WS Mountain Trail #43
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, beginning 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.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Accessibility
This trail is not constructed to be accessible for people with disabilities.
General Information
US Forest Service
not applicable
There is no fee for use of this trail
Permits are required for commercial or organized uses.
Stream nearby. Water quality is not tested. It is advisable to filter or treat all drinking water.
This trail is designated for non-motorized, non-mechanized uses.
All stock feed brought onto the Gila National Forest must be certified weed free.
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
33.590435, -108.960945 at WS Mountain Trailhead
Parking
Ample parking available at WS Mountain trailhead
Directions
From the town of Reserve follow Forest Road 141 to approximately 35 miles and turn south toward Negrito on County Road 28 for 9.5 miles, then turn east on Catron County Road 021 for approximately 10 miles to Aeroplane Mesa Campground and Trailhead. Travel time about 2 hours.
From the town of Glenwood follow US Highway 180 approximately 4 miles north and turn east onto New Mexico Highway 159 for approximately 30 miles, following it to Forest Road 28 for 6 miles, then turn east on Catron County Road 021. New Mexico Highway 159 is not recommended for horse trailers. Travel time about 2 hours.
