Trotter Trail #30
Trotter Trail #30 is a remote, one-way 10.4-mile overland hike entirely within the Gila Wilderness in southwestern New Mexico. The route links West Fork Gila River canyon access (via West Fork Trail #151) to Middle Fork Gila River access (via Middle Fork Trail #157).
The trail climbs out of the West Fork canyon on wide switchbacks to high ground near Lilley Mountain, then traverses across multiple drainages. Expect a mix of canyon travel, ridge/high-country contouring, and repeated up-and-down as it moves between tributaries.
Northbound, the route trends past Lilley Park Trail #164 and skirts the east base of Lilley Mountain before crossing Lilley Canyon and Chicken Coop Canyon. It also crosses the west end of Chicken Coop Trail #29, setting up the later transitions toward Clear Creek.
After clearing Chicken Coop Canyon, Trotter Trail #30 drops to cross Clear Creek and then reaches Clear Creek Trail #165. From there it turns northeast, staying on higher ground toward Flying V Trail #706 before dropping into Swinging Cross Canyon to finish at Middle Fork Trail #157.
Water is limited and unreliable along much of the line; flowing streams can be filtered at crossings, but there isn’t consistently reliable water elsewhere on the trail. For wilderness route planning, pack to cover long stretches between dependable crossings.
Because the entire route is designated for non-motorized, non-mechanized travel and sits inside wilderness regulations, plan around Leave No Trace ethics and group-permit requirements for commercial or organized groups. The trail runs open year-round with no recreation fee, but permits are required for those group types.
For logistics, access is commonly done via the Aeroplane Mesa Trailhead (parking at Aeroplane Mesa Trailhead or West Fork Trailhead) for a through-travel day. The recommended approach roads come via Forest Road 141, then County Road 28, then Catron County Road 021 to Aeroplane Mesa Campground and trailhead parking.
Pre-trip, scout the access approach and committed stream crossings before you commit—especially if rain is in the forecast—then re-check current conditions and alerts before departure since river levels can change quickly and lightning risk is real in open high country.
More information: Visitor information, Visitor information, Prior Creek Trail #156 • Hike • New Mexico • All Triplogs