This 213-mile loop from Bisbee is an epic day-trip through some of the most remote and historic terrain in the Southwest, tracing the paths of the Chiricahua Apache.
Leaving Bisbee on US 80, you’ll head east to Douglas (top off your gas here!) before turning onto East 15th Street, which becomes the Geronimo Trail (Forest Road 63). This is a rugged, graded dirt road that parallels the Mexico border wall before angling northeast into the Peloncillo Mountains. You’ll pass the San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge and the historic Slaughter Ranch. The road gains elevation as it enters the Coronado National Forest, transitioning from desert scrub into woodland trees and striking rock formations.
After crossing the state line into New Mexico near Clanton Draw, the trail eventually connects to NM-338, leading you north into the vast Animas Valley and the small town of Animas with fuel available. For a mid-ride reward, take the paved detour to the Portal Peak Lodge Store & Cafe in Arizona. As of January 2026, the cafe is a favorite for its “phenomenal” green chile burritos and friendly, communal atmosphere.
From Portal, head south on NM-80/AZ-80. You’ll pass the Geronimo Surrender Monument, a lonely roadside landmark marking the area where the legendary leader finally laid down his arms in 1886. Re-enter Douglas for a final fuel stop if needed before the scenic 25-mile paved climb back into the Mule Mountains to finish your loop in Bisbee.
Details
- Location: Starts and ends at The Jonquil Motel in Bisbee, Arizona
- Distance: 213 mile loop
- Gas: Bisbee, Douglas, Animas (NM)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Road Surface: paved, gravel
- Time: full-day
- Camping: Coronado National Forest
- Connects to: High Lonesome
Approximate Mileage
- Start – Circle K Bisbee – 0 miles
- Gas – Douglas – 25 miles
- Gadsden Hotel – 25 miles
- Start dirt – 32 miles
- Slaughter Ranch – 41 miles
- Clanton Draw – 63 miles
- End dirt – 85 miles
- Gas – Animus, NM – 104 miles
- Sky Islands Grill – 121 miles
- Portal Cafe – 129 miles
- Geronimo Surrender Monument – 149 miles
- Gas – Douglas – 188 miles
- End – Circle K Bisbee – 213 miles
