Black Range Crest Trail #79
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 National Scenic 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.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Accessibility
This trail is not constructed for accessibility by people with disabilities.
General Information
Closest services:
Hillsboro is about 17.8 miles east of the trailhead and provides food and lodging.
Connecting Trails:
Squeaky Trail #774
Ladrone Gulch Trail #127
East Railroad Canyon Trail #130
Hillsboro Bypass Trail #412
Railroad Canyon Trail #128
Holden Prong Trail #114
Gallinas Canyon Trail #129
Sid's Prong Trail #121
East Canyon Trail #93
Quaking Aspen Trail #86
McKnight Cabin Trail #92
Powderhorn Ridge Trail #82
Lake Trail #110
Middle Fork Mimbres Trail #78
Spud Patch Trail #111
Mimbres Trail #77
Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #74
Not applicable
There is no fee for use
Permits are required for commercial or organized uses.
Springs on the mountain crest depend on winter snow pack. If winters have been mild, springs may be unreliable. Water may be found by descending into canyons on any of the connecting trails. How far the descent is to water depends on how much moisture there has been. Water quality is not tested therefore it cannot be guaranteed to be drinkable. It is advisable to filter or treat all drinking water.
This trail is designated for non-motorized uses. Bicycles are prohibited on those portions of trail within the Aldo Leopold Wilderness.
All stock feed brought onto the Gila National Forest must be certified weed free.
Contact Phone: 575-894-6678
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
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
Parking
Parking is available at Emory Pass Trailhead.
Directions
From the town of Hillsboro go 17.8 miles west on NM 152. At the crest of the Black Range turn right (east) at Emory Pass Vista and go one-tenth mile to the vista parking area. The trail head for #79 going north toward Hillsboro Peak is just before you enter the parking area. Parking for #79 going south toward Sawyers Peak is on the west side of NM 152 across from the turnoff to Emory Pass Vista.
From Silver City go east on U.S. 180 about six miles then turn left on NM 152. Follow NM 152 about 32.5 miles to Emory Pass Vista.
Additional Information
Operated By
US Forest Service
Recreation Opportunities
Horseback Riding Info
All stock feed brought onto the Gila National Forest must be certified weed free.