Brannon Park Trail #95

Brannon Park Trail #95 is a long-distance hike in Gila National Forest near Silver City, on the Wilderness Ranger District. The route is designated for non-motorized, non-mechanized use, and it runs on unpaved tread (high-clearance footwear recommended).

The trailhead is at Rocky Canyon Campground, with access into the Gila Wilderness from there. Expect a canyon start with Rocky Canyon walls before the route settles into a more sustained wilderness walk.

Physically, the hike is a moderate to strenuous canyon-and-ascent effort, with steep climbing early on and additional grade depending on how far you go. Elevation gain varies by itinerary, and the most commonly described outings range from about a 7-mile out-and-back to a 9.8-mile loop option.

The route ties into the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT). One common way to use #95 is as a connector toward CDT hiking out of the Brannon Park area, rather than as a standalone short loop.

Terrain shifts are part of the character: it starts through steep canyon conditions, then transitions toward ponderosa-park type landscapes, with occasional water features/crossings noted near the Sapillo Creek area on some itineraries.

For logistics, day hiking doesn’t require a permit. Water on the overall trip can be limited and sporadic, so plan for carrying enough between sources on your chosen mileage; Leave No Trace ethics are required in the wilderness.

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