OverviewSilver Peak is located in the Chiricahua Mountains. This somewhat unknown mountain towers over the eastern slopes of the Chiricahuas in the southeast corner of the state. The magnificent Cave Creek Canyon, a hidden gem known for its impressive rock formations, is located at the base of Silver Peak. This canyon is sometimes referred to as the “Yosemite of the Southwest”. Silver Peak is located in the Coronado National Forest.
Silver Peak lives a quiet existence in the shadow of its higher and more famous neighbor, the ultra-prominent Chiricahua Peak. It is difficult to identify Silver Peak from a distance as it seems to blend in with the surrounding mountains. It’s not until you get up close that Silver Peak begins to reveal its distinct identity. Silver Peak is often confused with the nearby Portal Peak. Silver Peak used to have a fire lookout atop its summit, but it burned down in 1992 and has not been rebuilt. Silver Peak is one of only two mountains in the Chiricahuas that exceed the 2,000’ prominence threshold, and is just big enough to make an appearance on the Arizona Prominence Map.
Getting ThereFrom Road Forks on Interstate 10 west of Lordsburg, take US Highway 80 south for about 28 miles. Turn right on Portal Road, and drive seven miles to Portal. Continue west another mile or so on Forest Road 42 to the Cave Creek Visitor Information Center. The Silver Peak trailhead is located at a pullout about a ½-mile past the visitor center. The road is paved all the way. The trailhead elevation here is 4,960’.
Mountain ConditionsContact the Coronado National Forest, Douglas Ranger District. Their number is 520-364-3468.
Topo Map: Portal.
Forest Map: Coronado National Forest (Chiricahua, Peloncillo, and Dragoon Mountain Ranges)
CampingThere are several small Forest Service campgrounds in Cave Creek Canyon.
External LinksCave Creek Canyon
Silver Peak Trail
Arizona Prominence Map
Southwest Research Station Images
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