Silver City is a charming town in southwestern New Mexico known for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant art scene. It’s also at least 10 degrees cooler there, making this the perfect getaway trip. Here's a detailed plan for your visit from Tucson this summer, or really any time of year!
Getting There:
The drive east from Tucson to Silver City takes about three and a half hours. You can take the I-10 East toward Deming, then take exit 82 towards NM-90 south and follow the signs to Silver City.
For those of you considering a trek out to the epic Gila Cliff Dwellings, be sure to note that the distance might look smaller on a map than it really is. The 44-mile highway can take two hours to navigate with traffic. Despite the additional mileage, it’s a scenic setting and definitely worth the time it takes to get there.
History
The area has a rich and interesting history. Check out some key historical facts about the city:
● Silver City was founded in 1870, shortly after the discovery of silver in the nearby mountains.
● The city quickly became a hub for mining and commerce, and by the late 1800s, it was one of the largest cities in New Mexico.
● In 1893, the Panic of 1893 caused a nationwide economic depression, which had a significant impact on the mining industry in Silver City. Many mines closed and the population of the city declined.
● In the early 1900s, the city began to diversify its economy, focusing on agriculture and ranching in addition to mining.
● Today, Silver City is known for its vibrant arts community, outdoor recreation opportunities, and historic downtown.
Places to Stay:
There are several great places to stay in and around Silver City, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are a few options:
● Murray Hotel: Located in the heart of downtown Silver City, the Murray Hotel is a historic boutique hotel that offers comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
● Bear Mountain Lodge: For a more secluded experience, consider staying at the high-end Bear Mountain Lodge. They have a lovely cafe (Azul) that serves breakfast and the occasional weekend meal. Be sure to check out the hours upon arrival.
● Silver City RV Park: If you're traveling in an RV, the Silver City RV Park offers full hookups, laundry facilities and a convenient location near downtown Silver City.
Things to Do:
There's plenty to see and do in Silver City, whether you're interested in outdoor activities, art and culture, or history. Browse some ideas below:
● Gila National Forest: With over three million acres of wilderness, the Gila National Forest offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
● Silver City Museum: Learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage at the Silver City Museum, which features exhibits on mining, ranching, and the arts.
● Art Galleries: Silver City is home to a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries showcasing the work of local artists. Be sure to check out the Seedboat Gallery, Light Art Space, and Leyba & Ingalls Arts.
● Farmers Market: If you're in town on a Saturday during the warmer months, stop by the Silver City Farmers Market to sample fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts from local vendors.
● The Makers Market runs on Saturdays all year downtown with artists, makers, and growers from all over the region.
● Ghost Towns: There are several ghost towns near Silver City, including Shakespeare and Pinos Altos, that offer a glimpse into the region's mining history.
Hiking and Biking Options:
There are plenty of great trails for hiking and biking in and around Silver City. Here are a few of the best options:
- Boston Hill Trail System: Located in downtown Silver City, this trail system offers several miles of hiking and biking trails with stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
- Continental Divide Trail: Silver City is the first official Gateway Community to the famous Continental Divide Trail, which stretches over 3,000 miles from Canada to Mexico. There are several great access points to the trail in and around Silver City, including Emory Pass (more than an hour’s drive from Silver City) and the Gila Wilderness.
- Gila National Forest: The Gila National Forest is a vast wilderness area surrounding Silver City, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. The Little Walnut Trail, Signal Peak Trail, and Gomez Peak Trail are all popular options.
- Dragonfly Trail: This trail is a favorite among mountain bikers, with challenging terrain and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is located about 10 miles east of Silver City.
- Big Ditch Park: This park, located in downtown Silver City, offers a rough trail for casual walking along the Big Ditch, a historic irrigation canal.
Fishing Options:
There are several great fishing options in the Silver City area. Here are a few must-see spots:
- Lake Roberts: Located about 30 miles north of Silver City, Lake Roberts is a popular spot for fishing rainbow trout, bass, and catfish.
- Gila River: The Gila River is known for its excellent fly-fishing opportunities, with abundant populations of brown and rainbow trout.
- Bill Evans Lake: About an hour southwest of Silver City, Bill Evans Lake offers fishing for trout, catfish, and bass, as well as camping and boating.
Best Restaurants:
Silver City has a great food scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. Here are a few of the best restaurants to try:
- Little Toad Creek Brewery & Distillery is known for its craft beer and cocktails. Hungry? The brewery also serves up tasty pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and pizza.
- Jalisco Café is your one-stop shop for authentic Mexican cuisine. Sample from dishes such as chile rellenos, carne asada or tamales.
- The Corner Kitchen is an awesome elevated comfort food restaurant in downtown Silver City.
- The Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House is an awesome experience in Pinos Altos.
- And a new addition: Whisky Creek Zocalo, offering food, beverages, and a venue to host events.
Weather in the Fall Months:
Fall is a great time to visit Silver City, as the temperatures start to cool down. In September, the average high temperature is around 82°F (28°C), with lows around 49°F (9°C). October brings cooler temperatures, with highs around 72°F (22°C) and lows around 38°F (3°C). November is the coolest month of fall, with highs around 61°F (16°C) and lows around 26°F (-3°C). Be sure to bring layers and a jacket for the cooler temperatures in the evening.
A visit to Silver City from Tucson offers a great mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you're interested in hiking, art or just soaking up the local atmosphere, there's something for everyone to enjoy.