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 | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock truck handle the Pelona Mountain Mining District Loop?
No way. You need a heavily modified 4WD with 35-inch tires minimum, front and rear lockers, and rock sliders. Stock vehicles will get destroyed on the technical rock sections.
Is this trail passable in winter or spring?
Hell no. Snow blocks the high passes from October through May, and even June can have surprise storms at 8600 feet. Stick to June-September only.
Do I need permits to run the Pelona Mountain Mining District?
No permits required since it's on Santa Fe National Forest land. Just follow Leave No Trace principles around the historic mining sites.
What's the gnarliest section of this loop?
The climb up to the main mining district around mile 18 is brutal - loose rock, off-camber shelves, and serious pucker factor. Multiple vehicles have rolled here.
How much fuel should I carry for this 41-mile loop?
Pack extra fuel beyond your normal range. The extreme terrain and constant 4-low crawling will double your fuel consumption, plus Las Vegas NM is your only resupply for 100+ miles.