Big Bear Trail #28
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.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Accessibility
This trail is not constructed to be accessible for people with disabilities.
General Information
Closest Services:
The nearest services are 45 miles south in Silver City, New Mexico.
Connecting Trails:
West Fork Trail #151
Lilley Park Trail #164
Prior Creek Trail #156
Open year-round
There is no fee for use of this trail
Permits are required for commercial and organized groups entering the forest.
Filter water from West Fork and Middle Fork Gila River. Water otherwise not available along this trail.
This trail is designated for non-motorized, non-mechanized uses.
All stock feed brought onto the Gila National Forest must be certified weed free.
Contact Phone: 575-536-2250
Address: 3697 Hwy 35 N., HC 68 Box 50 Mimbres, NM 88049
Phone: (575) 536-2250
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
33.22975159, -108.2654953 at West Fork Trailhead
Parking
Ample parking at West Fork Trailhead
Directions
The trailhead is at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument 1.5 miles from the Visitor Center. Follow NM 15 north from Silver City to the Cliff Dwellings. The travel time is 1 hour, 45 min.
Additional Information
Operated By
US Forest Service
