US 180 Alpine, AZ - Deming, NM

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This route begins in extreme eastern Arizona in a little town called Alpine, AZ at the intersection of US 191 (Coronado Scenic Byway) and US 180. You will travel Southeast through the Gila National Forest, the small towns of Pleasonton and Buckhorn, the large mining and college town of Silver City and culminate in Deming, NM at I-10.

Climb out of the alpine meadows of Apline, AZ and travel through nearly all of the habitat zones available in New Mexico. As you descend through the pine forests you notice the gradual climb in temp and by the mid-point Buckhorn, you will need to start shedding some layers. Leaving Silver City, the road flattens out onto a high desert with tall grasses and few if any trees. Plenty places to pull over for photos and include the USFS Leopold picnic area. It is a nice area with an excellent description/map of the Gila Wilderness in the distance.

Frost heaves took their toll on the early portion of the road in New Mexico. Watch out for areas where the asphalt seems spread apart as your tires will give quite a jerk when they track into one. Otherwise, good roads with little or any debris in the road. The drive from the AZ/NM line begins with a few twisties and transitions into sweeping curves as you descend the mountain. Watch for critters, especially cattle on the wrong side of the fence.

Nothing to speak of until Buckhorn, which is limited. Silver City is the best bet for major needs, otherwise, pack it on the bike.

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