Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
346
by summer flash floods. It's best to inquire about trail conditions before you set out.
More than 50 trail heads provide roadside parking.
Some of the best hikes in the area are the Frisco Box, Pueblo Creek, Whitewater Baldy,
the Catwalk and Beyond, the Middle Fork/Little Bear Loop, and the Black Range Crest
Trail. The Gila National Forest contains several wilderness areas that are off-limits to
mountain bikes, including the Gila, Aldo Leopold, and the Blue Range Primitive Area.
However, cyclists can access quite a few trails. Some to look for are the Cleveland Mine
trail, Silver City Loop, Continental Divide, Signal Peak, Pinos Altos Loop, Fort Bayard
Historical Trails, and Forest Trail 100.
The Catwalk National Recreation Trail
(
&
575/539-2481
), 68 miles north of
Silver City on US 180, then 5 miles east of Glenwood via NM 174, is a great break after
a long drive. Kids are especially thrilled with this hike. It follows the route of a pipeline
built in 1897 to carry water to the now-defunct town of Graham and its electric genera-
tor. About a quarter-mile above the parking area is the beginning of a striking 250-foot
metal causeway clinging to the sides of the boulder-choked Whitewater Canyon, which,
in spots, is 20 feet wide and 250 feet deep. Along the way, you'll find water pouring
through caves and waterfalls spitting off the cliff side. Farther up the canyon, a suspen-
sion bridge spans the chasm. Picnic facilities are near the parking area. There's a $3 fee
per car.
11
