Prior Creek Trail #156
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.
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:
Big Bear Trail #28
Woodland Park Trail #12
Chicken Coop Trail #29
Lilley Park Trail #164
Open year-round
There is no fee for use of this trail.
Permits are required for commercial and organized groups entering the forest.
Water is not generally available along this trail. Filter, boil, or treat water drawn from natural water sources.
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
