Chloride Canyon — Gila National Forest Southwest New Mexico

This is one of the most remote and rewarding runs in New Mexico — 160 miles of off-road through the heart of the Gila National Forest with dispersed camping along the way. If you’ve been looking for a trip that actually gets you away from everything, this is it.

About the Trail Chloride Canyon runs through some of the most storied off-road country in the Southwest. The canyon road crosses Chloride Creek more than 100 times crossing depths vary with the season and snow melt and the route crosses the Continental Divide three times. Total off-road mileage is approximately 150 miles.

Expect washboard surfaces, loose rocks, and steeper grades throughout. The lower canyon areas are primarily rocky surface with several low-level washes that can run around 10 inches deep. Several sections are narrow shelf roads that are single-vehicle-width with little to no room to pass oncoming traffic.

History Chloride was a bustling silver mining town of 3,000 residents in the 1880s, under constant threat of Apache attacks. At its peak it had 200 buildings — now down to 20. The silver played out by the 1890s and the price collapsed when America moved to the gold standard. There are petroglyphs on the canyon walls and two lookout towers along the route.

Getting There Take I-25 South from Albuquerque and exit at Elephant Butte. Fuel up at Pat’s Chevron on NM-195 — this is your last guaranteed fuel stop before the trail. From there take NM-181 to NM-52 North through Cuchillo and Winston straight to the Chloride Canyon trailhead. Plan for roughly 2.5 to 3 hours from Albuquerque to the start.

Camping This is a multi-day run with dispersed camping available throughout. Camping options range from dispersed sites along the route to established campgrounds with vault toilets and potable water. Snow Lake is a standout camping spot with CDT trail access, fishing, and wildlife views. Pack everything you need — once you’re in the canyon you’re committed.

What to Bring

• High clearance 4WD required
• Top off fuel in Albuquerque and again at Elephant Butte — no guaranteed fuel after that until Reserve, NM
• Recovery gear — chainsaw and straps recommended for tree removal
• Water and food for multiple days
• A chainsaw and multiple straps for tree removal is recommended
• Check fire restrictions before heading out — this is Gila National Forest

Fuel Plan

• ⛽ Albuquerque — top off before leaving
• ⛽ Elephant Butte — Pat’s Chevron on NM-195, mandatory stop
• ⚠️ Winston General Store — fuel if open, do not rely on it
• ⛽ Reserve, NM — next guaranteed fuel on the far end