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Gallinas Canyon Trail #129
Trail 129 follows Gallinas Canyon on this pleasant journey through dense mixed conifer and aspen forests all the way to the crest of the Black Range.
Trail 129 follows Gallinas Canyon to the crest of the Black Range. There are many creek crossings in the first 1.5 miles from the trail head to the junction with Railroad Canyon Trail 128. Except for dry years, the creek is flowing and can be crossed on stepping stones. At the junction with Trail 128, Trail 129 ascends a slope to avoid an impassable section of the canyon but returns to the creek in a half mile. The trail tops the crest in a saddle where it intersects the Black Range Crest Trail 79. Follow 79 to the right (east) about .25 mile to see the mountain vistas.
Trails 79 and 128 can be linked to make a 13.5 mile day trip. It's three miles across the crest on Trail 79 to link 129 and 128. This scenic loop passes through dense old-growth pine forest and has outstanding mountain views.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Beautiful creek walk from Hwy 152 at Railroad Canyon Campground to Holden Prong Saddle. |
|---|---|
| Usage: | Light |
| Closest Towns: | Silver City, NM |
| Water: | Stream nearby. Water quality is not tested. It is advisable to filter or treat all drinking water. |
| Restroom: | Pit Toilet at trailhead |
| Information Center: | Silver City Ranger District Phone: (575)388-8201 |
General Information
Parking:The parking area at the trailhead is not well situated for horse trailers. There is a pit toilet and a few picnic tables near the parking lot.
Directions:
From Silver City go east on U.S. 180 about six miles then turn left on NM 152. Follow NM 152 about 28 miles into the Black Range. The trailhead for Trail 129 is found at the east end of Railroad Canyon Campground across Gallinas Creek.
General Notes:
Closest Stores:
Silver City is 34 miles from the trailhead and provides airport, auto services, gas, groceries, lodging, medical facilities, restaurants, and shopping.
Gallinas Creek will be flowing except in very dry years. Within the first 1.5 miles of this trail, there are many creek crossings; wading will be necessary if the creek is running high. Trail 129 follows Gallinas Creek for 4.5 miles. The last .5 mile leaves the creek and enters aspen high forest finally topping out at the Black Range Crest Trail - #79.
Activities
Day Hiking
Trail 129 follows Gallinas Canyon on this pleasant journey through dense mixed conifer and aspen forests all the way to the crest of the Black Range.
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Elevation desc | 7080 - 9000 Feet |
| Status: | Open |
|---|---|
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
Backpacking
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Elevation desc | 7080 |
Horse Riding
Viewing Wildlife
The riparian ecosystem and old-growth forest offer many birding opportunities for forest species like Mountain Chickadees, Hermit Thrush, Nuthatches, Spotted Owls, warblers, and woodpeckers. The mountain crest and upper meadows are home to band-tailed pigeons, hawks, and wild turkey. Gallina, a Spanish word, can mean "chicken or hen" but usually refers to "gallina de la tierra", the wild turkey.
| Status: | Open |
|---|
Viewing Plants
Spring and summer offers cool streams pleasant temperatures. August and September have the best wildflower displays. Mid to late October is the perfect time to hike to the crest and see the Aspen in fall color.
| Status: | Open |
|---|