Little Apache Loop

The Little Apache Loop is one of several trails located in the higher elevation camping areas immediately outside of Cloudcroft.

At 3.2 miles, this high elevation wooded trail accommodates hikers, bicyclists and equestrians during most of the year, while being a marked cross country ski track during winter conditions. The trail begins from the parking area just inside the Lincoln National Forest Campgrounds sign, heading off down dirt single track from the back of the large overflow parking lot. Following blue blazes, the path heads beneath the scattered daylight falling through the canopy of dense conifer trees.

Following a very mellow uphill grade for just over a mile, the path then begins down a steeper descent. Cross country ski signs note the change from an easy path to moderately difficult path from this point. The trail eventually bottoms out beside a private rock quarry, from which point it begins to climb a series of grassy meadows before ultimately reaching the paved campground road, which can be followed back to the trailhead.

The Little Apache Loop, along with other trails in the Lincoln National Forest, make for a less crowded alternative to the trails located in the town of Cloudcroft. This hike offers visitors the chance to escape what can feel like a wave of tourist traffic and offer an opportunity to experience the wildness and desolation of the Sacramento Mountains.

Amenities tend to be well maintained during the summer camping season, though during the winter the trailhead reverts to only a few parking spaces with amenities closed up.

With a trailhead at nearly 9000' in elevation, hikers here should prepare for more briskly cool conditions than Cloudcroft or lower elevations.