Courtney Mine Trail #132, NM

Note: Page stats reflect #132 one-way segment. The description below is 3.5mi / 550 ft / 810 aeg / 2 hrs.


This trail is hardly worth the effort, given the many great alternative hikes in the area.It accesses Karr Canyon too far down into the populated area, and it is a main route for ATV's and motorcycle riders. Yet, as a potential connecting traverse for mountain bike riders ascending (crazy!!) or descending the mountain, this route does provide a very reasonable alternative to the hyper steep trails that descend the ridges to the south. While those average 700-1000' per mile, Courtney Mine tends more towards 300-500 feet per mile.

You could connect with Karr Canyon road up on the Sunspot highway (adjacent to the Karr Canyon Rest area) or off of the Rim Trail (T105) just shy of the Alamo Peak Road... and ride Karr Canyon down to Courtney Mine Trail, and make the much easier traverse over to West Side Road. From there, head south to descend T119 (The "A" trail) or head north, cross Hiway 82 to connect with Fresnal Canyon Road to loop around through La Luz and into Alamogordo. Fresnal Canyon road has recently been paved, but it still has relatively no automobile traffic; it is a great alternative to the lower 8 miles of hiway 82 with it's narrow lanes and speeding traffic.

so... not a great hike, but a very reasonable Mountain biking alternative.

Additionally, you could use this to access the upper ridges running south over to Alamo Peak for some offtrail bushwhacking adventures.

The elevation guarantees snow, ice and possibly muddy trails in the winter season.

2012-01-24 imike