Pinon, Wagon Wheel and Mountain Loop Trail

This route combines sections of the Pinon Loop Trail (#711), Mountain Loop Trail (#719), and Wagon Wheel Loop Trail (#701) within the Gomez Peak trail system. It's part of an interconnected network in the Gila National Forest near Silver City, New Mexico, offering a varied hiking experience.

The full loop, covering approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles), generally takes around 2 hours to complete. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail winds through a diverse landscape, primarily featuring piñon-juniper woodlands and ponderosa pines. You'll experience gentle inclines and descents as it traverses between Gomez Peak and other smaller, unnamed peaks. The path is generally well-maintained and suitable for hiking.

Yes, the route is generally considered easy, making it suitable for beginners and families. The interconnected loop system allows for flexibility, so you can choose to do shorter sections if desired. It's a great way to introduce new hikers to the beauty of the Gila National Forest.

The trail is accessible from the Gomez Peak trail system. A convenient starting point is the Little Walnut-Gomez Peak Day Use Area, which offers parking facilities. From there, you can easily connect to the various loops that make up this route.

No, there is no usage fee required for hiking this trail, nor do you need a permit to access the Gomez Peak trail system within the Gila National Forest. The trails are open to the public year-round.

Yes, the trails within the Gomez Peak system, including the Pinon, Wagon Wheel and Mountain Loop Trail, are generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you pack out any waste to help keep the trails clean for everyone.

The trail is open year-round, offering different experiences throughout the seasons. Spring and fall generally provide the most pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures. Summer can be warm, so an early start is recommended, while winter hikes are possible but be prepared for cooler temperatures.

There are no water sources directly on the trail, so it's crucial to carry enough water for your entire hike. Basic facilities might be available at the Little Walnut-Gomez Peak Day Use Area, but it's always best to be self-sufficient. The nearest services, including shops and restaurants, are about 7 miles south in Silver City, New Mexico.

Yes, this route is part of a larger interconnected system. It utilizes sections of the Mountain Loop Trail, Pinon Loop Trail #711, and Wagon Wheel Loop. These trails also connect to others like the Divide Access Trail (#712), Dragon Trail (#718), and Angel Loop Trail (#717), offering many options to extend or vary your hike within the Gomez Peak system.

The piñon-juniper woodlands and ponderosa pines provide habitat for various wildlife. You might spot deer, rabbits, and a variety of bird species. The trail also offers scenic views of the diverse forest environment and the surrounding peaks, especially as you reach higher points.