Pelona Mountain Mining District Loop
Extreme mining district exploration
The Pelona Mountain Mining District Loop explores the ruins of long-abandoned copper and silver mines scattered across this rugged range southwest of Las Vegas. Starting from NM-65, the route climbs through oak and pine to reach the ghost camp of Mineral Hill, then descends treacherous switchbacks to the old Pelona townsite before looping back via Hermit Peak Road.
This extreme route demands advanced 4WD skills, with 35-inch tires, lockers, and armor recommended for the boulder fields and off-camber descents above 8,500 feet. Best attempted June through September when snow clears the high passes. No services for 60+ miles, and cell coverage is nonexistent. Carry GPS, recovery gear, and plenty of water. The payoff is total solitude among mining ruins and panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo range that few ever see.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Extreme |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 41 mi / 66 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8600 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD, 35-inch tires, lockers |
| Nearest town | Las Vegas, New Mexico |
| Land manager | Santa Fe National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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