Hiking & Biking Trails

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Willie White Trail

Willie White Trail
Attractions
Willie White Trail is located near the Rio Penasco in the beautiful Sacramento Mountains of southern New Mexico.  The trail is approximately 3.25 miles long, and climbs from 8,000 feet where it leaves the Penasco, to over 9,350 feet at the junction of Willie White Trail (T113) and Will's Canyon Trail (T5008).

Access
Take Highway 130 south from Cloudcroft for 1.9 miles. Turn right (west) onto Sunspot Road (6563). Travel south for 8.4 miles, then turn left (east) onto Rio Penasco Road (Forest Road 5009) which is 1.9 miles from the junction of 6563 and 164.  See the map on the left for more details (click on the map for a larger view).

 

Recommended Season
Although open all year, the trail is most heavily used in the summer and fall. The trailhead at the Willie White Canyon and the access point form Water Canyon are often used for camping by trail users.  This trail is open for motorized use by ATVs up to 50" wide.  Cross-country skiers and snowshoers can enjoy the trail after heavy snows.

Considerations
Rio Penasco Road (FR 164) can be rough when wet or snowy, so use caution when driving under adverse conditions.  The area is subject to sudden weather.  There is no potable (drinkable) water along the trail - be sure to bring plenty of water with you.   Sturdy footwear, warm clothes, and rain gear are recommended.  The trail is open to hikers, mountain bikes, horses and ATVs up to 50" wide.  Please be considerate of other trail users.

Facilities
There are no facilities at the trailhead or along the trail, but there is a restroom at Bluff Springs (see map).  There is no water along the trail.  The nearest facilities are located in Cloudcroft (gas, food, lodging, etc.).

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Rim Trail

Attractions
Located on the western rim of New Mexico's beautiful Sacramento Mountains, the Rim Trail winds through pine and fir trees, quaking aspen, and green meadows for 22 miles.   There are several access points from Highway 6563.  This trail is open to hikers, Mountain bikes, horses, and ATVs 50" wide or less. Please be considerate of other trail users.

Access
Take Highway 130 south from Cloudcroft for 1.9 miles.  Turn right (going west) onto Sunspot Highway (6563) and travel 2/10s of a mile.  There is a paved pullout at the entrance to Slide Campground for trailhead parking. See the map on the right for more details (click on the map for a larger view).

Rim Trail
 

Considerations
Rim Trail (T105) is an easy to moderate hike, but can be rough in places.  Hikers should wear tough, sturdy boots and carry plenty of water during all seasons. Be aware that weather conditions are subject to rapid, extreme changes.  Always let someone know where you will be hiking and when you expect to return.

Facilities
There are no developed camping facilities along this trail. Atkinson field is a popular undeveloped camping place, and there are other undeveloped camping spots along the trail. There is no drinking water available along the trail, so backpackers and horseback riders should carry their own water supplies.  The nearest facilities are located in or near Cloudcroft (gas, groceries, restaurants, etc.).

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