Iron Gate Trailhead
Important Note: During the open season (roughly April through November), the campround and trailhead are OPEN to the public but visitors may encounter a closed gate on Forest Road 223. This gate is for livestock management. Please feel free to enter through the gate but close it again once you pass through. Thank you for your cooperation.
This Trailhead is located inside the Iron Gate Campground. Situated above 9,000 feet, Iron Gate Trailhead provides the closest access to panoramic views of the Pecos Wilderness via Hamilton Mesa Trail 249. Forest Road 223 is which provides access to this trailhead is rough and recommended only for high clearance vehicles.
General Information
May - November, weather permitting
- New Mexico Enchantment Pass
- Interagency Passes
- Need help deciding which pass is right for you?
Pecos Wilderness Restrictions:
- Camping and campfires are prohibited in the following areas:
- Beatty’s Flats
- Pecos Falls
- within 50 feet of a trail, stream, or river
- within 200 feet of a lake
- All garbage and refuse must be packed out. Do not bury garbage or try to burn aluminum.
- Mechanized equipment (including chainsaws) is prohibited in Wilderness areas.
- Do not shortcut switchbacks on trails.
- Possessing, storing, or transporting any part of a tree or plant is prohibited, with the exception of dead and down wood for campfires.
- Do not tie horses to trees for more than 2 hours. Use highlines or pickets.
- The maximum group size for camping, hiking, or riding is 15 people, whether for day or overnight use.
- The maximum number of pack and saddle stock allowed in a group is 15.
- Camping for more than 14 consecutive days in one place is not allowed.
- Domestic goats and sheep are prohibited in the Pecos Wilderness in order to protect the bighorn sheep population from disease.
- Storing equipment or supplies is prohibited.
Day Use:
$5 per vehicle per day
$5.00 per vehicle per day, or use the New Mexico Enchantment Pass or an Interagency Pass.
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 35.83996841
Longitude: -105.62059768
Directions
23 miles north of Pecos on NM 63 and Forest Road 223. FR 223 is a rough dirt road and may not be suitable for low clearance passenger vehicles.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
