Weekend Escape to Silver City, New Mexico

Courtesy of Silver City, NM

When Marisol Reyes pulled into Silver City, New Mexico just after sunrise on a crisp fall Saturday, she felt like she’d arrived at one of the West’s best-kept secrets.

“The air up here smells like pine and possibility."

With a population of around 10,000 and perched at about 5,919 feet elevation, Silver City serves as a vibrant gateway to the wild landscapes of the Gila National Forest and surrounding wilderness. Marisol’s plan was simple: hike, explore, breathe.

Her first stop was the nearby Boston Hill Trail System where she followed the loop trail through ponderosa pines, juniper and rocks softened by morning light. “I felt like I was the only person in the world,” she said. The area is noted for its accessible yet scenic hikes.

Later that day she drove a short distance to Lake Roberts—a peaceful reservoir nestled above Silver City. A few anglers cast their lines into the clear water while kayaks drifted lazily. Fishing and day-use recreation at Lake Roberts are among the draws of the region.

Saturday evening Marisol wandered downtown Silver City’s historic district, with its brick sidewalks, art galleries and casual eateries serving New Mexico’s signature green chile. “It’s charming without being polished,."

On Sunday morning she met up with a guide and headed into the Gila region for a half-day excursion to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, where ancient cliff-dweller ruins peek out from the rock face.

“Standing in those rooms you realize people were living here a thousand years ago, right in the rocks.”

Cliff Dwellings, Courtesy of Silver City, NM

The monument lies a scenic drive from Silver City and offers unique wilderness walking opportunities.

Back in town by afternoon, she capped off the weekend with a ride along the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway—a scenic drive north-east from Silver City that threads through ridges and valleys of the region. “I discovered corners of New Mexico I didn’t know existed,” she reflected.

 “Silver City gave me wide skies, quiet trails and a town that breathes outdoor life.”

As she packed her car to leave Sunday evening, Marisol dug out her journal and wrote: “Silver City gave me wide skies, quiet trails and a town that breathes outdoor life.” With its mountain biking, hiking trails, fly-fishing streams, and artistic downtown, Silver City stands apart as a destination for someone who truly wants to *get outside*.

Courtesy of Silver City, NM

“I’ll be back,” Marisol said. "And for anyone seeking fresh air, rugged terrain and a community that celebrates adventure, Silver City just might be the weekend hideaway you’ve been looking for. "

Find out more about Silver City’s trails, art scene and outdoor adventures at VisitSilverCity.org