Overall Route Rating
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3.2 out of 5 Rider Rating 3.2
5 Reviews

US 180 Alpine, AZ - Deming, NM

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By MCR Contributor (1039 McR Points) on May 22, 2011

Rider Reviews

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Guest
May 30, 2013
180 was ok. But took 12 back west and that was a…
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J.C.Whitehead
July 17, 2016
Once you're up in the Gila, 180 is great.…
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Written Directions

This route begins in extreme eastern Arizona in a little town called Alpine, AZ at the intersection of US 191 (Coronado Scenic Byway) and US 180. You will travel Southeast through the Gila National Forest, the small towns of Pleasonton and Buckhorn, the large mining and college town of Silver City and culminate in Deming, NM at I-10.

Scenery

Climb out of the alpine meadows of Apline, AZ and travel through nearly all of the habitat zones available in New Mexico. As you descend through the pine forests you notice the gradual climb in temp and by the mid-point Buckhorn, you will need to start shedding some layers. Leaving Silver City, the road flattens out onto a high desert with tall grasses and few if any trees. Plenty places to pull over for photos and include the USFS Leopold picnic area. It is a nice area with an excellent description/map of the Gila Wilderness in the distance.

Drive Enjoyment

Frost heaves took their toll on the early portion of the road in New Mexico. Watch out for areas where the asphalt seems spread apart as your tires will give quite a jerk when they track into one. Otherwise, good roads with little or any debris in the road. The drive from the AZ/NM line begins with a few twisties and transitions into sweeping curves as you descend the mountain. Watch for critters, especially cattle on the wrong side of the fence.

Tourism Opportunities

Nothing to speak of until Buckhorn, which is limited. Silver City is the best bet for major needs, otherwise, pack it on the bike.
 

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Guest
May 30, 2013
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring
180 was ok. But took 12 back west and that was a mistake. Very boring ride across open desert.
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J.C.Whitehead
July 17, 2016
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Cruiser
Once you're up in the Gila, 180 is great. Between Deming and the town of Gila, not so much. Amazing scenery up north though.
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RedWing04
June 20, 2020
63 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Touring
Deming to the Gila is a leisurely ride, but things get better in the Gila. Scenic and fun
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