiking     

The 4.4-mile (one way) Sawmill Canyon Trail #13 leads through stands of ponderosa pines from the Quemado Lake Overlook Trail #132 south past the west side of the El Caso Lookout Tower to its end at Forest Road 43 (El Caso Lookout Road). Heading north at Forest Road 43 leads to Largo Trail #14 back to Quemado Lake for an extended loop hike. This trail provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Additional activities in the area include fishing, bird watching, and boating (restricted to oars and electric motors) on Quemado Lake. 

Uses: Day Hiking     

The 4.6-mile (one way) Largo Trail #14 is a high elevation trail through ponderosa pines to El Caso Lookout tower. The trail climbs toward the El Caso Lookout Tower through grassy fields and ponderosa pine stands. The trail crosses a bridge on the east side of Quemado Lake and provides excellent opportunities to view waterfowl, blue herons, osprey, and other birds. There are many opportunities to view wildlife along the trail. The trail connects to the Vista Trail #149, Lakeshore Access Trail 1441, Quemado Lake Fishing Trail #144, and Sawmill Canyon Trail #13 for extended hiking.

Uses: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife   

The 3.5-mile (one way) Freeman Mountain Trail #33 runs roughly east-west. At its east end, Trail #33 departs Forest Road 3020 (Spur Trail Draw) through a stand of mixed conifer forest. After heading west approximately 1 mile, the trail intersects Dillon Mountain Trail #34 on the south (left), shortly after entering Cottonwood Canyon. Continuing down the canyon, Trail #33 skirts around private property and ends at Forest Road 216.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife  

The 3.8-mile Dillon Mountain Trail #34 starts at Freeman Mountain Trail #33 and climbs out of Cottonwood Canyon to the south, ascending over the western shoulder of Dillon Mountain. Upon dropping off of the rim of Dillon Mountain, Trail #34 drops steeply toward Centerfire Creek on the Frisco Box Road. Before the trail reaches the valley bottom, a fence line demarcates a private land boundary. Crossing onto private property without permission is strongly discouraged.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The 4.2-mile Airstrip Mesa Trail #35 connects from Forest Road 210 up and over a ridge to the west and across Forest Road 4025P. From here, the trail descends into Trout Creek, crosses the creek, and ends at the east end of Forest Road 4020Z. Continuing west on the forest road leads to Forest Road 19.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The 10-mile (one way) Mail Trail #125 offers great views of the Reserve and Luna Valleys.

It begins off of Forest Road 4042N (Dry Starkweather Canyon) and heads northwest along Starkweather Canyon up the east side of the San Francisco Mountains. At the top, the trail crosses Forest Road 35 (Highland Road) and begins to descend gently, following a ridge to the northwest along a closed road. After leaving the old road, the trail descends into Trail Canyon, following it northwest to End of Trail Lane and Luna Valley Drive.

33.73210833, -108.80329167 at Forest Road 4042N

33.80328611, -108.92223056 at Luna Valley Road

The 1.7-mile (one way) Trout Creek Trail #351 begins off the edge of Forest Road 19 north of Luna and climbs upstream, heading east/southeast along Trout Creek. At its eastern end, it intersects Airstrip Mesa Trail #35 along Trout Creek.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

33.84677500, -108.95484722 at Forest Road 19

33.83613889, -108.93563889 at Airstrip Mesa Trail #35

The 4.7-mile (one way) Dry Blue Trail #61 is open to vehicles 50" in width or less. From the trailhead, the trail drops steeply into the upper Blue River watershed, following the Blue River downstream to Forest Road 281, just on the New Mexico side of the Arizona/New Mexico state line. Along the way, it offers opportunities for visitors to stretch their legs on the non-motorized Blue Spring Trail #62, Colyer Spring Trail #63, and Frieborn Canyon Trail #126.

Uses: OHV use, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The 1.2-mile (one way) Blue Spring Trail #62 leads up Dry Blue Creek drainage from the Dry Blue Trail along headwaters of the Blue River. This is a non-motorized trail.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The 0.3-mile Colyer Spring Trail #63 is a short, non-motorized trail that leads a short way up Colyer Canyon from the Dry Blue Trail. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The 1-mile Mother Hubbard Trail #64 is open to vehicles 50" in width or less. It connects the southern end of the Dry Blue Trail #61 with Forest Road 281 just on the New Mexico side of the Arizona/New Mexico state line.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 traverses 248 miles of the Gila National Forest, encompassing dramatic scenery across five of the Gila's six ranger districts. It traverses 32 miles (one way) north-south through the Quemado Ranger District. It enters the Quemado Ranger District at Quemado North End Trailhead, passing east of Escondido Mountain and the Quemado Lake area, connects with Mangas Spur Trail #743 and Valle Tio Vinces Spur Trail #744, 0.8-mile west of Valle Tio Vinces Campground, and leaves the Quemado Ranger District when it passes Continental Divide - CDNST Trailhead.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

34.225697, -108.390404 at Quemado North End CDNST Trailhead

33.935078, -108.417992 at Continental Divide CDNST Trailhead

The 4.1-mile (one way) Jim Smith Trail #109 heads north from Forest Road 385 (Karruth Road) at Smith Creek, following the creek drainage around the west side of Jim Smith Peak, then turning east and climbing up a drainage north of the peak to reach a saddle. From the saddle, the trail crosses a mostly flat mountaintop and descends the eastern ridge, coming to an end at Forest Road 4003B northwest of Jones Peak.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The 4.4-mile (one way) Upper Cottonwood Canyon Trail #119 begins off of the end of Forest Road 4029A, following a closed road south through a large meadow and skirting the west side of Dead Horse Tank before entering an open ponderosa pine stand and the head of Cottonwood Canyon. Eventually, the old road ends near Centerfire Tank Number 2 and the trail continues down the canyon. Near its southern terminus, Trail #119 heads up a side drainage to its end at Freeman Mountain Trail #33.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

From Upper Frisco Hot Springs Trailhead, the 4.15-mile (one way) Warm Springs Trail # 124 heads north along the ridgetop of South Mountain before dropping down into the San Francisco River canyon. At its northern terminus, Trail 124 intersects the west end of Frisco Box Trail 762, which begins at the Frisco Box Trailhead on the Reserve Ranger District.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The 5.1-mile Frieborn Canyon Trail #126 begins on a closed road off of the north side Forest Road 4 (Nolan Canyon Road), west of Forest Road 209 (Frisco Divide Road). Trail #126 heads east/northeast across the ridgetop overlooking the impressive Frieborn Canyon. The trail soon departs the old road, heading northwest into the canyon on a steep descent. Upon reaching the canyon bottom, the trail follows the drainage downstream to the Blue River above its confluence with Campbell Blue Creek. Just before Trail #126 ends at Dry Blue Trail #61, the Frieborn Access Trail #1261 intersects the west side of Trail #126, providing more direct access to Forest Road 281.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The 0.7-mile Frieborn Access Trail #1261 provides non-motorized access to Frieborn Canyon Trail from Forest Road 281.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife

The 1.7-mile (one way) Overlook Trail #132 begins at the Quemado Lake Fishing Trail #144. It is a high elevation trail that meanders through stands of ponderosa pines up to the lake overlook. The trail dead-ends at a rock outcrop overlooking the lake. A bench along the trail is available for resting and lake viewing. From the overlook, panoramic views of El Caso Peak, Castle Rock, and Quemado Lake provide excellent photographic opportunities. The trail connects to Sawmill Canyon Trail #13 and the Vista Trail #149 for extended hiking. Many birds inhabit the area.

Uses: Day Hiking, Fishing, Lake and Pond Fishing, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

The 2.8-mile (one way) Fishing Trail #144 skirts around Quemado Lake through stands of ponderosa pines. There are many opportunities to view the lake from the trail. Fishermen use the trail to access the lake from different areas. A bench along the trail is available for resting and lake viewing. Interpretive signs along the trail describe some of the birds that inhabit the lake area. The trail connects Overlook Trail #132, and Largo Trail #14, Lakeshore Access Trail #1441, Juniper Access Trail #1442, and Cove Access Trail #1443 for extended hiking.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife   

The 0.25-mile (one way) Lakeshore Access Trail #1441 connects the Largo Canyon Trail #14 to the Quemado Lake Fishing Trail #144 at the east end of Quemado Lake.

Uses: Day Hiking, Fishing access

The 0.1-mile (one way) Juniper-Lake Access Trail #1442 connects Juniper Campground to the Quemado Lake Fishing Trail #144 along the lake's northern shore.

Uses: Day Hiking, Fishing access

The 0.1-mile (one way) Cove-Lake Access Trail #1443 connects Juniper Campground to Cove Day Use Area.

Uses: Day Hiking, Fishing access

The 0.4-mile (one way) Pinon-Lake Access Trail #147 provides non-motorized access from Pinon Campground to the Quemado Lake Road and access to lakeside attractions.

Uses: Day Hiking, Fishing access

The aptly named Vista Trail #149 is a high elevation trail that leads approximately 1 mile (one way) through ponderosa pines to a scenic vista. There are many places to view Quemado Lake and surrounding country from the trail. From the scenic vista, panoramic views of El Caso Peak, Castle Rock, Largo Canyon, and Quemado Lake provide excellent photographic opportunities. The trail provides a connection from the Lake Overlook Trail to Largo Trail #14 for extended hiking. Additional activities at Quemado Lake include bird watching, fishing, and boating. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery

The 4.2-mile (one way) Mangas Spur Trail #743 links between the Continental Divide Trail #74 to Mangas Mountain Lookout Road. It passes through open ponderosa pine forest, roughly parallel to the lookout road, providing for non-motorized access. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery

The 0.8-mile (one way) Valle Tio Vinces Spur Trail #744 exits the west end of Valle Tio Vinces Campground to connect with the Continental Divide Trail #74.

Uses: Day Hiking, Pack and Saddle Stock

34.033306, -108.350620 at Valle Tio Vinces Campground

The 0.9-mile (one way) Apache Creek Interpretive Trail #16 climbs up to the rimrock on the southeast face of the mesa east of Apache Creek Campground. It provides a short loop hike featuring prehistoric rock art interpretive exhibits. From Apache Creek Campground, follow Forest Road 94 (Cox Canyon Road) east .5 mile and turn north (left) onto Forest Road 4033 and proceed .2 mile to the trailhead. Hiking to the trailhead from the campground adds 0.7 mile (one way).

Uses: Day Hiking, Interpretive Areas     

The 17.1-mile (one way) Divide Trail #15 heads west from the Cox Canyon/CDNST Trailhead along Forest Road 94 (Cox Canyon Road). The trail heads south/southwest along the ridge of the Tularosa Mountains, connecting Cox Canyon Trailhead with Eagle Peak and Rainy Mesa Trailhead. Trail #15 skirts the south side of Eagle Peak. For access to Eagle Peak Lookout, turn north onto Wilson Canyon Trail #768 for access to Forest Road 38 (Eagle Peak Road). It is 1.5 miles (one way) along Trail #768 and the road to access the lookout.

From its intersection with Trail #768, Trail #15 continues south/southwest, following ridges to the end of Forest Road 4311Z (Perry Mesa) and the head of Russ Canyon. Trail #15 heads down Russ Canyon and crosses Forest Road 141 at the confluence of North Fork and South Fork Negrito Creek. From Forest Road 141, the trail climbs to the south, ending at Rainy Mesa Trailhead.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking     

33.742096, -108.477615 at Cox Canyon Trailhead

33.597569, -108.628830 at Rainy Mesa Trailhead

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 traverses 248 miles (one way) of the Gila National Forest, encompassing dramatic scenery across five of the Gila's six ranger districts. It traverses 45 miles (one way) north-south through the Reserve Ranger District. It enters the district at the Continental Divide - CDNST Trailhead on Highway 12, travels southeast past Eagle Peak, and exits the Gila National Forest north of O Bar O Mountain.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling

33.935078, -108.417992 at Continental Divide - CDNST Trailhead

 33.837959, -108.428040 at Cox Canyon Trailhead

33.659157, -108.439484 at Bounty B-054 CDNST Trailhead

The 2.1-mile (one way) Negrito Springs Trail #118A Intersects Negrito Creek Road just above its confluence with the San Francisco River. Trail #118A travels eastward up a ridge south of Negrito Creek. At its eastern terminus, it intersects Forest Road 4318I. Continuing on Forest Road 4318I up the hill intersects Forest Road 4042G, which can be traced to the southwest and back north to the start of Trail #118A for an approximately 6-mile loop.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling

The 1.3-mile (one way) Milligan Trail #122 turns west/southwest off of Negrito Trail #131 and meets up with motorized trail #957 north of Willow Spring Mountain.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling

The 10-mile (one way) Mail Trail #125 offers great views of the Reserve and Luna Valleys. It begins off of Forest Road 4042N (Dry Starkweather Canyon) and heads northwest along Starkweather Canyon up the east side of the San Francisco Mountains. At the top, the trail crosses Forest Road 35 (Highland Road) and begins to descend gently, following a ridge to the northwest along a closed road. After leaving the old road, the trail descends into Trail Canyon, following it northwest to End of Trail Lane and Luna Valley Drive.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling

33.73210833, -108.80329167 at Forest Road 4042N

33.80328611, -108.92223056 at Luna Valley Road

The 9.8-mile (one way) Negrito Trail #131 departs west from Divide Trail #15 approximately 1 mile north of Rainy Mesa Trailhead. Trail #131 travels northwest down Negrito Creek. Multiple segments of trail pass through private land parcels. Visitors should avoid crossing onto private property unless you have permission from the landowners to cross.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling

The 4.4-mile (one way) Chimney Trail #136 takes off from the Negrito Trail #131 and travels west up the beautiful Chimney Canyon and Willow Springs Canyon. The eastern 2.1 miles of the trail is non-motorized, from Negrito Creek to the saddle that divides Chimney Canyon (draining eastward) from Willow Spring Canyon (draining westward). The western 2.3 miles is open to motorized vehicles. At its western terminus, Trail #136 intersects the end of Forest Road 4042Q.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling, OHV

The 5.5-mile (one way) Bead Springs Trail #138 begins on the Reserve Ranger District, at the end of Forest Road 507 (Willow Creek Road). The first 0.25 mile is outside the Gila Wilderness boundary. Trail #138 follows the bottom of the Willow Creek drainage past Bead Springs to the Crest Trail #182. Trail #138 was burned over by the Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire and has many standing dead trees, and deadfall. The trail is difficult to trace due to long-term restoration needs.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling

The 1-mile (one way) Snow Lake Trail #142 provides access from Snow Lake and Dipping Vat Campground to Middle Fork Trail #157 in the Gila Wilderness. From Snow Lake Trailhead, the trail skirts the west and south sides of Snow Lake, then drops down Snow Canyon to access the Middle Fork Gila River. Bicycle use is permitted on the portion of trail that is outside of the wilderness boundary.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling

The 3.1-mile (one way) Loco Mountain Trail #143 provides access from Loco Mountain Road north of the Gila Wilderness boundary into the wilderness to the Middle Fork Gila River and Middle Fork Trail #157. From the trailhead, Trial #143 follows the ridge west of Porcupine Canyon at a gentle grade. The last section of trail drops steeply off of the ridge to the Middle Fork Gila River.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The 41.4-mile (one way) Middle Fork Trail #157 begins at the headwaters of the Middle Fork Gila River, Gilita Creek. The trail follows the bottom of Gilita Creek drainage eastward from the trailhead and enters the Gila Wilderness after 0.5 mile. About 6 miles downstream, the Snow Lake Trail #112 intersects from the left as Trail #157 continues downstream on the Middle Fork Gila River. Trail #151 intersects Iron Creek Trail #171 and Clayton Mesa Trail #175 near the Iron Creek/Middle Fork confluence, and Loco Mountain Trail #143 not long after. A few miles farther downstream, Trotter Trail #30 intersects on the south and then Aeroplane Mesa Trail #705 intersects on the north, then the Flying V Trail #706 crosses Trail #157 another half mile beyond. Continuing downstream, the canyon walls grow higher as the trail enters a tightly winding, narrow section of the river canyon until the next trail intersection with Canyon Creek Trail #31. Continuing downstream, the canyon straightens out, and Homestead Trail #101 intersects on the north, shortly followed by Coop Mesa Trail #730 on the south. After another tightly winding section of river canyon, Big Bear Trail #25 intersects on the south, followed by Meadow Trail #53 on the north. Trail #157 continues along the Middle Fork River, passing the side drainages of Indian Creek, Brothers West Canyon, House Log Canyon, and Jordan Canyon before the next trail intersection with Little Bear Trail #729 on the south. Soon, the river and trail swing to the south, coming to an end a few miles later at Middle Fork Trailhead.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding

33.409360, -108.575200 at Gilita Trailhead

33.225758, -108.241150 at Middle Fork Trailhead

The 1.4-mile (one way) Walk in the Past Trail #616 heads up and over a ridge to the Tularosa River and an impressive prehistoric rock art panel.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Scenic Viewing

The 3.8-mile (one way) Aeroplane Mesa Trail #705 begins at Aeroplane Mesa Campground, providing access to the Gila Wilderness, Middle Fork Trail 157, and the Middle Fork Gila River.  Along the way, it offers mountain vistas and beautiful, high-elevation, open grasslands with stands of ponderosa pine. Trail #705 descends the grassy, southern slopes of Loco Mountain and traverses Aeroplane Mesa. The gently rolling, open grassland and distant mountain vistas offers a tempting invitation to wander across this beautiful countyside. Stands of ponderosa pine occur in canyons and on hill tops and provide shelter for the elk herds that favor this open country. At the end of Aeroplane Mesa the trail descends 500 feet into the canyon of the Middle Fork of the Gila River. This is an excellent trail for access to this upper segment of the river. At the Gila River Trail #705 connects with the Middle Fork Trail #157 which follows the length of the river from Snow Lake to the Gila Cliff Dwellings. It also connects with the Trotter Trail #30 which leads to the West Fork of the Gila River.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Horse Camping, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing

The 5-mile (one way) Flying V Trail #706 provides access into the Gila Wilderness, Canyon Creek Trail #31, Middle Fork Gila River, and Trotter Trail #30. From the trailhead west of Canyon Creek at the wilderness boundary, Trail #706 gradually loses elevation as it heads south. After about 1.5 miles, Canyon Creek Trail #31 intersects from the east, while Trail #706 turns southwest toward Flying V Canyon. The trail drops off of the upland, into and down Flying V Canyon to the Middle Fork Gila River. Here, Trail #706 crosses the river and continues southward, climbing up onto the mesa to end at Trotter Trail #30.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding     

The 5.1-mile (one way) Spur Ranch Trail #761 leads from Forest Road 4161U off of Hudson Road northwest across Cienega Canyon and climbs the ridge between Cienega and Geronimo canyons. At the northwest end, Trail #761 climbs up the steep east side of the San Francisco Mountains and ends at Forest Road 35 (Highland Road).

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horse Riding

33.74828056, -108.79207222 at Forest Road 4161U

33.78845833, -108.83375556 at Forest Road 35 Highland Road

The 6.9-mile (one way) Frisco Box Trail provides hikers with unique rock formations, riparian area, fishing and Frisco Warm Springs. Trail 762 skirts around the east side of private land then ascends up a ridge providing excellent viewing of the rock bluffs and unique formations before the trail descends back down to the San Francisco River. At this point the trail basically follows the gorge type river bottom without any developed trailway. The further you go up the river, the narrower and rockier the canyon becomes until you get to the area known as the Box. This canyon area is very narrow with high bluffs along its edge with the San Francisco River running through this gorge. Once you get through the narrows or "Box" area the canyon gradually widens, and you continue upstream for approximately 1.5 miles to the Frisco Warm Springs. This portion of trail #762 is on the Reserve Ranger District.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, River and Stream Fishing, Swimming 

The 1.7-mile (one way) Piney Park Trail #766 turns southwest off of Wilson Trail #768, crosses over a broad pinon-juniper covered area, as it drops elevation, crosses over Piney Park Canyon, and ends at a stock tank east of Miligan Mountain.

Uses: Hiking, Horse Riding, Bicycling, OHV riding

The 5.1-mile (one way) Wilson Canyon Trail #768 provides non-motorized access from Forest Road 233 (Eagle Peak Road) to Piney Park Trail #766, Eagle Peak Road just beneath the peak and lookout, and Divide Trail #15. The trail begins at the end of Forest Road 4166F and heads south. After 2.3 miles of climbing, Trail #768 Intersects Piney Park Trail #766 as Trail #768 turns southeast, continuing its ascent of Eagle Peak. After another 2.8 miles, Trial 768 meets up with Eagle Peak Road. Follow the road to reach the Eagle Peak Lookout. Continuing on Trail #768 for another 0.6 mile leads to the end of Trail #768 at Divide Trail #15.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horse Riding

The 0.9-mile (loop) Reserve Fitness Trail #769 begins off the end of Airport Drive in Reserve, at the east end of the Forest Service housing compound. The trail forms one large loop bisected through the middle, through the open pinon-juniper woodland. There is about 100 feet of elevation change between the high end of the trail on the south side of the loop to the low/north end.

Uses: Day Hiking, Trail Running

The 4.2-mile (one way) Trail #952 allows motorized vehicles 50" in width or less. It begins at the end of Forest Road 540 (Beardon Road) and heads north skirting around the west side of private property toward Wilson Canyon. After passing the private land, Motorized Trail #953 intersects on the right for a loop opportunity with Trail #952. Trail #952 heads northwest up Wilson Canyon, then turns northeast around the back side of a small peak and intersects Motorized Trail #952 and #953. Trail #952 continues northeast to First Apache Canyon and heads down the canyon to end at Forest Road 4033B.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horse Riding, OHV Riding

The 1.7-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #954 allows motorized vehicles 50" in width or less. The trail begins on the east side of Motorized Trail #952 and heads up a minor drainage north of Wilson Canyon. At its north end, Trail #953 ends at Motorized Trail #952, forming a loop opportunity.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horse Riding, OHV Riding

The 1.1-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #954 allows motorized vehicles 50" in width or less. The trail begins just off of Wilson Canyon, at Trail #952 and continues up Wilson Canyon to its end in the drainage.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horse Riding, OHV Riding

The 1.1-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #956 begins off of Forest Road 4042G. The trail heads west, hooks left around the end of the ridge, and ends at a spring.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horse Riding, OHV Riding

The 4.2-mile (loop) Motorized Trail #957 continues east off of the end of Forest Road 4042G. It forms a loop over the mountains and drainages between Willow Spring Mountain and Negrito Creek.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horse Riding, OHV Riding

11.4-miles (one way) This trail is part of the Fort Bayard trail system. Intersects many other trails, including Woodhaul Spur Trail #55C, Servis Corrals Trail #725, FS Nursery Road Trail #757, Cornell Ranch Trail #758, Big Tree Trail #55, and Stevens Ranch Trail #756, Bear Canyon Trail #104, and Forest Road 855A (Lockney Road), near the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74. 

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

32.800129, -108.153488 at Woodhaul Wagon Road Trailhead

32.841774, -108.144272 at Big Tree Trailhead

0.3-miles (one way) This trail is part of the Fort Bayard trail system, providing an alternate access to the Woodhaul Wagon Trail #55 from Forest Road 536.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

0.75 miles (one way), part of the Gomez Peak/Little Walnut trail system.

Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 traverses 248 miles of the Gila National Forest, encompassing dramatic scenery across five of the Gila's six ranger districts. 

The Silver City Ranger District includes 86 miles of Trail #74, including 38 miles from Sapillo CDNST Trailhead to edge of the forest on Bear Mountain Road, and another 48 miles through the Burro Mountains. The Silver City Ranger District includes some of the most accessible segments of Trail #74 through the Gila, with numerous trailheads and access points.

Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

33.006374, -108.115593 at Sapillo CDNST Trailhead

32.862507, -108.290047 at Wagon Wheel CDNST Trailhead

32.656902, -108.498894 at Redrock Road CDNST Trailhead

32.492470, -108.480377 at C Bar CDNST Trailhead

The 6.1-mile (one way) Bear Mountain Spur Trail #74A connects the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 with the Bear Mountain Road on LS Mesa. From Trail #74, Trail #74A turns west off of the ridge south of Stewart Peak and drops into Little Walnut Creek. The trail turns upstream and then climbs through a low saddle north of Bear Mountain, then onto LS mesa, crossing it to the northwest and coming to an end at the private land boundary near Forest Road 172 (Allen Springs Road). 

Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

32.846, -108.31982222 at Trail #74

32.86308333, -108.38132222 at Forest Road 172

Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 through the Burro Mountains, which includes more single-track trail and less hiking along open roadways. While the main CDT is accessed at Saddle Rock Road, Trail 74B begins at the edge of the forest boundary near Blacksmith Canyon and Mangas Creek. It crosses over hills and valleys on a southerly track, making its way into East Fork Schoolhouse Canyon and following it upstream, then climbing the ridge between the East and West forks of Schoolhouse and continuing south above the head of Barney Kerr Canyon to intersect the motorized Gnarly Trail #901. Trail 74B runs concurrent with Trail #901 for a short distance, then continues south above the head of Miller Canyon to its end at the Continental Divide Trail #74.

Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

The 1.25-mile (one way) Thirty Something Trail #74C connects Forest Road 506 (Bear Creek Road) off of Little Walnut Road near Feeley Subdivision with the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74. 

Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

South of New Mexico Highway 152 (Geronimo Trail National Scenic Byway), the Black Range Crest Trail #79 continues south for 7 miles (one way), straddling the crest of Black Range. The final 2 miles descends the west side of the range, following down the ridge between Donahue and Hot Springs canyons and coming to an end at Forest Road 886 (Royal John Road). Following Forest Road 886 about 1.8 miles east would lead to Donahue Trail #797.

Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

The 5-mile (one way) Donahue Trail #797 descends Donahue Canyon from Forest Road 886 (Royal John Road) west of Thompson Cone following the drainage bottom to the edge of the forest boundary south of Noonday Peak.

Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

The 7.6-mile (one way) Allie Canyon Trail #100 begins at Allie Canyon Trailhead, just south of the Wilderness Ranger District Office climbs west from Highway 35 to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 near Signal Peak. From the start, it climbs up and over a ridge, then drops into Allie Canyon.  At Allie Canyon, the trail continues west, following the canyon bottom. At 3.9 miles from the trailhead, Bear Canyon Trail #104 intersects on the south. Allie Canyon remains in the canyon bottom, following it all the way to the head of the drainage and ending at Forest Road 855A, (Lockney Road) and the Continental Divide Trail #74.

Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

The 5.4-mile (one way) Bear Canyon Trail #104 connects Allie Canyon Trail #100 with the Woodhaul Wagon Trail #55. From Trail #100, Trail #104 climbs south out of Allie Canyon, ascending a saddle along the ridge and then dropping into a tributary of Bear Canyon, and following it down to Bear Canyon Creek. At Bear Canyon, Trail #104 turns west and begins climbing up the drainage bottom. Near the confluence of Bear Canyon and Deadman Canyon, Trail #104 climbs out of the drainage bottom to begin contouring the south slope to reach Woodhaul Wagon Road Trail #55 at the end of Trail #104.

Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking

The 3-mile (one way) Railroad Canyon Trail #128 splits to the east off of Gallinas Canyon Trail #129, at the point where the two canyons meet, about 1.5 miles north of the campground. Trail #128 follows a stream up Railroad Canyon on this quiet journey through mixed conifer and aspen forest to the crest of the Black Range.

Trails #128 and #129 are very similar. The riparian ecosystem and old-growth forest offer many birding opportunities for forest species like Mountain Chickadees, Hermit Thrush, Nuthatches, Spotted Owls, warblers, and woodpeckers. The mountain crest and upper meadows are home to band-tailed pigeons, hawks, and wild turkey. Spring and summer offers cool streams and pleasant temperatures. August and September have the best wildflower displays. Mid to late October is the perfect time to hike to the crest and see the aspen in fall color. Trails #79 and #128 can be linked to make a 13.5-mile day trip. It's three miles across the crest on Trail #79 to link #129 and #128. This scenic loop passes through dense old-growth pine forest and has outstanding mountain views.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Plants, Viewing Wildlife 

Beautiful hike along a creek from Hwy 152 at Railroad Canyon Campground to Holden Prong Saddle.

The 4.9-mile (one way) Gallinas Canyon Trail #129 follows Gallinas Canyon on a pleasant journey through dense mixed conifer and aspen forests all the way to the crest of the Black Range. There are many creek crossings in the first 1.5 miles from the trailhead to the junction with Railroad Canyon Trail #128. The creek flows in most years and can be crossed on steppingstones. At the junction with Trail #128, Trail #129 ascends a slope to avoid an impassable section of the canyon but returns to the creek in 0.5 mile. The trail tops the crest in a saddle where it intersects the Black Range Crest Trail #79. Follow Trail #79 to the right (east) about .25 mile to see the mountain vistas. Trails #79 and #128 can be linked to make a 13.5-mile day trip. It's three miles across the crest on Trail #79 to link #129 and #128. This scenic loop passes through dense old-growth pine forest and has outstanding mountain views.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Plants, Viewing Wildlife 

Turkey Creek Trail splits to the north from Gila River Trail #124, about 1 mile northeast of Turkey Creek Trailhead, at the Turkey Creek/Gila River confluence. The first 1 mile of Trail #155 is outside of the Gila Wilderness boundary (2 miles from the trailhead).

This 28.5-mile (one way) trail has a great diversity of scenic beauty and ecosystems including rugged desert mountain, riparian habitat, and alpine forests. 

Trail 155 can best be described broken into two segments. The first segment is 17 miles long beginning from the trail head at the mouth of Turkey Creek to the saddle between Turkey and Little Creek. Except for a 3-mile section that follows a ridge from Skeleton Canyon to Sycamore Canyon, the trail stays in the canyon bottom. The vegetation is lush, and the creek forms many pools and small waterfalls. This segment is difficult for pack animals. 

The second segment of the trail, about 11 miles, is from the saddle at the upper end of Turkey Creek to the West Fork of the Gila River. This segment crosses over the Diablo Range and into McKenna Park. The park is a gentle sloping terrain of old-growth ponderosa pine. On the topographic quad maps this segment of #155 is called the Little Creek Trail. 

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

This 6.7-mile (one way) hike is one of the more popular routes providing access to the Gila River/Sapillo Creek confluence within the Gila Wilderness. Trail #231 heads north from Sheep Corral Road and travels down Sheep Corral Canyon for the first 2.4 miles to intersect Snow Creek Trail #233 heading the east. From here Trail #231 begins climbing up the western side of Sheep Corral Canyon, climbing to Forest Road 4083V, which it follows northward, maintaining the ridgetop until the trail begins descending in switchbacks to Sapillo Creek just east of its confluence with the Gila River. It is 4.1 miles from the trailhead to the wilderness boundary.

Good fishing for trout, bass, and catfish can be found at certain times of the year near the mouth of the Sapillo Creek.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding, Fishing, River and Stream Fishing   

The 8.9-mile (one way) Tadpole Ridge Trail #232 is a high elevation trail close to Silver City, traversing mixed conifer forests at elevations of over 8,500 feet along the top of Tadpole Ridge from Signal Peak Trailhead to Sheep Corral Trailhead. Trail #232 is a popular route for hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers due to its proximity to Silver City and the fact that the trailhead can be accessed by a paved road (New Mexico Highway 15) at the Signal Peak Trailhead. Trail #232 is maintained yearly, but past forest fires along the route plague the trail with blowdown and erosion. At the east and west ends of the trail, a steep ascent achieves the top of the ridge.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking   

32.939495, -108.197220 at Signal Peak Trailhead

32.976635, -108.307045 at Sheep Corral Trailhead

The 5.1-mile (one way) Snow Creek Trail #233 begins at the Snow Creek Trailhead off of Forest Road 282 (Sheep Corral Road), heading north down a tributary drainage of Cow Creek, then turning west and contouring across the head of West Canyon above Farm Flat, then crossing Forest Road 4083T to reach Sheep Corral Trail #231 at the bottom of Sheep Corral Canyon It is 3.2 miles to reach Trail #231. Trails #233 and #231 run concurrent for a short distance, until Trail #233 splits to the west near the top of the ridge, before the intersection with Forest Road 4083V. From the road, Trail #233 drops off of the ridge, crossing Snow Creek and climbing southwest to end at Forest Road 282 (Sheep Corral Road). Following the road south and east would be 3.5 miles to return to the Snow Creek Trailhead for an 8.6-mile round trip.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking 

The 8.4-mile (one way) Sycamore Canyon Trail #234 splits to the south from the Tadpole Ridge Trail #232, in a deep saddle on Tadpole Ridge at the head of Sheep Corral Canyon. From the saddle, Trail #234 contours eastward above the headwaters of Sycamore Creek tributaries, then swings west, dropping down to Sycamore Canyon and following it downstream. Near the confluence with Moore Canyon, Trail #234 turns south past the west side at the base of A Four Mountain and coming to an end in Bear Canyon. Trail #234 intersects Admin Trail 235SP, 7.2 miles out from Tadpole Ridge.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking 

32.96510833, -108.29289444 at Tadpole Ridge saddle

32.91572778, -108.29842222 at Admin Trail #235SP

The 1.6-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #235 follows a portion of the closed section of Forest Road 506 into Bear Canyon, ending at Horseshoe Bend and the beginning of Admin Trail #235SP.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, OHVs 50" or smaller

The 3.6-mile (one way) Admin Trail #235SP begins at the end of Motorized Trail #235 and heads upstream along Bear Creek. After about 1 mile, the trail turns north and climbs steeply up a ridge and ends at Sycamore Canyon Trail #234.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking 

32.90296389, -108.31198889 at Trail #235

32.91572778, -108.29842222 at Sycamore Canyon Trail #234

The 5.1-mile (one way) Goose Lake Trail #238 begins at the end of Forest Road 282 (Sheep Corral Road) and follows the crest of the Pinos Altos Range along the Gila Wilderness boundary. At 3.3 miles from the beginning of the trail, Pack Saddle Trail #732 intersects from the south as Trail #238 continues west along the ridgetop and comes to an end on Goose Lake Ridge at the head of Shelley Canyon in the Gila Wilderness.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding

The 3.2-mile (one way) Dorsey Canyon Trail turns west off of Forest Road 282 (Sheep Corral Road) and heads down Dorsey Canyon. 

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

32.99921111, -108.33081944 at Forest Road 282

32.99506389, -108.38214444 at fence line at west end of Trail #239

The 4.3-mile (one way) Little cherry Trail #241 follows a closed road along Little Cherry Creek from New Mexico Highway 15 to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74. About 1.8 miles east of Highway 15, the trail climbs the southern slope of the valley to bypass a section of private land and returns to the creek once past the private property. Continuing east, Trail #241 follows the creek to the head of the valley, where it ends at the Continental Divide Trail #74 and Sawmill Wagon Road Trail #243.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 6.5-mile (one way) Sawmill Wagon Road was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1979. The trail was an integral part of the original Fort Bayard Military Reservation in the late 1800s. Soldiers used the trail to transport fuelwood and construction timber from the high ponderosa pine forests of the Pinos Altos Mountain Range to the military reservation. 

Currently, the trail is available for use by hikers, cyclists, and equestrians wanting a quick and historic day of exploring. This trail forms one leg of various possible loops from the Big Tree trailhead. It connects to the north with the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 on the shoulder of Twin Sisters Peaks.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife 

The 8.5-mile (one way) Spring Canyon Trail begins at New Mexico Highway 15 along Sapillo Creek, following it downstream into the Gila Wilderness. After 1 mile, the trail enters the wilderness boundary, following the creek around a horseshoe bend, then climbing to the west just after passing the mouth of Spring Canyon to the north. On a westerly heading, the trail crosses over ridges and valleys north of Sapillo Creek. The last half of the trail distance contours across the slope, finally dropping back into Sapillo Creek just before it empties into the Gila River. Sheep Corral Trail #231 intersects on the south also just before the Gila River confluence.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, Nature Viewing, Viewing Wildlife 

The 1.8-mile (one way) Old Highway Trail #260 follows the old Highway 180 route from Dragonfly Trailhead to Bataan Memorial Park at Fort Bayard at the south end of the historic Fort Bayard Military Reservation. The crumbling asphalt of the old highway forms the foot path. This is a good exercise loop opportunity, connecting with Cross Country Course #722.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking 

The 2.1-mile (loop) Wagon Wheel Loop Trail #701 forms a loop trail opportunity north of Gomez Peak and Little Walnut Picnic Area. Two legs of Trail #701 head southeast and southwest from the south side of Little Walnut Road just east of Wagon Wheel subdivision. These segments connect with the northern portion of Picnic Loop Trail #714, running concurrent with Trail #714 for the southern leg of Wagon Wheel Loop. Trail grades along the loop are fairly gentle.

As part of the stacked loop Gomez Peak trail system, there are numerous possibilities for longer, shorter, easier, and more difficult hikes to suit every guest.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

35.86278611, -108.28214167 at Little Walnut Road

32.853958, -108.275192 at Little Walnut Picnic area

The 0.6-mile (one way) Eighty Mountain Trail #710 heads west off of Mountain Loop Trail #719 in the Gomez Peak trail network and ascends with a fairly steep climb along the northwest ridge to the top of Eighty Mountain at 7,466 feet. Follow Pinon Loop Trail #711 to Mountain Loop Trail #719 for access to Trail #710.

As part of the stacked loop Gomez Peak trail system, there are numerous possibilities for longer, shorter, easier, and more difficult hikes to suit every guest.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 1.6-mile (loop) Pinon Loop Trail #711 provides a short loop hike through the pinon-juniper woodland and ponderosa pines west of Gomez Peak Trailhead. The northern leg of Trail #711 follows Picnic Loop Trail #714 for about 0.25 mile, and makes connections with Mountain Loop Trail #719, Dragon Trail #718 and Angel Loop Trail #717. At its west end, Trail #711 arrives at a saddle between Gomez peak and a smaller unnamed peak to the north of it.

As part of the stacked loop Gomez Peak trail system, there are numerous possibilities for longer, shorter, easier, and more difficult hikes to suit every guest.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 0.9-mile (one way) Divide Access Trail #712 provides a connection from the Gomez Peak Trail System to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 to the northwest. Trail #712 turns north off of Mountain Loop Trail #719 at the north end of the loop for 0.1 mile to Wagon Wheel Loop Trail #701. Here, Trail #712 turns northwest, ending at Trail #74 just south of Walnut Creek.

As part of the stacked loop Gomez Peak trail system, there are numerous possibilities for longer, shorter, easier, and more difficult hikes to suit every guest.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 2.1-mile (loop) Picnic Loop Trail #714 provides a day hiking opportunity from the Little Walnut Picnic Area, following portions of Pinon Loop Trail #711 and Wagon Wheel Loop #701.

As part of the stacked loop Gomez Peak trail system, there are numerous possibilities for longer, shorter, easier, and more difficult hikes to suit every guest.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 1.7-mile (loop) Angel Loop Trail #717 turns south off of the southwest corner of Pinon Loop Trail #717 and circles Gomez Peak. At the south end of the mountain, it intersects Dragon Trail #718. Along the northeastern face of the peak, Gomez Peak Trail #71 turns south, climbing in switchbacks to reach the top of Gomez Peak at 7,268 feet.

As part of the stacked loop Gomez Peak trail system, there are numerous possibilities for longer, shorter, easier, and more difficult hikes to suit every guest.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 1.6-mile (one way) Dragon Loop Trail #718 connects with Angel Loop Trail #717 to form a loop either west of or around Gomez Peak. Trail #718 turns off of the northwest corner of Pinon Trail #711 and drops into the drainage west of Gomez Peak, following a lower path around the mountain, ending at Angel Loop Trail #717 on the south side of the peak.

As part of the stacked loop Gomez Peak trail system, there are numerous possibilities for longer, shorter, easier, and more difficult hikes to suit every guest.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 1.7-mile (loop) Mountain Loop Trail # 719 turns north off of the Pinon Loop Trail #711 at its northwest corner and makes a loop around and an unnamed peak on the northeast shoulder of Eighty Mountain. At the west end of Trail #719, in a saddle between the two peaks, Eighty Mountain Trail #710 turns west off of Mountain Loop Trail. At the north end of Mountain Loop, Divide Access Trail #712 heads north to its intersection with Wagon Wheel Loop Trail #701.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 2.9-mile (loop) Dragonfly Trail #720 is best known for the petroglyphs located approximately 2 miles from the trailhead. It is located in the southwestern portion of the historic Fort Bayard Military Reservation. Here visitors can see petroglyphs, enjoy the many live dragonflies during the right months and take in the breathtaking scenery.

While enjoying the petroglyphs make sure to:

• Take pictures
• Document where you see petroglyphs in a written form, i.e., a journal
• Leave only footprints; take only memories
• Respect ancient cultural artifacts
• Never deface rock art, or attempt to remove the rock art, or attempt to create your own rock art
• Never build fires near the rock art
• Avoid climbing or leaning on the rock art. Never chalk, trace or apply anything to the rock art panels
• Do not touch the petroglyphs as the oils from your hands can damage or change the pigments of the rock art

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, Outdoor Learning  

The 2.7-mile (loop) Crosscountry Course Trail #722 provides a trail running route connecting the Dragonfly Trailhead with the Crosscountry Course Trailhead. It crosses the southern end of the historic Fort Bayard Military Reservation.

Uses: Day Hiking, Trail Running, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking 

32.794800, -108.183937 at Dragonfly Trailhead

32.786518, -108.159363 at Crosscountry Course Trailhead

The 1.1-mile (one way) Old Golf Course Trail connects from the Woodhaul Wagon Road Trail #55 to Old Highway Trail #260, skirting around the northwest corner of the Fort Bayard National Cemetery.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 32.6-mile (one way) Gila River Trail follows the Gila River into the Gila Wilderness. After 2.3 miles, Trail #724 enters the wilderness and generally follows the mainstem of the Gila River through the canyon bottom all the way from Turkey Creek Trailhead upstream to the Gila River Trailhead at the Middle Fork/East Fork confluence.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding

33.067070, -108.498962 at Turkey Creek Trailhead

33.179768, -108.205887 at Gila River Trailhead

The 3.2-mile (one way) Servis Corrals Trail #725 connects across the historic Fort Bayard Military Reservation from the Dragonfly Trailhead to Servis Corrals Trailhead at the west end of Forest Road 110 (Fort Bayard Corral).  From Dragonfly Trailhead, Trail #725 heads north, intersecting the north end of Twin Sisters Creek Trail #726, Fenceline Trail #727, and Woodhaul Wagon Trail #55 along the way to Servis Corrals Trailhead at the west end of Forest Road 110 (Fort Bayard Corral).

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

32.794800, -108.183937 at Dragonfly Trailhead

32.86308333, -108.38132222 at Servis Corrals Trailhead

The 2-mile (one way) Twin Sisters Creek Trail #726 follows Twin Sisters Creek from Servis Corrals Trail #725 at its north end to Old Highway Trail #260 at its south end. The middle section of Trail #726 forms the eastern portion of the Dragonfly Trail #720 loop along the creek. Near its southern terminus, it intersects the south end of Fenceline Trail #727. From Dragonfly Trailhead, multiple stacked loop trail options are available for a variety of trip length options.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 3-mile (one way) Fenceline Trail #727 follows a closed road as it traverses north-south through the west side of the Fort Bayard to Big Tree trailhead areas. Trail #727 ends at Twin Sisters Trail #726 at the south end and at Cornell Ranch Trail #758 at the north end. The northern segment roughly parallels FS Nursery Road Trail #727 until they cross at Service Corrals Trail #725. The southern segment runs parallel and between Woodhaul Wagon Road Trail #55 and Twin Sisters Creek Trail #726.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 1.6-mile Pack Saddle Trail #732 turns north off of Dorsey Canyon Trail #239 at the bottom of Dorsey Canyon and climbs steeply to Goose Lake Trail #238 at the top of Goose Lake Ridge at the Gila Wilderness boundary.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Backpacking

Signal Peak Trail offers a nice high elevation hike through mixed conifer forest leading up to a lookout tower. The trail is located within the Pinos Altos Mountain range. From Signal Peak you have a commanding view in all directions. The full expanse of the Gila Wilderness lies to the west and north. Looking far to the south one can see faint mountain ranges that are close to the Mexican border. A close view to the south reveals the small community of Pinos Altos 2,000 feet below the peak.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding     

The 3.2-mile (one way) Bird Sanctuary Trail #745 follows the Gila River from the Gila Bird Area south into the lower Gila box canyon.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 8.6-mile (one way) Rabb Park Trail #747 follows Noonday Canyon a short distance from the Rabb Park Trailhead, then turns west and climbs to Rabb Canyon to the head of the canyon, then crosses over a ridge, dropping into Sheppard Canyon. Trail #747 heads northwest down the drainage a short distance, then turns up a tributary drainage and climbs over to East Canyon and the Quaking Aspen Trail #86 where Trail #747 ends.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 2.1-mile (one way) Big Tree Trail #755 is a popular destination for many local and out of town visitors to the historic Fort Bayard Military Reserve. The Big Juniper Tree is nationally ranked as the second largest alligator juniper tree in the United States (American Forests 1980, “National Register of Big Trees.” American Forestry Association, Washington, D.C.). Its diameter is 70.2 in, circumference is 18 ft. 4 in, crown spread is 62 feet., and height is 63 feet. 

The route to the Big Juniper Tree follows primitive roads that pass through the rolling foothills of the Pinos Altos Mountains which lie to the north. The trail length and gentle nature of the route leading to the Big Tree make it a pleasing choice. The route follows primitive roads that pass through the rolling foothills of the Pinos Altos Mountains. It is 1.6 miles to the Big Tree. The last 0.5 mile of trail leads to the Sawmill Wagon Road Trail #243.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, Nature Viewing,  Viewing Plants, Viewing Wildlife 

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 0.5-mile (loop) Motorized Trail #900 is located off of the south side of Forest Road 810 (Big Bear) in Saddle Rock Canyon, across from Gnarly Trail #901.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 5-mile (one way) Gnarly Trail #901 climbs onto and across a rough ridge and drops into North Fork Wild Horse Canyon, ending at Forest Road 4082C. Along the way, it crosses Burro Spur Trail #74B.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 1.25-mile Motorized Trail #902 provides an alternate route for vehicles 50 inches and narrower to travel from Forest Road 130 (T Bar T) in Black Hawk Canyon, to Forest Road 4088U (Goat Canyon Road) in Saddle Rock Canyon.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

the 5.8-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #903 connects Red Rock Road and Forest Road 118 (Saddle Rock Canyon) to Forest Ridge Road just north of Forest Ridge Trailhead

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 1.8-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #904 turns southwest off of Trail #903 and connects to Forest Ridge Road just south of Red Rock Road.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 0.9-mile Motorized Trail #905 connects Trail #904 and Forest Ridge Road.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 0.9-mile Motorized Trail #906 connects Forest Road 4246K (Blackhawk-Willow Creek Corral) in Maverick Canyon with Trail #903.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 2.3-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #907 connects 4246K (Blackhawk-Willow Creek Corral) climbing the ridge between Maverick Canyon and Willow Creek Canyon heading southwest to intersect with Forest Ridge Road.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 4-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #908 begins at Forest Road 4089O at Willow Creek and heads south along the forest boundary and ends at Forest Road 819 (Shrine Mine Road)

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 3.1-mile (one way) with Motorized Trail #909 connects Trail #908 and Trail #910 and ends at Forest Road 810 (Shrine Mine Road), providing a loop alternative.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 0.2-mile Motorized Trail #910 is a short connector between Trails #908 and #909, providing for a loop option.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 3.6-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #911 drops to the east off of Forest Road 810 into Whitewater Canyon, following drainages to the north, then cuts back west to end at Trail #908, just north of the end of FR 810, providing a loop option with Road 810.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

the 2.9-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #912 turns north off of Tyrone Road and passes near the forest boundary, past Old Tyrone Townsite Road toward California Gulch. Near its north end, Trail #912 intersects Trail #913 for access to Forest Road 827 (Deadman Road) in California Gulch.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 0.2-mile Motorized Trail #913 connects Trail #912 with Forest Road 827 in California Gulch.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 0.6-mile Motorized Trail #914 connects Trail #911 with Forest Road 827 (Deadman) in California Gulch.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 0.6-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #915 loops off of Trail #914 in a zigzagging track around an old mine site.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 1.2-mile Motorized Trail #917 connects the Tyrone Thompson Canyon Road with Forest Road 4089E in Road Canyon.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 1.2-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #918 turns west o of Forest Road 4033F and drops into Whitewater Canyon at Forest Road 4248Y.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 1.9-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #919 connects Forest Road 4249P with Trail #920 at Cherry Creek.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 2.5-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #920 connects to Forest Road 4033F at its north end, near Deadman Canyon, to Forest Road 828 at its south end.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 2.3-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #921 connects Forest Road 836 (Jack's Peak) through Arrastra Gulch west to the Tyrone Thompson Canyon Road with Forest Road 4089E. 

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 2.9-mile Motorized Trail #922 heads west from Jack's Peak Trailhead and connects to Gold Gulch Road.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 6.5-mile Motorized Trail #923 heads west from Gold Gulch Road, crosses Forest Road 861 (Knight Canyon), passes C Bar Trailhead, and ends at Forest Road 4091F in Picnic Canyon.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 2.3-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #925 heads west from Trail #924 and follows Powerline Canyon to New Mexico Highway 90, crosses Highway 90, heads west up Wood Canyon, and returns to Highway 90 across from Mill Canyon Road.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 4.1-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #925 travels south from Forest Road 156 (High Chaparrel) and follows the ridgetop toward Hornbrook Mountain. Before reaching the mountain, the trail turns east, crosses the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 and ends at Forest Road 4092M.

This route is part of a motorized trail and full-sized road system in the Burro Mountains. Motorized Trails are designated for use by vehicles 50 inches wide or narrower.  

The 3.2-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #926 turns south off of Forest Road 4092M and crosses the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74, then ends at Forest Road 4252G.

The 2.1-mile (one way) Woodland Park Trail connects Lilley Park Trail #164 with Prior Creek Trail #156. It follows an overland route through Woodland Park and past Woodland Park Tank.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 4.3-mile (one way) Jordan Canyon Trail #20 begins at the Black Mountain Lookout and Sam Martin Trail #23, Wolf Hollow Trail #773, and CCC Trail #772. Trail #20 heads southwest down the flank of Black Mountain, following the ridge east of Jordan Canyon. After it drops into Jordan Canyon, Trail #20 generally follows the drainage to its end at Green Fly Trail #26.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 6.2-mile (one way) Sam Martin Trail #23 connects Black Mountain Lookout with Meadow Trail #53. It passes through the northern end of the Gila Wilderness, generally following the bottom of East Water Canyon. At Sam Martin Spring, Green Fly Trail #26 intersects from the south. From her, Trail #23 contours across Indian Creek Canyon to its end at Homestead Trail #53.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 7-mile (one way) Cassidy Trail #25 connects Sam Martin Trail #23 with Green Fly Trail #26. Beginning at Trail #23 on the ridge between East Water Canyon and Christie Canyon, Trail #25 heads south, generally staying on high ground to its end at Green Fly Trail #26.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 13.8-mile (one way) Green Fly Trail #26 begins at the end of Forest Road 704 (Green Fly Road) and enters the east side of the Gila Wilderness.  Heading west, it skirts the bottom of Tommy Hill Canyon and Windfall Canyon, climbing the ridge west of Windfall Canyon. From here, it contours above Burnt Corral Canyon, before dropping into and crossing Jordan Canyon. In Jordan Canyon, Trail #26 intersects the south end of Jordan Canyon Trail #20. Green Fly Trail continues west, passing Tanks Trail #26A and Cassidy Trail #25. From here, Trail #26 heads northwest, coming to an end at Sam Martin Trail #23 in East Water Canyon.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 0.6-mile (one way) Tanks Trail #26A is a short spur off of Green Fly Trail #26, that heads southeast to its end at Green Fly tanks 1 and 2.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 6.6-mile (one way) White Rocks Trail connects Middle Fork Trail #157 with Adobe Springs Trail #804 and Green Fly Trail #26. Beginning at Middle Fork Trail, approximately 1.5 miles north of the Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center, White Rocks Trail #27 climbs to the east out of the Middle Fork canyon, climbing onto North Mesa. Upon reaching the Mesa top, Adobe Springs Trail #804 turns east across the mesa, while White Rocks Trail heads north on the mesa top, toward Iron Trail #771 , which it intersects near the eroded landscape of Whiterocks peak. Continuing northward, Trail #27 maintains an upland route, passing the head of Cement Canyon to the east, and ending at Green Fly Trail #26 in the head of Burnt Corral Canyon.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 6.7-mile (one way) Big Bear Trail #28 connects West Fork Trail #151 with Middle Fork Trail #157. Beginning a couple of miles upstream from the Gila Cliff Dwellings, Big Bear Trail #28 climbs to the north through steep switchbacks, ascending to the top of a ridge, following it to the Lilley Park Trail #164 along the Middle/West Fork watershed divide. From there, Big Bear Trail #28 turns northwest , following the bottom of Big Bear Canyon for a short distance, before traversing over to the Middle Fork Gila River Canyon, dropping in steep switchbacks to the end of Trail #28 at the river.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 4.7-mile (one way) Chicken Coop Trail #29 connects Prior Creek Trail #156 with Trotter Trail #30, generally following Chicken Coop Canyon. From its south end at Prior Creek, Trail #29 heads northwest and intersects the south end of Coop Mesa Trail #730. Trail #29 crosses the open base of No Name Canyon and Lilley Canyon, then crosses over Chicken Coop Canyon and tops the south end of Jackson Mesa and ends at Trotter Trail #30.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 10.4-mile (one way) Trotter Trail #30 connects the West Fork Trail #151 with Middle Fork Trail #157 via an overland route that passes east of Lilley Mountain. From its south end, Trail #30 begins across the river from the north end of Turkey Creek Trail #155 and climbs out of the West Fork Gila River canyon in wide switchbacks, achieving high ground north of the West Fork Gila River.  Trending northward, Trotter Trail crosses Lilley Park Trail #164 north of Little Canyon, then skirts past the base of Lilley Mountain on the east side, crossing Lilley Canyon, Chicken Coop Canyon, and the west end of Chicken Coop Trail #29. Trail #30 drops into and crosses Clear Creek and Clear Creek Trail #165, then turns northeast, following high ground to Flying V Trail #706, then drops into Swinging Cross Canyon and ends at Middle Fork Trail #157 and the Middle Fork Gila River.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 3.2-mile (one way) Canyon Creek Trail #31 connects Flying V Trail #707 with Middle Fork Trail #157. Approximately 1.5 miles south of Flying V Trailhead, Canyon Creek Trail #31 turns east toward Canyon Creek, dropping steeply into the canyon from the mesa top. From here, it follows the canyon bottom for 1.3 miles to reach Trail #157.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 18.3-mile (one way) Diamond Creek Trail #40 begins at Diamond Creek off of Forest Road 150 (North Star Road), near the north end of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness Area. Trail #40 follows Diamond creek, maintaining the drainage bottom the entire way to the Continental Divide at Diamond Peak. Along the way, it intersects Spring Mountain Trail #67 on the south about one-fourth of the way up Diamond Creek canyon, Caledonia Trail #42 on the north where Diamond Creek turns to the south, and Fisherman Canyon Trail #48 on the east just a few miles before Trail #40 climbs to  Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

33.305153, -107.850029 at Turkey Run Trailhead

33.290520, -108.062866 at Diamond Creek Trailhead

The 7.6-mile (one way) Meadow Trail leads from the Meadow Trailhead off of Forest Road 142 (Loco Mountain Road) into the Gila Wilderness. From the trailhead, the trail follows a gentle ridge to the east, avoiding private property at the end of the road. It is 1.25 miles to the Gila Wilderness boundary and the Wilderness Ranger District. After entering the wilderness area, the trail drops off of the ridge through several switchbacks. At the bottom of the ridge, the Sam Martin Trail #23 intersects from the east as Trail #53 turns west. Trail #53 crosses a minor drainage, intersects the east end of Homestead Trail #101, and turns south, staying above the west side of Indian Creek Canyon as it continues south toward the Middle Fork of the Gila River. Near its southern end, Trail #53 drops to the Gila River and ends at Middle Fork Trail #157.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 14.1-mile Spring Mountain Trail #67 connects Diamond Creek Trail #40 with the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 at Diamond Peak, offering an upland alternative to Diamond Creek Trail #40, which remains in the creek bottom. Trail #67 turns south off of Trail #40 at Baily Creek and begins climbing up a ridge to the east, following the highest line across South Mesa, then turning south, maintaining the mesa top to Spring Mountain. At Spring Mountain, Trail #67 turns east, still maintaining the ridge top between Diamond Creek and South Diamond Creek watersheds. Along the way, it intersects Turkey Park Trail #308 on the south and South Diamond Creek Trail #68 before the end of trail #67 at the Continental Divide at the north side of Diamond Peak.

This trail is located within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 15.5-mile (one way) South Diamond Trail #68 follows South Diamond Creek to its headwaters and Spring Canyon Trail #67. Trail #68 maintains the bottom of South Diamond Creek drainage for its entire route toward Diamond Peak. About half-way along, Me Own Trail #707 intersects from the south. Near the South Diamond Creek headwaters, Burnt Canyon Trail #69 turns south up Burnt Canyon, and Turkey Park Trail #308 heads north to Spring Mountain Trail #67. South Diamond Trail #68 ends at Spring Mountain Trail #67 in a saddle between Diamond Creek and South Diamond Creek, just below/northwest of Diamond Peak.

This trail is located within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 2.9-mile (one way) Burnt Canyon Trail #69 connects South Diamond Trail #68 with Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 south of Diamond Peak. Trail #69 turns south from Diamond Creek Trail #68, following the bottom of Burnt Canyon to the crest of the Continental Divide.

This trail is located within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

There is currently no access across private property to the trailhead. Trail 72B - Black Canyon Access must be used to access Trail 72 - Black Canyon. 

The 12.1-mile (one way) Black Canyon Trail #72 ascends the bottom of Black Canyon from Upper Black Canyon Trailhead along Forest Road 150 (North Star Road) to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 at the continental divide. Along the way, it intersects Aspen Canyon Trail #75. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 follows Trail #72 from the top of the Black Range to Aspen Canyon Trail #75.

This trail is located within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 traverses 248 miles (one way) of the Gila National Forest, encompassing dramatic scenery across five of the Gila's six ranger districts. Trail #74 enters the Wilderness Ranger District in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness Area, when the trail drops to the west into Black Canyon, off of the continental divide in the Black Range. Trail #73 passes through Black Canyon and Aspen Canyon, then climbs to Rocky Point Trailhead and crosses Forest Road 150 (North Star Road). West of North Star Road, Trail #74 stays on the ridge north of Rocky Canyon, then drops into Rocky Canyon and follows it to New Mexico Highway 36 at Sapillo Group Campground. Continuing south from Sapillo, Trail #74 enters the Silver City Ranger District.

This trail is located within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness and Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

33.006374, -108.115593 at Sapillo CDNST Trailhead

33.122131, -108.006966 at Rocky Point Trailhead

33.066605, -107.985443 at CDNST Mimbres Trailhead

The 5.2-mile (one way) Aspen Canyon Trail #75 is in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. Trail #75 connects Black Canyon Trail #72 with the CDT/Mimbres Access Trail #741. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 follows Trail #75 through Aspen Canyon. Trail #75 turns south from Black Canyon Trail and heads south, following the bottom of Aspen Canyon to its headwaters. When Aspen Canyon turns east toward Aspen Mountain, Trail #75 turns west up a side drainage and climbs to the top of the ridge. Near the ridgetop, Trail #75 ends where it intersects Trail #741.

This trail is located entirely within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 11.2-mile (one way) Mimbres Trail #77 crosses the southwest corner of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, connecting the CDNST/Mimbres Access Trail #741 with the Black Range Crest Trail #79. From Trail #741, Mimbres Trail turns east, dropping into Cooney Canyon and following it toward its headwaters. At the head of Cooney Canyon, Trail #77 turns southeast, dropping into Corral Canyon and following it downstream. Near the bottom of Corral Canyon, Trail #77 turns east and enters Mimbres River canyon, following the drainage bottom upstream to its headwaters. At the east end of the trail, it climbs to the Black Range Crest Trail #79 in the saddle south of Reeds Peak.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing

The 4.5-mile (one way) Middle Fork Mimbres River Trail connects Mimbres Trail #77 with South Fork Mimbres Trail #80 and Black Range Crest Trail #79 in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. Middle Fork Mimbres Trail #78 turns south off of Trail #77 at the Mimbres River/South Fork Mimbres River confluence, with Trail #78 following the south fork to the east. Trail #77 generally follows the bottom of the South Fork Mimbres River drainage until Trail #78 turns east, following an unnamed tributary to the Black Range Crest Trail #79 at the top of the ridge.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing

Black Range Crest Trail #79 follows the crest of the Black Range through the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, offering spectacular views of rugged canyons, the Rio Grande River valley to the east, and the Gila Wilderness and Mogollon Mountains to the west. Following the length of the Black Range is an exceptionally rewarding experience. This trail is broken into two segments, each beginning at Emory Pass on New Mexico Highway 152. Trail #79 going north toward Hillsboro Peak is almost all wilderness and suitable only for hiking and horseback. It traverses the highest peaks in the range as it follows along the crest. It's about 27.7 miles (one way) from the trailhead to Reeds Peak where it connects with Continental Divide Trail #74. 

The segment of Trail #79 that goes south from Emory Pass towards Sawyers Peak is 8.3 miles and terminates at Forest Road 886. 

This trail is located almost entirely within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing

33.030224, -107.852325 at McKnight Trailhead #79,

 33.004425, -107.856216 at  Board Gate Saddle Trailhead #79,

 32.910049, -107.766441 at  Emory Pass Trailhead #79

The 1.9-mile (one way) South Fork Mimbres River Trail #80 connects Middle Fork Mimbres River Trail #78 with Powderhorn Ridge Trail #82 in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. Trail #80 turns south from Trail #78 as the Middle Fork trail turns east up an unnamed tributary, while Trail #80 continues south, following the South Fork Mimbres River to its headwaters, and finally climbing to Powderhorn Ridge west of McKnight Mountain.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Nature Viewing

The 4.6-mile (one way) Powderhorn Ridge Trail begins at the end of Forest Road 151 (Powderhorn Ridge). The trail can be accessed with a high-clearance vehicle, or one can park at the McKnight Cabin Trailhead and hike the 3.2-miles of Forest Road 151 to access the beginning of the trail. Trail #82 begins near the valley bottom in South Fork Powderhorn Creek and climbs onto the ridge south of the drainage as it nears the Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary, following the ridge and contouring across slopes to its intersection with South Fork Mimbres River Trail #80, then maintaining the ridgetop as it continues east to its end at Black Range Crest Trail #79 at McKnight Mountain.

A portion of this trail is located within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. Please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling (outside the wilderness boundary) Horseback Riding, Nature Viewing

The 5.4-mile (one way) Quaking Aspen Trail #86 connects Rabb Park Trail #747 with Black Range Crest Trail #79 at the Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary. From East Canyon Trailhead, Trail #86 heads south, following Quaking Aspen Canyon. Trail #86 maintains the drainage bottom, intersecting Rabb Park Trail #747 soon after passing Aspen Spring. At Trail #747, Trail #86 turns east, continuing to follow the bottom of Quaking Aspen Canyon to its headwaters. Trail #86 swings north at the head of the canyon, climbing through a saddle and following a high, lumpy ridge to its end at Black Range Crest Trail #79.

This trail leads to the Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary. Please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horseback Riding, Nature Viewing

The 7.5-mile McKnight Cabin Trail #92 connects Forest Road 151 (Powderhorn Ridge Road) with McKnight Cabin near the Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary, and Black Range Crest Trail #79. From McKnight Cabin Trailhead, Trail #92 drops in steep switchbacks to the bottom of McKnight Canyon and turns east, following the bottom of the drainage upstream. Near the head of the canyon, Trail #92 leads to McKnight Cabin at the end of Forest Road 152 (McKnight Road). Following the road a short distance to the top of the ridge provides access to Black Range Crest Trail #79.

A portion of this trail is located within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. Please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horseback Riding, Nature Viewing

The 4-mile (one way) East Canyon Trail #93 connects East Canyon Trailhead and Quaking Aspen Trail #86 with Black Range Crest Trail #79 at the  Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary. From East Canyon Trailhead, Trail #93 follows the drainage bottom of East Canyon for about the first 2.5 miles. As east Canyon turns south, Trail #96 leaves the main drainage, turning north to follow an unnamed tributary as it climbs to its end at the Black Range Crest Trail #79.

This trail leads to the Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary. Please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Bicycling, Horseback Riding, Nature Viewing

The 2.5-mile (one way) Lower Black Canyon Trail #94 heads west from Lower Black Canyon Trailhead and Black Canyon Campground, following the bottom of the drainage west on an out-and-back route. Trail #94 makes no connections with any other trails.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 3.5-mile (one way) Big Timber Trail #95 turns west off of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 west of Rocky Canyon Campground and heads down Big Timber Canyon to its confluence with Apache Creek. This out-and-back trail does not make any other trail connections.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 9-mile (one way) Railroad Canyon Trail #96 follows the southern portion of the old Military Road from Railroad Canyon Trailhead along New Mexico Highway 35 to Apache Creek. From the trailhead, Trail #96 heads north into a wide dry wash. After about 1 mile, Trail #96 begins to climb out of the wash onto higher ground, maintaining the tops of ridges and mesas to its intersection with Gila Flat Trail #97. From here, Trail #96 continues north, following the tops of ridges to Apache Creek bottom.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 4.7-mile (one way) Gila Flat Trail #97 connects Railroad Canyon Trail #96 with New Mexico Highway 15 at Military Trail Trailhead It follows a portion of the old Military Road alignment across Gila Flat on a relatively easy grade, ending at Railroad Canyon Trail #96 on top of the ridge separating Salt Creek from Railroad Canyon.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 6-mile (one way) Homestead Trail #101 connects Meadow Trail #53 with Middle Fork Trail #157. From the west side of Indian Creek Canyon, Trail #101 heads west from Meadow Trail #53, initially climbing, then dropping into the next drainage to the west. Before reaching Canyon Creek, Trail #101 turns to the south, dropping into the Middle Fork Gila River canyon and ending at Middle Fork Trail #157.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 5.5-mile (one way) Bead Springs Trail #138 begins on the Reserve Ranger District, at the end of Forest Road 507 (Willow Creek Road). The first 0.25 mile is outside the Gila Wilderness boundary. Trail #138 follows the bottom of the Willow Creek drainage past Bead Springs to the Crest Trail #182. Trail #138 was burned over by the Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire and has many standing dead trees, and deadfall. The trail is difficult to trace due to long-term restoration needs.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 2.9-mile (one way) Cooper Trail #141 connects West Fork Trail #157 with Clayton Mesa Trail #175, providing an alternate route to Middle Fork Trail #157. Trail #141 turns east off of West Fork Trail #151 where it climbs southward out of Iron Creek canyon toward Turkeyfeather Pass. Cooper Trail heads east, contouring across minor drainages and Clayton Mesa, ending at Clayton Mesa Trail #175 above Clayton Creek.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 3.1-mile (one way) Loco Mountain Trail #143 provides access from Loco Mountain Road north of the Gila Wilderness boundary into the wilderness to the Middle Fork Gila River and Middle Fork Trail #157. From the trailhead, Trail #143 follows the ridge west of Porcupine Canyon at a gentle grade. The last section of trail drops steeply off of the ridge to the Middle Fork Gila River.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 1.2-mile (one way) Granite Peak Trail #150 is a short out-and-back spur to the top of Granite Peak from Turkey Creek Trail #155. Trail #150 turns east from Turkey Creek near the creek's headwaters, ascending the north face of Granite Peak. Granite Peak Trail #150 offers a panorama of the Gila Wilderness. 

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 32.7-mile (one way) West Fork Trail #151 connects the northern edge of the Gila Wilderness at Willow Creek with the West Fork Gila River and ultimately, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Trail #151 is one of the hallmark trails of the Gila Wilderness. It follows the West Fork of the Gila River through a beautiful, deep, winding canyon with spectacular volcanic cliff formations. There are many river crossing per mile and boots that can be worn for wading are recommended. Many trails can be connected to cross the Gila Wilderness but #151 is one of only two trails that completely traverses the wilderness. The southern trail head is at the Gila Cliff Dwellings and the northern trail head is at Willow Creek. Along the way, it intersects the Hells Hole Bypass Trail #785, Big Bear Canyon Trail #26, EE Canyon Trail #163, and West Fork Shortcut Trail #151A.The trails that connect with #151 can be linked to make several very interesting loops through the interior of the wilderness. These loops provide opportunities for extended pack trips in quiet solitude and a wonderful variety of scenic canyon, mesa, and mountain terrain. Trail #151 is relatively impassable from Willow Creek Trailhead to White Creek Cabin. White Creek Cabin southeast to Big Bear #28 has been worked, but there are sections that may be challenging or obstructed. 

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

, 33.399970, -108.583400 at Willow Creek Trailhead

33.22975159, -108.2654953 at West Fork Trailhead

The 9.1-mile (one way) Mogollon Baldy Trail #152 connects West Fork Trail #151 with Mogollon Baldy Lookout and Crest Trail #182. Trail #152 turns south of of West Fork Trail #151 at White Creek Flat on Cub Mesa and crosses White Creek. After crossing White Creek and climbing out of the drainage, Langstroth Trail #302 intersects on the south. Trail #152 heads west, climbing Cub Mesa and ascending the ridge between White Creek and Langstroth Canyon toward the Mogollon rim south of Mogollon Baldy peak. Upon reaching the top of the ridge, Trail Canyon Trail #169 intersects from the east and Gobbler Canyon Trail #221 intersects from the south.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 7.1-mile (one way) Mogollon Trail #153 begins at 74 Mountain Trailhead and enters the Gila Wilderness, climbing over the east flank of 74 Mountain, where it intersects Rain Creek Trail #189. Then it drops into Mogollon Creek, and heads upstream to intersect with Gobbler Canyon Trail #221 and Kemp Trail #301. 

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

Turkey Creek Trail splits to the north from Gila River Trail #124, about 1 mile northeast of Turkey Creek Trailhead, at the Turkey Creek/Gila River confluence. The first 1 mile of Trail #155 is outside of the Gila Wilderness boundary (2 miles from the trailhead).

This 28.5-mile (one way) trail has a great diversity of scenic beauty and ecosystems including rugged desert mountain, riparian habitat, and alpine forests. 

Trail 155 can best be described broken into two segments. The first segment is 17 miles long beginning from the trail head at the mouth of Turkey Creek to the saddle between Turkey and Little Creek. Except for a 3-mile section that follows a ridge from Skeleton Canyon to Sycamore Canyon, the trail stays in the canyon bottom. The vegetation is lush, and the creek forms many pools and small waterfalls. This segment is difficult for pack animals. 

The second segment of the trail, about 11 miles, is from the saddle at the upper end of Turkey Creek to the West Fork of the Gila River. This segment crosses over the Diablo Range and into McKenna Park. The park is a gentle sloping terrain of old-growth ponderosa pine. On the topographic quad maps this segment of #155 is called the Little Creek Trail.  Trail #155, Little Creek Trail #161, and Miller Springs Trail #159 can be linked to make a 3 to 4 day loop trip.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 5.7-mile (one way) Prior Creek Trail #156 connects Big Bear Trail #28 with Lilley Park Trail #164. From its east end, Trail #156 heads west off of Big Bear Trail #28 above Middle Fork Gila River, at the top of the Big Bear Trail switchbacks. The first half of Trail #156 follows an upland route and intersects the north end of Woodland Park Trail #12 just south of Prior Creek, then turns into Prior Canyon and follows the drainage to the end of the trail at Lilley Park Trail #164.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 41.4-mile (one way) Middle Fork Trail #157 begins at the headwaters of the Middle Fork Gila River, Gilita Creek. The trail follows the bottom of Gilita Creek drainage eastward from the trailhead and enters the Gila Wilderness after 0.5 mile. About 6 miles downstream, the Snow Lake Trail #112 intersects from the left as Trail #157 continues downstream on the Middle Fork Gila River. Trail #151 intersects Iron Creek Trail #171 and Clayton Mesa Trail #175 near the Iron Creek/Middle Fork confluence, and Loco Mountain Trail #143 not long after. A few miles farther downstream, Trotter Trail #30 intersects on the south and then Aeroplane Mesa Trail #705 intersects on the north, then the Flying V Trail #706 crosses Trail #157 another half mile beyond. Continuing downstream, the canyon walls grow higher as the trail enters a tightly winding, narrow section of the river canyon until the next trail intersection with Canyon Creek Trail #31. Continuing downstream, the canyon straightens out, and Homestead Trail #101 intersects on the north, shortly followed by Coop Mesa Trail #730 on the south. After another tightly winding section of river canyon, Big Bear Trail #25 intersects on the south, followed by Meadow Trail #53 on the north. Trail #157 continues along the Middle Fork River, passing the side drainages of Indian Creek, Brothers West Canyon, House Log Canyon, and Jordan Canyon before the next trail intersection with Little Bear Trail #729 on the south. Soon, the river and trail swing to the south, coming to an end a few miles later at Middle Fork Trailhead.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

33.409360, -108.575200 at Gilita Trailhead

33.225758, -108.241150 at Middle Fork Trailhead

The 4.8-mile (one way) Sycamore Trail #158 connects Kemp Trail #301 and Cienega (Upper Mogollon Creek) Trail #177 with Turkey Creek Trail #155. From the east end of Kemp Trail #301, Sycamore Trail heads north up Tumbo Canyon, climbing steeply toward McKenna Park. At the top of the drainage, Trail #158 crosses east of Johnson Canyon and heads north across McKenna Park, ending at its intersection with Turkey Creek Trail #155.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 2.5-mile (one way) Miller Springs Trail connects Granny Mountain Trail #160 to Turkey Creek Trail #155 northwest of Granny Mountain. Trail #159 climbs steeply to the south out of Turkey Creek Canyon, ascending the ridge north of Miller Spring Canyon, then crossing to the south over its headwaters before ending at Granny Mountain Trail just south of Miller Spring Canyon. Trail #159 Little Creek Trail #161, and Turkey Creek Trail #155 can be linked to make a 3 to 4 day loop trip. 

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 20.4-mile (one way) Granny Mountain Tral #160 is a challenging trail that takes backcountry travelers into solitude of the heart of a rugged and remote section of the Gila River. The first segment from TJ Corral to Miller Springs, about 14 miles, is moderate. It can be linked with the Miller Springs Trail #159, Turkey Creek Trail #155, and Little Creek Trail #161 to form a nice 4-day loop.

The second segment of Trail #160 from Miller Springs over Granny Mountain to the Gila River, about 9 miles, is difficult. The trail ascends a long ridgeline up to Granny Mountain then descends steeply down the south side to the Gila River. There are outstanding views of the rugged wilderness canyon country through which the Gila River flows. The trail ends at the Gila River where the options are to go up or down river on Trail #724.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Fishing, River and Stream Fishing, Nature Viewing,  Viewing Scenery, Viewing Wildlife   

The 8.6-mile (one way) Little Creek Trail #161 provides a connecting route to remote parts of the wilderness. Little Creek is a long, shallow valley with open grassy parks and stands of ponderosa pine. The valley is wide enough to offer privacy for camping away from the trail. At its upper end, Trail #161 junctions with Turkey Creek Trail #155, providing access to upper Turkey Creek or to the southern expanse of McKenna Park by crossing over the Diablo Range. Trail #161, Turkey Creek Trail #155, and Miller Springs Trail #159 can be linked to make a 3 to 4 day loop trip.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding   

The 12.4-mile (one way) Ring Canyon Trail #162 connects from Granny Mountain Trail #160 at the east end to Turkey Creek Trail #155 at its west end. Along the way, it intersects EE Canyon Trail #163, Little Creek Cutoff Trail #789, Horse Springs Trail #187, and McKenna Creek Trail #167. From Granny Mountain Trail, at the top of the ridge between West Fork Gila River and Little Creek, Ring Canyon Trail #162 follows a ridgetop route to its intersection with Little Creek Cutoff Trail #789. From here, Trail #162 leaves the ridgetop, crossing White Rocks Canyon and Nat Straw Canyon to reach Ring Canyon. At Ring Canyon, the trail follows the drainage bottom upstream to its headwaters, climbing to McKenna Park and its intersection with Horse Springs Trail #187. Trail #162 continues west, entering McKenna Creek and intersecting McKenna Creek Trail #167 before ending at Turkey Creek Trail #155.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 2.8-mile (one way) EE Canyon Trail #163 connects West Fork Trail #151 with Ring Canyon Trail #162. About 1 mile west of West Fork Trailhead, EE Canyon Trail turns south from West Fork Trail #151, following the bottom of EE Canyon to its headwaters at the top of the ridge. At the ridge top, Trail #163 ends at Ring Canyon Trail #162.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery

The 25.2-mile (one way) Lilley Park Trail #164 provides access from Little Bear Trail #729 with Turkeyfeather Pass and West Fork Trail #151, following a high-country route between the west and middle forks of the Gila River. Trail #164 turns west off of Trail #729 at the head of Little Bear Canyon, contouring across slopes and climbing to the top of the West Fork/Middle Fork Gila River divide.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 2.8-mile (one way) Clear Creek Trail #165 connects Lilley Park Trail #164 with Trotter Trail #30 via the Clear Creek drainage. The trail follows the drainage north of Lilley Mountain. As Clear Creek drainage turns east toward Lilley Mountain, Trail #165 turns west and climbs through a saddle to intersect Lilley Park Trail.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 1.1-mile (one way) McKenna Creek Trail #167 connects Horse Springs Trail #187 with Ring Canyon Trail #162 via McKenna Creek canyon. It provides a cutoff across McKenna Park.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery

The 5-mile (one way) Trail Canyon Trail #169 Connects Mogollon Baldy Trail #152 and Gobbler Canyon Trail #221 with Mogollon Trail #153. From Mogollon Baldy Trail #152, Trail #169 heads east, following the southeastern ridge around the heads of Corral Canyon and Trail Canyon to the south. Coming around the east of Trail Canyon, Trail #169 ends at Mogollon Trail #153 on top of the ridge between Trail Canyon and Rawmeat Creek.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery

The 6.3-mile (one way) Iron Creek Mesa Trail #171 connects the West Fork Trail #151 with Middle Fork Trail #157. Trail #171 turns east off of Trail #151 as #151 begins to drop into Iron Creek drainage. Trail #171 stays on top of Iron Creek Mesa north of Iron Creek, taking a shorter route across the uplands to access the Middle Fork Trail #157. At its east end, Trail #171 drops down a steep ridge to the confluence of Iron Creek and Middle Fork Gila River.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery

The 6.5-mile (one way) Whitewater Baldy Trail #172 connects Crest Trail #182 with West Fork Trail #151. From Trail #182 on the east side of Whitewater Baldy peak, Trail #172 heads east, generally dropping elevation as it follows the top of the ridge north of Iron Creek. Trail #172  ends at Trail #151 about a half-mile inside the Gila Wilderness Boundary south of Willow Creek Trailhead.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery

The 5.3-mile (one way) Clayton Mesa Trail #175 connects West Fork Trail #151 and Lilley Park Trail #164 with Middle Fork Trail #157 at Iron Creek. Trail #175 turns north off of Trail #164 just east of Turkeyfeather Pass and heads northeast down the upper Clayton Creek drainage. The east end of Trail #141 intersects on Clayton Mesa, then Trail #141 crosses the mesa to the north, then drops steeply to the Middle Fork Gila River and ends at Trail #157.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery

The 6.9-mile (one way) Cienega (Upper Mogollon Creek)Trail #177 connects Turkey Creek Trail #155 at the east end with Sycamore Trail #158 at the west end. From Trail #158, Cienega Trail #177 follows Mogollon Creek upstream toward its headwaters. As Trail #177 approaches the high ridge of Diablo Range at its headwaters, Trail #177 turns south up a side drainage and passes south of the Diablo Range, over a saddle into Little Creek drainage. Following this drainage downstream, Trail #177 ends at Turkey Creek Trail #155.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery

This 11.8-mile (one way), high elevation trail offers hikers spectaculars views of the Gila Wilderness. This trail is known as the Crest Trail because it generally follows the crest of the Mogollon rim from Sandy Point, past Whitewater Baldy, and along the crest to Mogollon Baldy. The trail passes through the 2012 Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire and patches of remnant mature mixed conifer forest and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Gila National Forest. Much of the burned area is regenerating, offering visitors the opportunity to witness forest succession in real time. There is a fire lookout tower located atop of Mogollon Baldy. 

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

The 4.2-mile (one way) Horse Springs Trail #187 connects Ring Canyon Trail #162 with Turkey Creek Trail #155. From Ring Canyon Trail #162 at the head of Ring Canyon, Horse Springs Trail #187 heads northwest across McKenna Park. I t crosses upper McKenna Creek and intersects the east end of Mogollon Trail #153, then drops to Horse Springs in a drainage and climbs back onto the mesa to its end at Turkey Creek Trail #155 above the West Fork Gila River.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

The 6.2-mile (one way) Gobbler Canyon Trail #221 connects Mogollon Trail #153 with Mogollon Baldy Trail #152 and Trail Canyon Trail #168. From Mogollon Trail at Mogollon Creek, Gobbler Canyon Trails begins climbing north and west, crossing over the bottom of Judy Canyon, then crossing the ridge over into Gobbler Canyon. Once reaching the bottom of Gobbler Canyon, Trail #221 follows the drainage to its headwaters, then climbs in steep switchbacks to its end at the top of the high ridge south of Mogollon Baldy Peak at Mogollon Baldy Trail #152 and Trail Canyon Trail #169

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Nature Viewing, Viewing Scenery   

This 6.7-mile (one way) hike is one of the more popular routes providing access to the Gila River/Sapillo Creek confluence within the Gila Wilderness. Trail #231 heads north from Sheep Corral Road and travels down Sheep Corral Canyon for the first 2.4 miles to intersect Snow Creek Trail #233 heading the east. From here Trail #231 begins climbing up the western side of Sheep Corral Canyon, climbing to Forest Road 4083V, which it follows northward. At the end of the road, Trail #231 enters the wilderness boundary, maintaining the ridgetop until the trail begins descending in switchbacks to Sapillo Creek just east of its confluence with the Gila River. It is 4.1 miles from the trailhead to the wilderness boundary.

Good fishing for trout, bass, and catfish can be found at certain times of the year near the mouth of the Sapillo Creek.

Uses: Day Hiking, Backpacking, Horse Riding, Fishing, River and Stream Fishing   

Spring Canyon Trail offers spectacular views of the Sapillo Box. 

The 8.5-mile (one way) Spring Canyon Trail begins at New Mexico Highway 15 along Sapillo Creek, following it downstream 1 mile to the Gila Wilderness. Trail #247 climbs out of Sapillo Creek and follows rolling canyon country as it parallels the creek, until it drops back down to Sapillo Creek at its confluence with the Gila River. In cool months, it can be a very pleasant route. Sheep Corral Trail #231 intersects on the south also just before the Gila River confluence.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 1.8-mile (one way) Hells Hole Trail #268 is a short, steep trail connecting West Fork Trail #151 and Hells Hole Bypass Trail #785 in the West Fork Gila River canyon, with Lilley Park Trail #164 at the southwest corner of Woodland Park. From Lilley Park Trail #164, Hells Hole Trail #268 drops steeply to the west on the eastern slopes of Hells Hole Canyon.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 2.7-mile (one way) Kemp Trail #301 connects Mogollon Trail #153 with Sycamore Trail #158 and Cienega (Upper Mogollon Creek) Trail #177. Trail #301 follows the bottom of Mogollon Creek Canyon from Trail Canyon to Tumbo Canyon. 

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 4-mile (one way) Langstroth Trail #302 connects Mogollon Trail #153 with Mogollon Baldy Trail #152. Trail #301 follows a zigzagging path, climbing and descending ridges and valleys, beginning in Rawmeat Creek and crossing Trail Creek and Langstroth Canyon to end at Mogollon Baldy Trail #152, overlooking White Creek Canyon.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 2-mile (one way) Turkey Park Trail #308 connects Spring Mountain Trail #67 to South Diamond Trail #68. From South Diamond Trail #68, Trail #308 climbs to the north, following an unnamed tributary to Spring Mountain Trail #67 at the top of the watershed divide, between Spring Mountain and Diamond Peak.

This trail is located entirely within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary. Please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 7.3-mile (one way) Brushy Mountain Trail #403 connects Gila River Trail #724 with Granny Mountain Trail #160. From the mainstem Gila River, Brushy Mountain Trail climbs steeply to the north across the river from Alum Canyon. Trail #403 climbs approximately 1,300 feet to achieve the top of the ridge. Once on the ridgetop, Trail #403 turns west, following it to the top of Brushy Mountain. From the mountain top, Trail #403 heads southwest along a ridge and ends at Granny Mountain Trail #160 near Little Turkey Park.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 1.1-mile (one way) Brannon Park Trail connects Rocky Canyon Campground with the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74. Trail #700 climbs about 300 feet in elevation out of Rocky Canyon, ending at the Continental Divide Trail once it reaches the ridgetop.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 3.8-mile (one way) Aeroplane Mesa Trail #705 begins at Aeroplane Mesa Campground, providing access to the Gila Wilderness, Middle Fork Trail 157, and the Middle Fork Gila River.  Along the way, it offers mountain vistas and beautiful, high-elevation, open grasslands with stands of ponderosa pine. Trail #705 descends the grassy, southern slopes of Loco Mountain and traverses Aeroplane Mesa. The gently rolling, open grassland and distant mountain vistas offers a tempting invitation to wander across this beautiful countyside. Stands of ponderosa pine occur in canyons and on hill tops and provide shelter for the elk herds that favor this open country. At the end of Aeroplane Mesa the trail descends 500 feet into the canyon of the Middle Fork of the Gila River. This is an excellent trail for access to this upper segment of the river. At the Gila River Trail #705 connects with the Middle Fork Trail #157 which follows the length of the river from Snow Lake to the Gila Cliff Dwellings. It also connects with the Trotter Trail #30 which leads to the West Fork of the Gila River.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 5-mile (one way) Flying V Trail #706 provides access into the Gila Wilderness, Canyon Creek Trail #31, Middle Fork Gila River, and Trotter Trail #30. From the trailhead west of Canyon Creek at the wilderness boundary, Trail #706 gradually loses elevation as it heads south. After about 1.5 miles, Canyon Creek Trail #31 intersects from the east, while Trail #706 turns southwest toward Flying V Canyon. The trail drops off of the upland, into and down Flying V Canyon to the Middle Fork Gila River. Here, Trail #706 crosses the river and continues southward, climbing up onto the mesa to end at Trotter Trail #30.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding   

The 4-mile (one way) Me Own Trail connects from Me Own Trailhead east of Me Own Airstrip with South Diamond Trail #68. From the trailhead, Trail #707 follows the ridgetop east, staying north of upper Tom Moore Canyon, then circling south of Me Own Hill. At its east end, Trail #707 drops in steep switchbacks to South Diamond Trail #68 at the bottom of South Diamond Creek canyon.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding   

The 13.4-mile (one way) Tom Moore Canyon Trail connects Forest Road 150 (North Star Road) with the East Fork of the Gila River, ending at private property. Along the way, it connects with Link Trail #713 and Middle Mesa Trail #716. From Tom Moore Trailhead, Trail #708 heads east for 0.8 mile to the Gila Wilderness boundary. Trail #708 generally follows the bottom of Tom Moore Canyon for about 6 miles to its intersection with Link Trail #713. Soon after its intersection with Trail #713, Trail #708 turns south and climbs out of the drainage over Tom Moore Mesa to Rolling Tank, where it intersects Middle Mesa Trail #716. From here, Trail #708 heads southwest across a mesa and drops through steep switchbacks to the East Fork Gila River at the river's confluence with Corral Canyon.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding   

The 5.6-mile (one way) Military Road Trail #709 is an out-and-back trail that follows a ridgetop from the Military Trail Trailhead on New Mexico Highway 15 to the East Fork Gila River. The Military Trail #709 from the trailhead to 1.2 miles in was logged and brushed in 2021. This trail has expansive views, and follows the old military road into the Gila Hot Springs. This is only an out and back trail because of the private property on the East Fork.  DO NOT trespass on the private property. 

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 4.2-mile (one way) Link Trail connects the end of Forest Road 4068 (Links Trailhead Road) at the northeast end of the Gila Wilderness to Tom Moore Trail #708. From the trailhead in North Star Canyon, the trail climbs over ridges and drainages, ending at Tom Moore Trail #708 in Tom Moore Canyon.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding 

The 7.6-mile (one way) Middle Mesa Trail #716 connects Forest Road 150 (North Star Road) with Tom Moore Trail #708. From the Middle Mesa Trailhead, Trail #716 heads west along the top of Middle Mesa, then drops into the head of Corral Canyon, following the drainage downstream for a couple of miles, then turns north, ending at Tom Moore Trail #708 near Rolling Tank.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The 32.6-mile (one way) Gila River Trail follows the Gila River into the Gila Wilderness from the Gila River Trailhead. After 0.5-mile, Trail #724 enters the wilderness and generally follows the mainstem of the Gila River through the canyon bottom all the way to Turkey Creek Trailhead.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding

33.179768, -108.205887 at Gila River Trailhead

33.067070, -108.498962 at Turkey Creek Trailhead

The 4.4-mile (one way) Little Bear Trail #729 connects between West Fork Trail #151 and Middle Fork Trail #157. From TJ Corral Trailhead, Trail #729 heads north, climbing over the watershed divide that separates the west and middle forks of the Gila River. Near the top of the climb, Lilley Park Trail #164 splits to the west, while Little Bear Trail begins to drop into Little Bear Canyon, which it follows to the end of the trail at Middle Fork Trail #157.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The 2.9-mile (one way) Coop Mesa Trail #730 connects Chicken Coop Trail #29 with Middle Fork Trail #157. From its south end, Trail #730 departs Trail #29 to the north at Chicken Coop Canyon. Trail #730 climbs from Chicken Coop Canyon and over a ridge, then drops toward Middle Fork Gila River, coming to and end at Middle Fork Trail #157 across the river from Homestead Trail #101.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 3.3-mile (one way) CDT-Mimbres Access Trail #741 connects to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 from Forest Road 150 (North Star Road). Trail #741 climbs on an overland route between Cooney Canyon and Terry Canyon, ending at its intersection with Trails #74 and #75.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Horse Riding

The 8.6-mile (one way) Rabb Park Trail #747 follows Noonday Canyon a short distance from the Rabb Park Trailhead, then turns west and climbs to Rabb Canyon to the head of the canyon, then crosses over a ridge, dropping into Sheppard Canyon. Trail #747 heads northwest down the drainage a short distance, then turns up a tributary drainage and climbs over to East Canyon and the Quaking Aspen Trail #86 where Trail #747 ends.

Uses: Day Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking

The 5.2-mile Iron Trail #771 connects White Rocks Trail #27 with Adobe Springs Trail #804 near Trails End Trailhead. From Trail #804, Iron Trail heads northwest, following the top of the ridge between Cement Canyon and Adobe Canyon. After skirting the head of Adobe Canyon, Trail #771 comes to an end at White Rocks Trail #27.

Trail #804 to Trail #27 to Trail #771 forms a 12.5-mile loop along the eastern edge of the Gila Wilderness.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 4.6-mile CCC Trail #772 connects Black Mountain Lookout with the eastern edge of the Gila Wilderness at CCC Canyon. From Black Mountain Lookout, Trail #772 heads southeast, following the ridge west of CCC Canyon. The trail maintains high ground, dropping off of the ridge and ending at Forest Road 4208P.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing 

The 3.5-mile (one way) Squeaky Trail #774 follows the crest of the Continental Divide from the head of Black Canyon, connecting Black Canyon Trail #72 and Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74 to the Black Range Crest Trail #79 at Reeds Peak.

This trail is located entirely within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing 

The 1.5-mile (loop) Purgatory Chasm Trail #779 offers an easy, loop day hike from the Lake Roberts area. From the Purgatory Chasm Trail #779 heads north along a dry wash. Where two drainages come together near the Gila Wilderness boundary, the trail splits left and right. Following the right (east) fork, the trail climbs gently up onto the ridge, continuing north through an open pinon-juniper woodland, with views overlooking the slot canyon to the east. Continuing north, Trail #779 crosses over the mesa and drops into another slot canyon west of the mesa, following it downstream for the return to the trailhead. There is one short section of trail that requires a scramble over a 10-foot drop where the drainage drops steeply.

This trail enters the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing 

The 0.6-mile (one way) Hells Hole Bypass Trail #785 is in the Gila Wilderness. It connects West Fork Trail #151 with Hells Hole Trail #268. It follows the West Fork Gila River around an incised oxbow to connect with Trail #268 that is otherwise bypassed by the main West Fork Trail #151. It provides an upstream route along the West Fork Gila River from the bottom of Hells Hole Trail #268.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing 

The 1.25-mile (one way) Alum Camp Trail #788 is in the Gila Wilderness. It is a short, steep trail that drops from New Mexico Highway 15 to the mainstem Gila River west of the highway.

This trail is located almost entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing 

The 0.8-mile (one way) Little Creek Cutoff Trail connects Ring Canyon Trail #162 with Little Creek Trail #161. Trail #789 turns south from Ring Canyon Trail #162 at the top of the ridge above White Rocks Canyon, following a minor drainage to Little Creek.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing 

The 0.4-mile Pictograph Canyon Trail #800 (also known as Spirit Canyon Trail) is a short, out-and-back day hike from Upper End Campground at Lake Roberts. An alternate access point is Pictograph Nature Trail Trailhead along New Mexico Highway 35 just east of Upper End Campground. The trail leads south, following the bottom of the drainage. Look for ancient rock art and interesting geologic formations along the trail.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing

The 1.75-mile (one way) Lake Roberts Trail circles most of the way around Lake Roberts, except for the willow-laden east end. From the boat launch, Trail #801 follows along the shoreline of the lake to the west. At the dam, Trail #801 drops down below the spillway and climbs back up the slope on the south side of the dam, continuing to the east along the southern shore of the lake. A sturdy bridge carries hikers across a deeper cut in the slope, and the trail ends at Upper End Campground.

Uses: Day Hiking, Nature Viewing, Fishing

The 0.8-mile (one way) Caves Trail turns off of Brannon Park Trail #700 and heads down Rocky Canyon. The trail ends at a section of the canyon with rocky, eroded slopes with numerous alcoves, rock outcrops, nooks, and crannies. A good day hike destination for exploring from Rocky Canyon Campground.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 4.8-mile (one way) Adobe Springs Trail #804 connects Trails End Trailhead with White Rocks Trail #27. From Trails End Trailhead, Adobe Springs Trail heads west, generally following the East Fork Gila River. Just past Cement Canyon, Iron Trail #771 splits to the north, while Trail #804 maintains the low ground in the river canyon for approximately 1.6 miles, then turns up Adobe Canyon, following that drainage to Adobe Spring. At the spring, Trail #804 turns west, climbing to the top of North Mesa and ending at White Rocks Trail #27.

Trail #804 to Trail #27 to Trail #771 forms a 12.5-mile loop along the eastern edge of the Gila Wilderness.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

The 2.9-mile (one way) West Fork Corral Trail #814 connects Lilley Park Trail #164 with West Fork Trail #151. Trail #814 follows an overland route south of Jerky Mountains and drops to the West Fork Gila River and ends at West Fork Trail #151.

This trail is located entirely within the Gila Wilderness, so please remember to follow all wilderness ethics guidelines. Make sure to Leave No Trace.

Uses: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing

Motorized Trails 960 through 964A are associated with Sapillo Group Campground and Skates Canyon. The 1.6-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #960 leaves the west side of Forest Road 4241 and heads west and north. At its west end, it connects with Forest Roads 4206, 4206L, and 4206U for continued OHV opportunity.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

Motorized Trails 960 through 964A are associated with Sapillo Group Campground and Skates Canyon. The 1-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #961 is an out-and-back route that heads north from Sapillo Group campground loop 4241I. It heads through a small wash, parallels New Mexico Highway 35 for a short distance, then enters a minor draw and ends.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

Motorized Trails 960 through 964A are associated with Sapillo Group Campground and Skates Canyon. The 0.35-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #962 is a connector between Trails #960 and 961. 

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

Motorized Trails 960 through 964A are associated with Sapillo Group Campground and Skates Canyon. The 0.5-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #963 provides out-and-back access onto the ridge east of the campground. It turns east off of Forest Road 4078T just south of New Mexico Highway 35.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

Motorized Trails 960 through 964A are associated with Sapillo Group Campground and Skates Canyon. The 1.7-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #964 connects with Forest Road 88 (Skates Canyon) and extends about 1.2-miles southwest up Skates Canyon for out-and-back exploring. It turns south off of Forest Road 4078T just before the campground loops.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

Motorized Trails 960 through 964A are associated with Sapillo Group Campground and Skates Canyon. The 0.2-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #964A is an alternate route over the top of the ridge between Sapillo Group Campground and Skates Canyon.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 2.1-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #965 turns off of Forest Road 4079R to the west Forest Road 150 (North Star Road) and cuts northwest across North Star Mesa. At the drop off to Terry Canyon, Trail #965 turns southwest along the ridge. At its southwest end, it intersects Motorized Trail #966.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 1.65-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #966 runs parallel to Motorized Trail #965 along the top of a ridge between Terry Canyon and Lincoln Canyon.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 2.7-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #967 turns east from Forest Road 150 (North Star Road) across from Forest Road 4079R, connecting the North Star Road with the Mimbres River. Trail #967 follows the top of a ridge between ET Canyon and Mimbres River Canyon, ending at Forest Road 4080T (Mimbres River Road).

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 5.2-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #968 turns east off of Forest Road 150 (North Star Road) and connects with Forest Road 4080T a short distance north of New Mexico Highway 35. Trail #968 also connects with Motorized Trails #969, 970, 971, and 972 along the way. From Forest Road 150 south of ET Canyon, Trail #968 heads south, generally maintaining the ridgetop west of Mimbres River Canyon. Trails #969, 970, and 971 are all short spurs that explore adjacent ridges.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 0.4-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #969 turns east From Trail #968 for an out-and-back trip out onto a ridgetop.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 0.5 mile (one way) Motorized Trail #970 turns west from Trail #968 for an out-and-back trip onto a ridgetop.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 0.5 mile (one way) Motorized Trail #971 turns west from Trail #968 for an out-and-back trip onto a ridgetop.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 2-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #972 connects Trail #968 with Elkhorn Road off of New Mexico Highway 53. From Trail #968, Trail #972 turns south, following down the nose of a short ridge into a canyon and following the canyon bottom at Elkhorn Road. Trail #972 follows Elkhorn Road south to the edge of private property, where it ends.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 0.3-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #973 is a short, out-and-back route that heads north off of Motorized Trail #974 up a side drainage.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 0.65-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #974 connects Trails #972, 973, and 974A with Forest Road 4206B.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

A 0.1-mile (one way) connector to Trail #974 from private land.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 1-mile (one way) Motorized Trail #975 turns south from the east side of Forest Road 150 (North Star Road) and heads down a drainage for out-and-back exploration.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 6.8-mile Motorized Trail #976 turns east from Forest Road 4080T (Mimbres River Road), heading upstream along the unnamed drainage north of Powderhorn Canyon. At a fork in the drainage, Trail #976 ascends the ridge, climbing onto and across Hay Mesa. Continuing on a northeasterly course, Trail #976 maintains the ridge top north of Powderhorn Canyon, ending at the Aldo Leopold Wilderness boundary.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 0.25-mile Motorized Trail #977 turns north off Forest Road 4204A on the north side of the North Fork Mimbres River Canyon. The short spur trail climbs to the base of a rocky cliff with a loop turnaround at the end.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 0.5-mile Motorized Trail #978 is a short spur that turns northwest of Forest Road 4085N (Upper Cottonwood Road) and Forest Road 4085T. Trail #978 travels out on a ridgetop overlooking Soldiers Canyon to the north.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 1.9-mile Motorized Trail #979 is an out-and-back route that travels up McKnight Canyon from the end of Forest Road 4080X. 

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 4.8-mile Motorized Trail #980 travels through East Canyon from the edge of private land, upstream. It is accessed by Motorized Trail #981, off of Forest Road 4086X (Juan Mesa Road). There is no public access across private property at the mouth of East Canyon at New Mexico Highway 35. Do not enter private land without explicit permission.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing

The 0.7-mile Motorized Trail #981 provides access to Trail #980 in East Canyon from Forest Road 4086X (Juan Mesa Road). Trail #981 turns south, following the nose of a ridge to the bottom of the canyon.

Uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Bicycling, E-Biking, OHV, Dispersed Camping, Nature Viewing, Wildlife Viewing