This is a great hike, especially if you would like to spend a night at Sapillo Campground. Leaving Hwy 35 and hiking north on the CDT you will get to enjoy a relatively flat trail that meanders through grassland and sparse forest. After 2.5 miles, you’ll reach Sapillo Creek, which offers refreshing shade and typically has water. Continue on the trail for 2.5 more miles and enjoy rewarding views of the surrounding area. Continue 1 mile further, and you’ll reach Brannen Park. Here you’ll find old corrals, seasonal water, and good camping and picnic spots.
Lake Roberts/Hwy 35 to Sapillo Creek, Gila National Forest
Difficulty
Easy
Maps
USGS 7.5 quadrangle: North Star Mesa; CDTC Map Set: Map 031, Section NM09.
Length
Variable (5 – 12 miles)
Directions
From Silver City, take US-180 E/Silver Heights Blvd for 7.5 miles. Turn left onto NM-152 N and continue for 14.3 miles. Then turn left onto NM-35 N. Lower Rocky Trailhead and the CDT crossing will be on the right after 20.3 miles.
Closest Town
Silver City
For More Information
Gila National Forest, Silver City Ranger District: (575)-388-8201, and Wilderness Ranger District: (575)-536-2250.