SUMMARY: 7.8k feet to 9.9k feet, 4.2 miles for Trail 25, 7.8k feet to 9.7k feet, 2.5 miles for 25A.
DESCRIPTION: Connects the Hop Canyon Road trailhead to North Baldy Trail #8 in two directions to make a 10 mile loop. The view from North Baldy crest makes this a rewarding day-hike for hikers up to the physical challenge, a real gem of the Magdalena Mountains.
Do not plan on finding reliable water sources along this route.
Hop Canyon Trail #25 is part of an alternate supply route on the Grand Enchantment Trail GET.
GETTING THERE: From US60, turn south on Kelly Road for two miles, make a slight turn onto Hop Canyon Road and go 4.4 miles to the signed trailhead on a parking area on the right side of the road. Both trails 25 and 25A leave from here in different directions, making a loop with a portion of North Baldy Trail.
CONDITIONS: As of September 2020, #25 is partially lopped, and the entire trail was cleared of blowdowns. Part of #25A is lopped, and most blowdowns were cleared. Gambels oak is plentiful, and growing into the trail in a few places, especially on 25A. The trails are fairly well used and easy to follow. UPDATE April 2021: #25 has only 5 blowdowns in 5 miles. The lack of recent fires in the Magdalenas limits the rate of new fallen trees across these trails. Expect a brushy trail on the lower reaches.
NMVFO has project(s) on this trail:
Water Canyon CG (Magdalena RD)
Several small teams tackled geographically dispersed trails that needed deadfall removal and brushing.