Smoky Creek Trail

Overview

Smoky Creek is a remote desert route that starts near Mule Ears Overlook and heads deep into the park’s backcountry. Expect classic Chihuahuan Desert scenery—sotol, lechuguilla, prickly pear—and long, wide-open views toward the Mule Ear Peaks, Trap Mountain, and rugged volcanic highlands. It’s a serious undertaking: roughly 18.3 miles one way for the main Smoky Creek section, often reached via the Mule Ears Trail and commonly linked into longer backcountry itineraries. At the eastern end, the corridor connects with the Dodson Trail, opening up multi-day options.

Trail Experience

This is one of the park’s lonelier corridors—perfect if you crave silence and big sky. The tread comes and goes, with faint sections through desert flats and wash bottoms; occasional cairns help, but you shouldn’t rely on them. You’ll walk dirt, gravel, and sandy washes, with mild undulations rather than big climbs. Navigation matters here: stay attentive in broad drainages and always confirm with a map or GPS.

Water, Springs, and History

Water is scarce to nonexistent along Smoky Creek. Mule Ears Spring is one of the few reliable sources nearby; treat all water. Around the spring you’ll find cottonwoods and a bit of shade plus remnants of early ranching—a small stone corral that hints at the area’s human history. Wildlife activity concentrates near water: watch for bird life, leopard frogs, and the occasional snake.

Is It For You?

If you’re after solitude, desert geology, and a true backcountry feel, this is a rewarding hike. If you want a short, straightforward day trail with dependable water and obvious tread, look elsewhere. The exposure and distance make this moderate-to-strenuous depending on your fitness, heat, and pack weight.

Best Time to Hike

Late fall through early spring offers mild daytime temps and cool nights—prime conditions for long miles with little shade. Summer heat is dangerous here; plan accordingly and avoid the hottest periods. Early starts pay off for light and temperature, and you’ll have the place largely to yourself anytime outside peak holidays.

Tips

• Carry more water than you think you need; aim for at least a gallon per person per day, more in warm weather.
• Bring a detailed map and GPS; don’t count on cairns to keep you on track.
• Backcountry permits are required if you plan to camp along the route; camps are primitive in washes and open flats.
• Watch your step around snakes, and never approach wildlife. Leave historic features as you find them.