Mount Riley Wilderness

The 8,382-acre Mount Riley Wilderness is located about 30 miles southwest of Las Cruces. Elevations on the property vary from about 4,200 feet to about 6,000 feet. At the heart of the wilderness are three cinder cones that rise about 1,500 feet above the surrounding desert floor. Vegetation is a mix of desert grasses and shrubs. There are no maintained trails on the property but those who hike to the summit get to enjoy a full, 360° view of the surrounding desert countryside.

To get there: About 8 miles south of Anthony, NM get off the I-10 at the Texas state line and go west on TX 178/Artcraft Road. Go west about 9 miles to NM 9/Columbus Road. Turn right onto NM 9 and go 24 miles to County Road 005. Turn right and go north to County Road 007 (about 4.5 miles). From that intersection CR 007 travels northeast, forming the eastern boundary of the wilderness area for about 6 miles. These are mostly dirt roads and require suitable clearance. When wet they may be impassable, even in 4WD.

The Potrillo Mountains Wilderness is across the road on the northwest boundary, the East Potrillo Mountains Wilderness is across the road on the southeast boundary. Mount Riley Wilderness is wholly contained within the Potrillo Mountains unit of Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.