This “lollipop” loop is a favorite warm weather hike since it’s high elevation, close to town, and generally well-forested. The trail begins at the Signal Peak trailhead. From the parking lot, cross the cattle guard and head uphill to your left. The trail climbs steeply through a fine pondo. In .6 miles, the Tadpole Ridge Trail splits off to the left. The forest opens up to some fine views of the Mogollon Range. Continue downhill through the forest , and at mile 1.4, cross NM 15 and look for pick up a faint trail on the other side of the road. This trail drops into a very lush canyon along an unnamed creek that feeds into Jaybird Canyon. The area was singed by the Trout Fire of 2025, but remains a really lovely and dense forest on the north slolpe of the Pinos Altos Range. Enjoy the views as you climb out of the canyon. At mile 2.3, pick up an old forest road and follow it until you reach Meadow Creek Road at 2.7 miles. Turn right on Meadow Creek Road, cross NM 15 and take a short spur trail uphill where you can retrace your steps back to the parking lot.
Distance: 4.12 miles
Ascent: 698′
Trailhead Elevation: 7328′
Directions: From downtown Silver City, take 180 east for about 1.5 miles. Turn left on NM 15. Follow NM 15 for 14.4 miles and park on the left. The trail is past the cattle guard on the west side of NM 15.
