Old West Trails 2009-10

T R A I L S

www.oldwestcountry.com/familyfun Affordable vacations. See page 1

Old West T R A I L S

THE COMMUNITIES

Unique shopping experiences, the arts and fascinating museums are the anchors for Old West Country communities and the rapidly growing phenomenon of adventure tourism begins at the edge of every town.

DOÑA ANA COUNTY

HIDALGO COUNTY

An engaging historic plaza, a cavalry fort and miles of hiking trails along the river and into the jagged mountains balance the area’s rapid growth.

OWT6 LAS CRUCES & MESILLA

Old West ghost towns represent the area’s mining, stagecoach and steam locomotive eras, and remote birding opportunities are present.

OWT28 LORDSBURG

SIERRA COUNTY The home of New Mexico’s premier water sports destination is also an established center for natural hot mineral baths and healing arts, and the home of Spaceport America.

OWT8 TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES OWT10 CITY OF ELEPHANT BUTTE

SOCORRO COUNTY The spires of Spanish missions and headquarters for deep space eavesdropping compete for attention with incredible wildlife refuges.

OWT12 SOCORRO OWT15 MAGDALENA

CATRON COUNTY Lakes, streams, parts of three national forests, a picturesque ghost town and pack trip opportunities highlight this sparsely populated mountain region.

OWT16 RESERVE, GLENWOOD, DATIL & QUEMADO

GRANT COUNTY Historic mining communities on the edge of vast tracks of forest and wilderness have become havens for both outdoor enthusiasts and the arts.

OWT18 SILVER CITY OWT23 BAYARD & HURLEY OWT24 TRAIL OF THE MOUNTAIN SPIRITS NAT’L. SCENIC BYWAY OWT26 MIMBRES VALLEY The massive metal and glass sculpture at the entrance to El Camino Real International Heritage Center, midway between Truth or Consequences and Socorro, is called Camino de Sueños and is the work of sculptor Greg Reiche, formerly of Socorro.

LUNA COUNTY Hiking, rockhounding and international shopping combine with wine, fast ducks, friendly people and plenty of sunshine.

OWT30 DEMING

OWT7 OWT9 OWT32 OWT33

Old West Country P.O. Box 884 • Silver City, NM 88062 1-800-290-8330 Website: www.oldwestcountry.com e-mail: info@oldwestcountry.com Gina Kelley President, Truth or Consequences Roger McKasson Vice President, Rodeo Lola Polley Secretary/Treasurer, Silver City Keith LeMay Executive Director, Silver City

Serving the communities of: Deming 800 East Pine • Deming, NM 88031 1-800-848-4955 www.demingchamber.com e-mail: info@demingchamber.com

FEATURES OWT1 OWT2 OWT4 OWT5

Published exclusively for Old West Country as a supplement to New Mexico Traveler

Affordable Vacations Old West Country Regional Attractions Relics & Realism. Forts, Ghost Towns and Famous Buildings.

Great Outdoors Historic Mining Towns Birding Locations Old West Country Map

Las Cruces 211 N. Water Street Las Cruces, NM 88001 1-800-FIESTAS • 575-541-2444 www.lascrucescvb.org e-mail: cvb@lascrucescvb.org

Lordsburg 117 East 2nd Street • Lordsburg, NM 88045 575-542-9864 www.GreaterHidalgoAreaCoC.com

Reserve P.O. Box 415 • Reserve, NM 87830 575-533-6116 www.catroncounty.org e-mail: chambersec@catroncounty.org

OUR COVER

The Rio Grande Theatre in Las Cruces is part of the continuing downtown revitalization effort. Built in 1926 as a movie theater, it received a $2.2 million makeover between 1997 and 2005 and reopened as a 422-seat performing arts center. It is managed by the Dona Ana Arts Council. Photo by Joe Burgess.

Old West Trails is published annually by Zia Publishing Corp. 116 McKinney Road, P.O. Box 1248, Silver City, NM 88062, 575-388-4444, info@ziapublishing.com, www.ziapublishing.com. President & Managing Director, Terri Menges. Vice President, Joseph Burgess. Staff Accountant, Arlyn Cooley.

Designers, Debra Sutton, Terri Menges. Contributing Writers, Joseph Burgess, Brett Ferneau.

Photography, Joseph Burgess, except where noted. Advertising Sales, Brett Ferneau, LeAnne Knudsen, Tamra Manning, Dawn Redpath. Distribution, Keith LeMay.

Old West Trails is a supplement to New Mexico Traveler and is manufactured and printed in the United States of America. ©Zia Publishing Corp., 2009. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission of the publisher is prohibited. All submissions of editorial or photography are only accepted without risk to the publisher for loss or damage. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy in the information provided. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, changes or omissions.

Silver City 201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061 1-800-548-9378 www.silvercity.org e-mail: info@silvercity.org

Socorro P.O. Box Drawer K • Socorro, NM 87801 575-835-8927 www.socorronm.gov e-mail: tourism@socorronm.gov

Magdalena P.O. Box 281 • Magdalena, NM 87825-0281 Voice 866-854-3217 www.magdalena-nm.com e-mail: info@magdalena-nm.com

Truth or Consequences 400 W. 4th Avenue Truth or Consequences, NM 87901 575-740-3902 www.sierracountynewmexico.info sierracountytourism@gmail.com

Elephant Butte P.O. Box 1355 Elephant Butte, NM 87935 (575) 744-4708

www.elephantbuttechamberofcommerce.com info@elephantbuttechamberofcommerce.com

Southwest Region 2 Roger McKasson Chair, Rodeo Andres Giron Vice Chair, Reserve Susan LaFont Secy/Treas, Elephant Butte Region Members: Edward Khanbabian Deming Keith LeMay Silver City Mike Trumbull Las Cruces

1. Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Mon. $3/person

Vaca ions

2. Old Mesilla. Free

AFFORDABLE

Did you know that a family of four (with children 8 and 16) can visit our top 10 attractions in Old West Country for as little as $48. A couple for just $37.

In a series of nationwide surveys, Old West Country in southwest New Mexico, had consistently low vacation dollars spent in this region. The latest study in December 2005 showed the average California couple spent $2227 for their 4-6 night vacation in Old West Country and the average Arizona couple spent $697. The bargain vacation!

We decided to contact our attractions and just see what a family of four could buy in our 120 attractions for about $20.00. The admissions to all of our top 10 attractions was $48.00 for the family of 4, $37.00 for a couple.

These attractions included the Gila Cliff Dwellings, Old Mesilla, Elephant Butte Lake, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, City of Rocks State Park, Very Large Array Radio Telescope, The Catwalk, New Mexico Farm and Ranch Museum, Deming Luna Mimbres Museum and Shakespeare Ghost Town. All for $48.

For $141.00 you’ve covered admission to every one of our 120 popular attractions, less than $1.20 per family at each attraction! $119.00 for a couple (99 cents per attraction)! No matter where you go in Old West Country the total cost for each of the seven county-area's admission varies from $3.00 to $47.00. Talk about affordable vacations!

For details on all 120 Old West Country attractions and more information, check out www.oldwestcountry.com/familyfun.

$20 Family Fun for 4 at Old West’s Top Attractions

Top 10 Attractions

Family 2 of 4 Adults

1 Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Mon.

$3

ages 18+. Hot Springs: Gila $3/person, $4/p w/camping, $3 $3/person Wildwood Hot Springs $5/person and $10/p w/camping

2 Old Mesilla

$0

$0

3 Elephant Butte Lake State Park

$5

$5 day use, annual $40 all parks; add $18 overnight camping, $5 Fees: annual $180-$225 all parks

4 Bosque del Apache Refuge

$3

$3 $3 per car load

5 City of Rocks State Park

$5

$5 Fees: $5 day use, annual $40 all parks; add $18 overnight camping,

6 Very Large Array Telescopes

$0

$0

7 The Catwalk Recreation Trail

$3

$3 $3 p/car load for day use parking; no camping

8 NM Farm & Ranch Museum 9 Deming Luna Mimbres Museum 10 Shakespeare Ghost Town TOTAL

annual $180-$225 all parks

$14 $10 $0 $15

$0 Donations $8 Tours available; re-enactments

3. Elephant Butte Lake 4. Bosque del Apache Refuge. $3/car State Park. $5/car

5. City of Rocks State Park. $5/car

6. Very Large Array Telescopes. Free

7. The Catwalk Rec. Trail. $3/car

8. NM Farm & Ranch Museum. $5/$2 child

9. Deming Luna Mimbres Museum.

Donations

10. Shakespeare Ghost Town. $4/$3 child

Truth or Consequences Las Cruces

OLD WEST y Countr

Silver City

SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO

Lordsburg Deming Reserve

OLD WEST COUNTRY Southwest Region 2

Socorro

P.O. Box 884 Silver City, NM 88062

1-800-290-8330 www.oldwestcountry.com e-mail: info@oldwestcountry.com

$48 $37 OLD WEST COUNTRY AFFORDABLE VACATIONS

OW1

Ol

Wes

OW2

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

Coun

DEMING, LAS CRUCES, LORDSBURG, SILVER CITY, SOCORRO, TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, CATRON COUNTY

&

Southwest New Mexico combines the outdoor excitement and historical intrigue of 32 parks, monuments and sites with, well, everyday life. From the ancient prehistoric peoples who left behind a wealth of artistic creations to Spaceport America, Old West Country will challenge you, delight you, entertain you and provide you a thousand reasons to return.

Early Spanish exploration efforts and supply trails opened the region to the early opposite: Plant Mexican and Anglo families who established today’s farming, ranching and mining life, birds, trails, a restored wetland communities. Apache skirmishes, confederate battles, famous outlaw incidents and and a new educacenter make hangings in the name of justice set the stage for a region that continues to push the tional Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park envelope in technology, business and environmental awareness. near Las Cruces a The rugged canyons of the nation’s first designated wilderness area and New great place to exercise muscles Mexico’s largest and most exciting water sports facilities are all found in Old West and minds.

Country. National Scenic Byways and trails through millions of acres of both national forest and BLM properties provide the opportunities to challenge Mother Nature and the elements, regardless of your physical capabilities.

Forts, plazas, missions, visitor centers, centers for the arts and specialty shops are scattered throughout Southwest New Mexico and will welcome you into a culture that truly makes you feel like family. Welcome to America’s Old West.

OLD WEST COUNTRY

OW3

BOSQUE DEL APACHE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

REGIONAL

Attractions

Year-round birding. Visitor center, auto tour and hiking. 16 miles south of Socorro. 575-838-2120.

THE CATWALK RECREATION TRAIL

Walkways suspended from narrow canyon walls begin a trail that works its way into the Gila Wilderness. The trailhead and picnic grounds beneath large cottonwood and sycamore trees are five miles east of US180 at Glenwood. 575-538-2801.

CITY OF ROCKS STATE PARK

A city of giant monoliths protruding unexpectedly from the desert floor is located halfway between Silver City and Deming, 5 miles east of US180. The park has a visitor center, hiking trails, and a night sky observatory.

Call for the observatory schedule. 575-536-2800.

ELEPHANT BUTTE LAKE STATE PARK New Mexico’s largest lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Landlovers can find hiking trails, birding, and year-round events. History buffs will love the views of the 1916 dam and historic district at Dam Site Recreation Area. 575-744-5421.

FORT SELDEN An 1800s cavalry fort that was utilized by the Buffalo Soldiers. A year-round visitor center and living history demonstrations on weekends May through September.

Nineteenth century military encampments second Saturdays monthly year-round. 575-526-8911

GILA CLIFF DWELLINGS NAT’L MONUMENT Follow the “Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway” north from Silver City along NM15 or NM35 to the national monument visitor center. Printed matter and a movie provide information about the 13th century inhabitants of this pristine area. The Cliff Dwellings are accessible by a short, well-maintained trail. 575-536-9344.

NM FARM & RANCH HERITAGE MUSEUM A large and intriguing display of farm and ranch implements from the early Anasazi to modern times. See live milking demonstrations and special presentations.

575-522-4100.

OLD MESILLA A picturesque and historic Mexican/Old West plaza is surrounded by a stately church and 1800s buildings filled with fabulous shopping and dining opportunities.

Additional shopping plazas with a charm all their own are continuing to expand along Avenida de Mesilla.

575-524-3262

The stunning geology of Southwest New Mexico presents not only a wide gamut of scenic vistas, but also the elements for an intriguing array of human land use. Craggy peaks thrusting up from the historic Rio Grande Valley and the high Plains of San Agustin, home of the incredible Very Large Array Radio Telescopes, are among the Old West treasures offered residents and visitors alike.

Parasailing on New Mexico’s largest lake or photographing elk grazing on a pristine Alpine meadow are merely the enticements to a land of continuous adventure.

Early people of the region lived in pit houses and cliff dwellings that can be experienced at the Gila Cliff Dwellings, a national monument surrounded on three sides by the country’s first designated wilderness. The unique pottery of the nearby Mimbres culture can be witnessed in the museums of Silver City, Deming, Las Cruces and Truth or Consequences. Spanish entry into the area is chronicled at the Camino Real International Heritage Center between Socorro and Truth or Consequences. Wild West episodes still unfold in mining and railroad ghost towns, plazas and a collection of forts scattered across the entire area.

The monoliths at City of Rocks State Park stand proud while the staggering Santa Rita open pit copper mine scratches its way down into the earth’s crust. Vast national forests blanket much of the region, skirted on the east and south by interstate highways paralleling the strategic El Camino Real and Butterfield Trails.

A national recreation trail at The Catwalk and a park specifically for rock hounds near Deming contribute to the endless opportunities of Old West Country.

Make any Old West highway your destination byway.

THE RIO GRANDE New Mexico’s lifeline flows through the Old West communities of Socorro, T or C and Las Cruces. It contributed water and food for early traders along El Camino Real and now supports industry, agriculture, recreation and individual needs for New Mexico’s central corridor. Visit the El Camino Real International Heritage Center off I-25 at exit 115.

ROCKHOUND STATE PARK Rock specimens scattered across the slopes of the Florida (Flor-eeda) Mountains simply offer a great excuse to explore the area. Rockhounds meet regularly in the area southeast of Deming for demonstrations, sales and trading. 575-546-6782.

THE CIBOLA NATIONAL FOREST Magdalena Dist. made up of the largest collection of historic ranchlands in New Mexico. 575-854-2281.

THE PLAINS OF SAN AGUSTIN The largest and highest grassland in North America, and watch for grazing antelope. 866-854-3217.

VETERANS MEMORIAL A permanent Vietnam Memorial Wall has been erected in Truth or Consequences to honor those who gave their lives for their country. 575-894-6600.

VERY LARGE ARRAY RADIO TELESCOPE Twenty-seven dish-shaped antennas are spread across three 13-mile tracks, one of which crosses US60 between Socorro and Reserve. A visitor center explains the mission of the project sponsored by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. 575-388-8201.

OW4

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

Rea ism RELICS

&

Old West Country is indeed the authentic Old West, the real thing. Visitors discover that historic sites in Southwest New Mexico are places where the past can be seen, explored, touched and, with a little imagination, relived.

The walls of old forts stand as sentinels to the process of change in the Southwest. Headframes from the era of underground mining still dot the foothills from Truth or Consequences to Silver City. below: The Knights of Pythias Hall is Buildings still stand that were inhabitone of the few surviving two-story ed by Old West bad boys like Billy the commercial build- Kid and the Clantons. Mining and ings of the boom years in Socorro. railroad ghost towns throughout the Note the cast-iron elements of the area offer the unique and almost eerie facade. As you drive feeling of meeting up with the spirit of down California Street, you will a wronged gunfighter or dance hall quickly recognize girl. Even the dwellings of cultures the Owl Cigar advertisement. that predated the arrival of the Spanish colonizers by centuries have been preserved. The wide swaths of trails used for the movement of Spanish and Mexican supplies between Mexico City and Santa Fe as well as the westward movement of American wagon trains can still be seen across desert landscapes.

The publishers of Old West Trails encourage visitors to research specific sites and then enjoy an authentic adventure back across time. Obtaining directions, road conditions and other information locally is advised.

Verify the property status of the area you wish to visit and always respect the rights of private property owners.

Forts

DOÑA ANA COUNTY

Fort Selden. A State Monument.

GRANT COUNTY Fort Bayard. On the National Register of Historic Places.

Santa Rita del Cobre Fort. A replica of Fort Webster.

LUNA COUNTY Fort Cummings Ruins.

Maintained by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

SOCORRO COUNTY Fort Craig. A BLM Special Management area on the National Register of Historic Places.

Ghost Towns CATRON COUNTY Clairmont.

Mogollon. Lightly populated.

DOÑA ANA COUNTY Dripping Springs.

GRANT COUNTY Georgetown.

HIDALGO COUNTY Shakespeare. 575-542-9034 Steins. May be closed, call 575-542-9864 or 575-542-8149

SIERRA COUNTY Chloride. Population 10.

Cuchillo.

Hillsboro. Lightly populated.

Kingston. Lightly populated.

Lake Valley. Operated by BLM. Winston. Lightly populated.

SOCORRO COUNTY Kelly. Obtain visitor’s pass at the rock shop.

San Antonio. The Hilton section is south of the present town.

Historic Buildings DOÑA ANA COUNTY San Albino Church.

GRANT COUNTY Silver City Museum.

LUNA COUNTY

this page: New Mexico’s largest water sport attraction is Elephant Butte Lake on the Rio Grande. above, from top: Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Monument, City of Rocks State Park, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Ref-uge, Fort Selden, The Catwalk Recreation Trail, Shakespeare Ghost Town.

Custom House.

Luna County Courthouse.

On the National Register of Historic Places.

SIERRA COUNTY The Pioneer Store. On the State List of Historic Buildings.

SOCORRO COUNTY Old San Miguel Mission.

The Capitol Bar. OLD WEST COUNTRY

OW5

LAS CRUCES DONA ANA

& MESILLA

COUNTY

L

as Cruces, one of the nation’s top communities for business and retirement, continues to defy the nation’s economic woes, due in part to increased enrollment at New Mexico State University and rapid growth at both White Sands Missile Range and Fort Bliss Army Base. Construction is underway for Spaceport America, with vertical launches planned for mid-2009, and alternative energy-related industry will soon be in operation.

For the traveler and the potential retiree, a this page: Continuing Main Street renovations host of opportunities includes numerous historic in downtown Las Cruces have included sites, museums, galleries, a nature park and a the conversion of the Rio Grande Theatre restored downtown main street area. Unfolding into a performing arts venue. opposite: across the fertile Mesilla Valley for the past cenSunrise at the Mesilla tury, New Mexico’s City of the Crosses now Valley Bosque reveals cattails along a claims four excellent golf courses with another restored wetland, a haven for birds and on the way. A paved bicycle and walking path other critters. stretches for miles along the river and ends at the new Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park. Scenic hiking trails are maintained on both sides of the rugged Organ Mountains.

Cavalry forts, ghost towns, lakes and national monuments are located in the immediate vicinity. History buffs will enjoy Fort Selden State Monument and visitor center just north of town, keeping the lingering spirits of this 1800s cavalry fort active. Adjacent campsites are available at Leasburg Dam State Park. And with the El Paso/Juarez metroplex, host to outstanding shopping, gambling and dining experiences, located just 40 miles down river, Las Cruces is truly the hub for whatever your heart desires.

The shining star of the valley, Old Mesilla, offers an escape from daily stress to a real-life Old West setting. With a traditional plaza surrounded by Spanish territorial architecture and the towers of San Albino Basilica, the village provides excellent dining and one-of-akind shops and galleries. Originally serving El Camino Real travelers, Mesilla became the regional headquarters for the Butterfield Overland Mail and Stage Line, the site for the signing of the Gadsden Purchase and a post for Confederate Troops. The saga of Billy the Kid includes Mesilla, where he escaped a scheduled hanging in 1881.

ATTRACTIONS Branigan Cultural Center & Art Museum. History exhibits, art & culture.

500 N. Water St. 575-541-2155. www.las-cruces.org/museums Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park.

Geological formations, desert flora, hiking trail and archaeology.

575-524-3334.www.cdnp.org Farmers & Crafts Market. Every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 am-12 noon. Local produce and crafts. Downtown Mall. 575-528-3276

OW6

DONA ANA COUNTY EVENTS Apr 16-19 Annual Border Book Festival. 575-523-3988 www.borderbookfestival.org May 2-3 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta in Mesilla. www.oldmesilla.org 575-524-3262 May 23-25 So. New Mexico Wine Festival. www.nmwine.com 575-522-1232 Sep 5-6 Hatch Chile Festival. 575-267-5050 www.hatchchilefest.com Sep 12-13 Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiesta in Mesilla. www.vivamesilla.org 575-524-3262 Sep 25-27 The Whole Enchilada Fiesta. www.enchiladafiesta.com 575-526-1938 Sep 30Southern New Mexico State Fair Oct 4 and Rodeo www.snmstatefair.com 575-524-8602 Oct 31Dia de los Muertos at the Plaza Nov 2 www.oldmesilla.org 575-647-2369 Nov 7-8 Annual Renaissance Arts Faire.

575-523-6403 www.daarts.org Nov 13-15 International Mariachi Conference & Concert. 575-525-1735 www.lascrucesmariachi.org Dec 24 Christmas Carols & Luminarias on the Plaza in Mesilla. www.oldmesilla.org 575-524-3262

LOCATION Fort Selden. An 1800s cavalry fort that was utilized by the Buffalo Soldiers.

Visitor center and living history demonstrations. 575-526-8911 Leasburg Dam State Park. Fishing, campsites and swimming. 19 miles northwest of Las Cruces. 575-524-4068 Mesilla Mercado. Local produce & crafts. Every Thursday & Sunday on Mesilla Plaza. 575-524-3262 New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. 3000 years of New Mexico

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

agricultural history. 4100 Dripping Springs Rd.575-522-4100 www.frhm.org Stahmann Farms Country Store.

Candy and crafts made with local pecans. 7 miles south of Las Cruces.

1-800-654-6887. www.stahmanns.com San Albino Church. Mission church built 1907. Old Mesilla Plaza.

575-526-9349 St. Clair Winery. A variety of local wine. 1800 Avenida de Mesilla.

575-524-0390.

Las Cruces and Old Mesilla straddle the Rio Grande at the junction of I-10 and I-25, 46 miles north of El Paso.

TOUR ROUTE

Mesilla borders Las Cruces on the southwest side of I-10. Travel east on I-10 and exit north on I-25 for 75 miles to Truth or Consequences.

MORE INFORMATION

Las Cruces Convention and Visitors Bureau 800-343-7827 or 575-541-2444 www.lascrucescvb.org

Ou oors

BIRDING

THE GREAT

The diverse opportunities for creating awesome outdoor adventures in Old West Country will wrangle your imagination. Battling a trophy striped bass on New Mexico’s largest warm-water lake or a feisty rainbow trout in a cold mountain stream will certainly enhance your vision of the Desert Southwest. Herds of grazing elk and clouds of migrating waterfowl can alter the horizon and power up your production of adrenaline. Hiking trails and biking trails traverse the entire region.

Rock climbers and mountain cyclists are drawn by rugged terrain, sparse populations and a near-perfect climate. Guides are ready to provide wilderness horseback trips for riders of all experience levels. Those who prefer touring by car can enjoy the old mining towns and mountain vistas of the area’s scenic byways.

Old West Country offers abundant opportunities for birding and rockhounding.

Hikers enjoy the solitude of three national forests and two major wilderness areas. State Park and Bureau of Land Management trails showcase the beauty and challenges of the region’s desert landscapes.

Elephant Butte and Caballo Lakes on the Rio Grande provide excellent conditions for numerous species of sporting fish. Elephant Butte is host to a full range of water sports including water skiing, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, jet skiing and parasailing.

Southwest New Mexico’s cold, clear streams and mountain lakes provide the challenges that keep the true sportsman returning for more. Hand or electric-powered boats, only, are permitted at these smaller, ‘no wake’ lakes.

Late fall migratory birds provide spectacular bird watching and photo opportunities at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge near Socorro. The Rio Grande and Gila River systems and all mountain regions are host to year-round birding.

Hummingbirds provide a real treat in warmer months in the Lake Roberts and Gila Cliff Dwelling areas. 575-388-8201

HIKING Apache, Cibola and Gila National Forest personnel maintain trail networks throughout the vast mountain region of Old West Country. Specific hiking areas include Aguirre Springs National Recreation Area at Las Cruces, Catwalk National Recreation Trail at Glenwood and segments of the Continental Divide Trail around Silver City.

575-388-8201

BIKING Mountain biking roads and trails are scattered throughout Old West Country, while the sanctioned Tour of the Gila 5day bicycle stage race is held annually in Silver City. Check with local visitors centers for recommendations.

ROCKHOUNDING Gem and mineral activity is found throughout southwest New Mexico. Specific points of interest include the Mineral Museum at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology in Socorro, Rockhound State Park near Deming and the Chino open pit copper mine near Silver City. 575-388-8201.

FISHING Among the state’s major fishing waters are Elephant Butte and Caballo Lakes on the Rio Grande. Mountain lakes and streams are scattered throughout the Gila and Apache National Forests, including Lake Roberts, Bear Canyon Lake, Bill Evans Lake, Snow Lake and Quemado Lake. http://www.state.nm.us or 575-476-8000.

BOATING & WATER SPORTS Water skiing, scuba diving, jet skiing, sailing, parasailing and much more are typical activities at Elephant Butte Lake State Park. At most of the smaller mountain lakes, only electric powered motorboats are allowed.

OLD WEST COUNTRY LAS CRUCES & MESILLA

OW7

TRUTH CONSEQUENCES SIERRA COUNTY ruth or Consequences, known as “America’s Most Affordable Spa Town,” has long been a destination for those seeking to rejuvenate their spirit in its hot mineral waters. The Hot Springs Historic Bathhouse and Commercial District sits atop one of this page: Turtleback the largest aquifers in North America, producing over Mountain rises up from the Rio Grande, two million gallons of hot mineral water each day. directly across from natural hot mineral The town’s original name of Los Ojos Calientes de las Palomas the bath mecca of Truth has gone through some modifications over the years. Popularly or Consequences. inset: Modern bath referred to as Palomas Hot Springs, the name officially became houses and massage therapy create a great Hot Springs in 1916. In 1950, a promotional offer by Ralph visitor package when with the Edwards of the then radio and TV show “Truth or combined area’s galleries, Consequences” persuaded the town’s citizens to change its name. museums and major water sport activities.

The hot mineral springs continue to draw visitors from around the world. Today, ten spas and bathhouses offer soaks in these recuperative hot springs as well as a complete range of massage and other rejuvenating healing arts treatments for weary travelers. With the construction of Spaceport America underway, T or C will soon become host to visitors interested in space exploration.

T SIERRA GRANDE LODGE & SPA A desert sanctuary to delight the senses and rejuvenate the spirit.

On the National Register of Historic Places.

Offering delightful accommodations, rejuvenating spa treatments and private hot spring baths in an unparalleled atmosphere.

Located in the center or town with a conference center.

The Perfect Destination!

501 McAdoo - T or C, NM 575.894.6976

www.sierragrandelodge.com

Paid with City of Truth or Consequences lodgers tax funds

GERONIMO TRAIL NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY encompasses some of the most spectacular beauty in the Southwest.

Old mining towns, museums, art galleries and outdoor activities abound.

211 Main St. - T or C, NM 575.894.1968 800.831.9487 www.geronimotrail.com RED HAVEN MOTEL Nostalgic / Best Value!

1940’s service with free big city amenities!

605 N. Date St. T or C, NM

575.894.2964 www.RedHavenMotel.com

OW8

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

ATTRACTIONS Black Range Ranger District. Camping, hiking, picnicking. 575-894-6677 Caballo Lake State Park.

Boat launch sites, campsites, picnicking and visitor center.

575-743-3942 Elephant Butte Lake State Park. Campsites, visitor center, water sports and trails.

575-744-5421

Geronimo Springs Museum.

Area history, pottery collections and minerals.

211 Main St. 575-894-6600 Veteran's Memorial Park and Viet Nam Memorial Wall.

996 South Broadway, T or C. 575-470-7111 Truth or Consequences Hot Springs. Indoor tubs, bath houses and saunas.

575-894-6600 www.spa-town.com

photo by Sarah Cearley

It’s not just the hot springs that draw visitors to Truth or Consequences. A growing community of artists has turned downtown storefronts into galleries, boutiques and second hand stores. On the second Saturday of every month, over 20 shops open their doors from 6-9 pm for the downtown gallery district Art Hop. Natural wonders abound in the area. The birding in and around Truth or Consequences is renowned. Hiking, mountain biking, and water sports are all “adventure sports” that visitors can experience in Truth or Consequences and throughout Sierra County.

If history is what brings you to Old West Country, the Geronimo Springs Museum and Geronimo Trail Visitors and Interpretive Center take visitors on an historic journey of the area. For an up close and personal look at history, day trips to the historic mining towns of Cuchillo, Winston, Chloride, Hillsboro and Kingston offer visitors a step back in time.

below: old courthouse in Hillsboro. above, from left: school house museum at Lake Valley, underground mining operation near Hanover, Kelly Mine works near Magdalena, old ore car at Chloride, Fort Cobre in Pinos Altos, assay office in Kingston, general store in Mogollon.

Minin

SIERRA COUNTY EVENTS 60th Annual Fiesta. 575-894-6600 Fireworks Display at Elephant Butte Lake St. Park 575-744-5923 Sep 12-13 Elephant Butte Balloon Regatta 575-744-5923 Sept 27 Elephant Man Triathalon 575-744-5923 Oct 3-4 Elephant Butte Celebration 575-744-5923 Oct 9-11 Sierra Co. Fair, Sierra Co. Fairgrounds T or C 575-894-2375 Oct 23-25 New Mexico Old Time Fiddlers State Championship 575-744-4016 Nov 14 Hot Springs Birthday Celebration 575-740-3902 Dec 5 Hillsboro Christmas in the Foothills 575-895-5797 Dec 11 Truth or Consequences Old Fashioned Christmas 575-740-3902 Dec 12 Luminaria Beachwalk and Floating Parade of Lights Elephant Butte Lake State Park 575-744-5923 Apr 30-May 2, 2010 61st Ann Truth or Consequences Fiesta 575-894-6600 May 14, 2010 Hillsboro Heritage Day and Music Festival 575-895-5385 For more information on the above events call the Sierra County Visitor Center at 800-831-9487 or visit www.sierracountynewmexico.info May 1-3 Jul 4

HISTORIC

TOWNS

A number of the towns that the mining industry built in its heyday remain today in Old West Country, but the ringing of double-jack hammers and the roar of black powder are sounds that have faded from the foothills. Several of the towns are still lightly inhabited, have become repopulated or are presently managed by government agencies. All of them played a role in creating the wealth of Old West Country and the nation.

The towns of Winston, Chloride, Lake Valley, Hillsboro and Kingston are historic mining towns forming an informative day trip from the Truth or Consequences area. The mining villages of Pinos Altos and Fierro are accessed from Silver City. The scenic mining community of Mogollon is accessible from Glenwood and Kelly is near Magdalena.

CHLORIDE Mineral: Silver. The Pioneer Store has been turned into a world-class museum, and the Monte Cristo Saloon is now an upscale gallery.

FIERRO Mineral: Copper, Iron and Zinc. The first copper mine was established by a German immigrant in 1841. A small population remains today.

HILLSBORO Mineral: Gold. Post office opened in 1879 and has never closed. Served as county seat for 54 years. Over 200 residents remain in the village.

KINGSTON Mineral: Silver.

Founded in 1882, the population peaked at 7000. Remaining buildings include assay office, Percha Bank and Victorio Hotel.

LAKE VALLEY Mineral: Silver.

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The Bridal Chamber, a legendary large deposit of almost pure silver, was discovered here.

KELLY Mineral: Lead, Copper, Zinc and Silver. A small church, several ruins and foundations and remnants of the mine works remain as testimony to the once-bustling town located just south of Magdalena.

MOGOLLON Mineral: Gold and Silver. Located on the northern edge of the Gila Wilderness near Glenwood, its precious metal bullion was once hauled to Silver City by mule teams.

LOCATION

PINOS ALTOS Mineral: Gold.

Named for the tall trees in the area. Village merchants accepted gold dust in trade well into the 20th century.

TOUR ROUTE

WINSTON Mineral: Silver.

Originally called Fairview, it was home to about 200 people who preferred the quieter town over nearby rambunctious Chloride.

Truth or Consequences sits between I-25 and the Rio Grande, atop hot springs generously feeding local bathhouses and spas From Truth or Consequences, proceed five miles north to the City of Elephant Butte.

MORE INFORMATION

Sierra County Visitors Information (575) 894-6600 www.sierracountynewmexico.info www.sierracounty.net/index.htm Truth or Consequences/Sierra County Chamber of Commerce (575) 894-3536 www.truthorconsequencesnm.net Geronimo Trail National Scenic Byway Visitor’s Center (575) 894-1968 or 1(800) 831-9487 OLD WEST COUNTRY TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES

OW9

CITY

ELEPHANT BUTTE SIERRA COUNTY

he City of Elephant Butte, spread across a hillside overlooking New Mexico’s largest lake, is a growing resort and retirement community. It offers RV facilities, restaurants, hotels and motels, guide services, marinas and watercraft rentals. this page: Marinas Elephant Butte Lake is around forty miles long with nearly 200 miles of shore- on Elephant Butte Lake, New Mexico’s line, It is the state’s premier water sports destination, attracting almost a million visitors largest, provide the focal points for a huge annually. The clean, sandy beaches are ideal for swimming and camping and the lake offers all array of water sporting opposite, manner of boating, water skiing, scuba diving, jet skiing and even parasailing. For anglers, the activities. top: Elephant Butte waters are stocked with many species of game fish, including walleye, white, black and large- Lake is New Mexico’s water playground of mouth bass; crappie and record-setting stripers. Land-based recreational activities include hiking, the desert southwest. opposite, bottom: birding and special events throughout the year.

Championship golfing Elephant Butte Each September, the city sponsors the Elephant Butte Balloon Regatta which features hot air in ranks among the balloons, skydivers and drag boats from across the country. An exciting nighttime special event is state’s best golfing experiences. the Beach Walk Luminaria Festival and Lighted Boat Parade held annually at Christmas. The occasion dazzles the eye with thousands of luminaries lining a specially designed path on the beach. Along the way, campfires, live music and food provided by local vendors warm both body and soul. The celebration also includes a parade of illuminated boats, ending with prizes awarded for the most amusingly or elaborately decorated watercraft or RV.

T

OW10

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

ELEPHANT BUTTE INN AND SPA "An Enchanting Retreat from the Ordinary" • • • • • • • •

The Elephant Butte Lake State Park Visitor Center will interest rockhounds with its fossil and geologic exhibits. Fans of engineering and history will enjoy the story of the early 20th century construction of the dam that created the lake, which is named for an extinct volcano that is now an island landmark in the reservoir.

LOCATION

The City of Elephant Butte is located just off I-25, on the edge of New Mexico’s largest recreational lake.

TOUR

Rejoin I-25 and travel north 68 miles past Camino Real International Heritage Center to Socorro.

MORE INFORMATION

Elephant Butte Chamber of Commerce (575) 744-4708

www.elephantbuttechamberofcommerce.com info@elephantbuttechamberofcommerce.com

Lakeview Rooms Full Service Spa & Salon Golf & Spa Packages Boat Rental Packages Ivory Tusk Tavern & Restaurant Conference Facilities Free Wi-Fi Heated Outdoor Pool (Seasonal)

401 Highway 195 | Elephant Butte, NM 575.744.5431 | w w w.ElephantButteInn.com

ELEPHANT BUTTE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE “New Mexico’s Diamond in the Desert” Elephant Butte is the premiere recreation destination in the state of New Mexico. Nestled along the shores of the largest lake in the state, the city of Elephant Butte offers year-round sunshine and a comfortable climate.

“Elephant Butte-Stay and Play!”

608 Highway 195 | Elephant Butte

575.744.4708 • 877.744.4900 www.ElephantButteChamberOfCommerce.com info@elephantbuttechamberofcommerce.com

ELEPHANT BUTTE LAKE MARINAS Dam Site Marina - www.thedamsite.com, 575-894-2041, Birdwatching Boat Tours/Field Trips, Cabins, Lodge, Store, Beer.

Dam Site Restaurant - 575-894-2073, Lunch, Dinner, Bar. Marina del Sur - www.marinadelsur.info, 575-744-5567, Boat Rentals-Pontoon/Ski/Water Toys, Store, Gas, Ice.

Rock Canyon Marina - rockcanyonmarina.com, 575-744-5462, Aqualodges, Pontoon Boat Rentals, Overnite Slips, Store.

Service Center - 575-744-4416, Boat Repair, Mechanic.

OLD WEST COUNTRY ELEPHANT BUTTE

OW11

SOCORRO SOCORRO COUNTY

T

outing a unique blend of nature, history and technology, Socorro is internationally renowned for the migratory bird facilities at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, its San Miguel Parish serving weary travelers on El Camino Real since 1615 and its immense role with the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. A notable destination for golfers, rockhounds, nature photographers, campers and hikers, the town offers unique experiences found within an hour’s drive in all directions.

At the center of town, the plaza offers a relaxing venue for initiating your adventure and a little shopping for hard to please friends. A block away is the historic San Miguel church, a center of activity for centuries. A few blocks further is New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. The campus includes a mineral museum containing one of the world’s finest mineral collections, a lush golf course and facilities for the National Radio Astronomy Observatory.

From Socorro, visitors can travel west through Magdalena, a historic mining, cattle and railroad town, before emerging onto the high Plains of San Agustin and the Very Large Array Radio Telescope. At the VLA visitor center, one learns how 27 antenna dishes, each 82 feet in diameter can be positioned along three thirteen-mile intersecting stretches of track, can operate as a single unit. VLA data from deep space is processed at the Socorro facility as well as data recovered from the Very Long Baseline Array, a series of ten clusters of radio telescopes stretching from the Virgin Islands to Hawaii.

ATTRACTIONS Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Visitor center, auto tour, hiking and year-round birding. 16 miles south of Socorro. 575-838-2120. www.friendsofthebosque.org Cibola National Forest–Magdalena Dist.

Made up of the largest collection of historic ranchlands in New Mexico. 575-854-2281 El Camino Real International Heritage Center. 575-854-3600 Mineralogical Museum. More than 9,500 mineral specimens. Fossils. 575-835-5420. www.geoinfo.nmt.edu OW12

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

NM Institute of Mining and Technology.

801 Leroy Pl., on campus, 1-800-428-8324 N.M. Performing Arts Series. Call for schedule. 575-835-5688. www.nmt.edu/~pas/ Plains of San Agustin. The largest and highest grasslands in North America.

866-854-3217 Old Kelly Mine. Mine ruins and many wonderful specimens for rockhounds.

3 miles south of Magdalena.

866-854-3217 www.magdalena-nm.com

Trinity Site. Site of world’s first atomic bomb explosion. Open twice a year; the first Saturday in April and Oct.. 575-479-6124 The Boxcar Museum. Local history, artifacts of Wild West, mining, cattle drives, circa 1885-1930. Located next to AT&SF Railroad Depot. 108 N. Main St. Magdalena 575-854-2261 www.magdalena-nm.com Very Large Array National Radio Astronomy Observatory. Visitor center, self-guided tours, world’s largest radio-telescope array on the Plains of San Agustin.

575-835-7000. www.nrao.ed

Timeless discovery...

Birding Events & Wildlife Refuges Ancient Ruins & Historic Sites Traveling south from Socorro and exiting at the village of San Antonio, the 1880s site of the first Hilton Hotel, visitors can work their way south to the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Home to a variety of wildlife year-round, the 57,000-acre refuge is also a feeding and resting point for thousands of migratory birds comprising 377 identified species, including bald eagles, snow geese and sandhill cranes. Each year in late autumn, people from around the

this page: Sandhill cranes stroll through the manmade marshes of Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. inset: The Very Large Array of radio telescopes, west of Socorro, collects space chatter from across the universe. opposite, top: The plaza of Socorro forms the community’s activities and business hub. bottom: San Miguel Mission was first established by Spanish colonists in the late 1600s and rebuilt in 1816.

Performance Arts & Fine Art Galleries Historic Re-enactments & Walking Tours Observatories & Star Parties Forts & Ghost Towns The BEST Green Chile Gem & Mineral Museum Extensive Hiking & Biking Trails New Mexico Tech Public Golf Course Outdoor Recreation Areas & Hunting Opportunities

SOCORRO COUNTY EVENTS

18-19 Tour of Socorro Mountain Bike Race 575-350-4116 Spring Fiesta 11am-4pm 575-854-3600 Socorro Fest. Historic Plaza 575-835-8927 www.socorrofest.com Oct 14-17 Enchanted Skies Star Party.

575-835-8927 Nov 17-22 Festival of the Cranes at Bosque del Apache Refuge. 575-835-2007 www.friendsofthebosque.org/crane For more information on any of the above events please call the Socorro Visitor Center at 575-835-8927 or visit www.socorronm.gov

Apr

Jun Oct

6 9-10

LOCATION

Socorro is located at the junction of I-25 and US60, the rest stop for historic travelers and migratory birds.

TOUR ROUTE

Travel 27 miles west on US60 to the Village of Magdalena, “the Trail’s End,” and the mountain ghost town of Kelly.

MORE INFORMATION

Socorro Heritage and Visitor Center (575) 835-8927 www.socorronm.gov

OLD WEST COUNTRY SOCORRO

OW13

For Reservations Call:

800-4-Motel 6 or

(800-466-8356) 807 South US Highway 85 • Socorro, New Mexico 87801 575-835-4300 • Fax: 575-835-3108

www.Motel6.com A Unique Selection of Gifts for All Reasons & Seasons.

575.835.2498 116-118 Plaza, Socorro, NM

• Native American and Native New Mexican Arts & Crafts • Mexican Arts & Crafts • Pottery and Ceramic Art • Desert Garden Chili & Spices • Indian Jewelry & Custom Jewelry • Books & Cards • Imports Mon.-Sat. 9am to 5:30pm

Old West Trails is now online!

www.ziapublishing.com

world come to watch the grand spectacle as birds arrive at the shallow marshlands and depart again in huge flocks that resemble clouds blocking the sun. One need not be a devoted birding enthusiast to enjoy the occasion or the area. Hikers appreciate the nature trails one to nine miles in length, which offer fantastic opportunities for viewing and photographing wildlife. A 12-mile auto tour loop gives visitors an overview of the beauty of the refuge, and the Bosque Nature Store – a bookstore and gift shop – is open all year.

History fans will want to travel another 20 miles southward to visit El Camino Real International Heritage Center and the nearby ruins of Fort Craig, one of the largest forts of the Old West era. The site also includes a small museum.

Northeast of Socorro are the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, impressive remnants of Spanish colonization efforts.

Socorro is the hub for a number of other outdoor destinations and recreational areas including Box Canyon, Escondida Lake Park, San Lorenzo Canyon, Water Canyon Campground and the Quebradas Backcountry Scenic Byway.

above: The golf course on the campus of New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology is the exercise connection for both the community and its visitors. opposite: Kelly Church, built in the late 1800s is still utilized for special functions near the village of Magdalena.

MAGDALENA SOCORRO COUNTY itting on high grassy plains that fan out below 10,800-foot South Baldy Peak, just minutes away from the drop-off into the Rio Grande Valley, the picturesque village of Magdalena celebrates its ties to the arts and to the Old West. Serving the Alamo Navajo people and the descendants of cattle barons, railroaders and hard rock miners, the village has added a branch to its family tree that welcomes the high-tech participants of the nearby Very Large Array.

Galleries and shops occupying historic buildings are part of the makeup of this small community. Local and non-local artwork and cowboy art can be found as well as rustic and Southwest furniture, handcrafted Navajo jewelry and lots of collectables. A slice of history can be witnessed in the “Box Car Museum” and the restored Santa Fe Railroad Depot serves as the Magdalena Village offices. The “good ole days” are relived at the annual three-day Magdalena Old Timers Reunion held in July.

Known as the “Trails End,” Magdalena was the termination of a railroad spur extended from the east in 1885 and the 125-mile “Stock Driveway” from the west. Usage of the cattle trail peaked in 1919 when 150,000 sheep and 21,000 cattle entered the still-intact Magdalena stockyards. The era was rich with the tales of pioneer families, main street shoot-outs, John Wayne-style cattle drives and mining activities.

The nearby mining ghost town of Kelly was home to about 3000 people during its prosperous late-1800s heyday. A small, whitewashed church, foundations, remnants of mining activities and a graveyard are all that remain. A visitor permit is required.

Twenty miles to the west is the Very Large Array Radio Telescope. Operated by EVENTS Mar 14 Decorate an Egg Workshop Bear Mountain the National Radio Astronomy Coffee House 575-854-3310 21 Music Jam Bear Mountain Coffee House Observatory, a visitor center explains the 575-854-3310 Apr 4 Hot Dog Roast & Kids Games (Win a free site’s role in mapping the universe.

Easter chick & other Prizes) Magdalena

S

Feed Co. 575-854-3253 3, 4, 5, Egg Show Exhibit, Bear Mountain Gallery & 10-12,17-19 Route 60. Reception April 4. 575-854-3310 7 NM Symphony Orchestra (Woodwind Quartet) Magdalena School 2:45pm, 575-854-8006 May 2 Student Art Contest Judging & Reception Bear Mountain Gallery. Student Art on Display through May 20th. 575-854-3310 8 BBQ w/Live Music (Fundraiser for Steele Chicks & Music Scholarships) Magdalena Hall Apartments 575-854-2040 Jun 6 Magdalena Arts Festival & Studio Tour 1-866-854-3217 Jul 10-12 Old Timers Reunion, Rodeo, Pancake Breakfast, Arts & Crafts, BBQ, Music and much more. 575-401-4352 Jul 10-12 “The Ballad of Babe & Beau.” London 18-19 Frontier Theatre Co. 575-854-2519 Sep 19 Magdalena Steel Music Festival 575-854-2040 Oct 23-25, “And None Rode Away: the Black Canyon 31-Nov 1 Legend. London Frontier Theatre Co. 575-854-2519 Dec 11-13 “The Trail of Lonesome Tree: a Lost Wife Creek Christmas” London Frontier Theatre Co. 575-854-2519 Dec 19 Santa and Dance Monthly 1st Saturday Dance with Live Music

LOCATION

Magdalena is located on US60 between Socorro and the Very Large Array.

TOUR

Travel west on US60 through the Very Large Array, turning west on NM12 to Reserve, a total of 101 miles.

MORE INFORMATION

Magdalena Chamber of Commerce 1(866) 854-3217 www.magdalena-nm.com email: info@magdalena-nm.com OLD WEST COUNTRY MAGDALENA

OW15

&

RESERVE GLENWOOD CATRON COUNTY

hree national forests, including Gila, Apache and Cibola share borders within Catron County, New Mexico’s largest political entity. The county is a sparsely populated land of mountain lakes, hiking trails and Elfego Baca.

Snow Lake on the edge of the Gila Wilderness area and Quemado Lake just south of Quemado are excellent trout waters where only electric boat motors are allowed. Snow Lake is accessed by well-maintained dirt roads in the warmer months from either Glenwood or Reserve.

Quemado Lake can be accessed from NM32 that connects US60 to the north and NM12 to the south.

Reserve, the county seat, is the site where a 19 year old, self-appointed lawman, Elfego Baca, endured a 33hour shootout in 1884 against incredible odds to resolve the abuse of local residents. A bronze statue now commemorates the incident.

Glenwood on US 180 is the hub for the Catwalk National Recreation Trail and the ghost town of Mogollon. The Catwalk consists of a picnic area shaded by large cottonwood trees and a narrow canyon with metal walkways clinging to the bluffs. The catwalks originally supported water pipes for gold mining operations. The trail continues deep

T

Photo by Debra Sutton

ATTRACTIONS

OW16

Alma. Historic community 7 miles north of Glenwood.

The Catwalk. Trail over suspended bridges in Whitewater Canyon 5 miles east of Glenwood. 575-539-2711.

Clairmont. Ghost town 19 miles northeast of Glenwood. 575-533-6922 Cooney’s Tomb. Alma, 7 miles north of Glenwood. Burial of soldiers killed in a conflict with Apaches.

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

Mogollon. Ghost town 13 miles northeast of Glenwood.

Snow Lake. In the Gila National Forest.

Camping and fishing. 47 miles northeast of Glenwood.

Quemado Lake. Camping and fishing, 11 miles south of Quemado.

Whitewater Canyon. 5 miles east of Glenwood. 575-539-2711 WS Cemetery. WS Ranch B & B, Alma, 7 miles north of Glenwood. 575-539-2513

this page: The spirit of legendary lawman Elfego Baca is portrayed in bronze at the highway crossroads in Reserve. inset: Whitewater Creek swirls and crashes through boulders along Catwalk National Recreation Trail by Glenwood. opposite, top: Catron County is a land of endless forests, mountain lakes and wilderness vistas. right: Above Alma, the tomb of gold prospector James Cooney, killed in 1880 by Apaches is a reminder of the hardships faced by early settlers.

Tres Amigos Enterprises Inc. New Construction Adobe Homes Metal Roofing

Photo by Debra Sutton

Kenny Sutton, Licensed Contractor

Glenwood, New Mexico 575.539.2584 • 505.469.1561 tresamigos@wildblue.net

Udder Delight Say goodbye to dry skin!

into the Gila Wilderness for hearty hikers and horseback excursions. Fly fishing Whitewater Creek is both challenging and rewarding. The Glenwood Ranger District alone maintains over 322 miles of hiking trails. Glenwood also has a state fish hatchery that is exciting for youngsters and grownups alike.

The narrow, winding road from Glenwood to the gold mining ghost town of Mogollon is well worth the patient drive. A number of buildings still occupy the bottom of a picturesque narrow canyon.

At the east end of Catron County, Datil Well National Recreation Area provides campsites and hiking trails. Nearby Enchanted Tower attracts rock climbers.

Our natural goat milk soaps, lotions and creams will leave your skin feeling soft, supple, nourished, and moisturized.

Store Hours: Mon-Sat 9-5

5121 Highway 180 • Glenwood, NM 88039 1.877.833.3740 www.udderdelight.com

Whitewater Motel Relax and enjoy vacationing in the heart of Glenwood.

Surrounded by rugged mountains and forests.

• Dish Network • Air Conditioning • Fantastic Views • Spacious Backyard

PO Box 158 • Glenwood, NM 88039 575.539.2581 • www.gilanet.com/whitewatermotel

Los Olmos Ranch

Alma Store & Grill EVENTS

Glenwood Park Barrel Race and Pot Blessing. 575-539-2321 Mar Dutch Oven Cook-Off in Glenwood Park. 575-539-2321 Jul July 4th Celebration in Glenwood.

575-539-2711 Jul July 4th Celebration in Quemado and Reserve. 575-533-6968 Jul Frisco CowBelles’ Annual Western Art Auction, Dance and Barbeque in Glenwood. 575-539-2711 Jul Luna Pioneer Days and Rodeo.

575-533-6968 Aug Catron County Fair and Rodeo in Reserve. 575-533-6968 Sep Pie Town Pie Festival. 575-772-2525 Feb

LOCATION

Reserve is located at the junction of NM 12 and the San Francisco River.

TOUR

From Reserve, proceed west on NM12 seven miles to US180 and turn south thirty miles to Glenwood and another 60 miles southeast to Silver City.

MORE INFORMATION

Catron County Chamber (575) 533-6968 www.catroncounty.org

Family Owned and Operated.

• Restaurant • Fuel • Groceries • Ice • Video Rentals Open 7 Days a Week. Restaurant Open Daily 6am to 3pm Breakfast Served All Day! Mexican and American dishes.

See our collection of antique photos and western memorabilia.

HC 61 Box 169, Alma, NM • 575.539.CAFE (2233)

Take an Exciting Dude Ranch Vacation with us!

• 12 Newly Remodeled Cabins • Swimming Pool • Fishing Pond • Bird Watching

PO Box 225, Glenwood, NM • 888.539.2213 www.thelosolmosranch.com

Angelwings

Super Salve Co.

Coordinated Care LLC. & Angelwings Home Care Serving Catron and Grant Counties.

Homemaker Services.

Glenwood Office: 575.539.2227 Silver City Office: 575.534.0311

100% Natural Herbal Skin Care Products Denise Tracy-Cowan, Founder and Clinical Herbologist

•Pure Herbal Comfort •Highest Quality Ingredients Produced in The Land of Enchantment with earth-friendly packaging.

HC 61, Box 300, Mogollon, NM 1.888.9LOTION • www.SuperSalve.com

Catron County Chamber of Commerce

575.533.6968 • www.CatronCounty.org

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY

f you believe that numbers talk, Silver City should top your vacation or relocation considerations. There are three million acres of forest and wilderness covering the city’s back yard, crisscrossed by 1500 miles of trails. Three hundred ten species of birds have been identified in the region. Thirty art galleries are bursting with friendly, small town atmosphere and you won’t find better year-round temperature figures…anywhere.

The question may become, can you handle it? Can you walk through the historic downtown district without falling in love with every piece of art you see?

Can you handle opening a new office knowing that mild, sun-drenched weather will be enticing you daily to escape to your favorite fishing lake, another round of golf or simply your backyard garden?

I

ATTRACTIONS Big Ditch Park. Park formed when flood lowered Main St. 55 feet.

Fort Bayard. U.S. Infantry post built in 1863. Housed Buffalo Soldiers.

10 miles east of Silver City.

Gila National Forest/Silver City Ranger District. 3005 E. Camino del Bosque. 575-388-8201. www.fs.fed.us/r3/gila Kneeling Nun. Natural monolith resembling a praying nun. 15 mi.

E. of Silver City at Santa Rita mine.

OW18

Mimbres Region Arts Council.

Scheduled events held throughout the year. 575-758-7289. www.mimbresarts.org Royal Scepter Mineral Museum.

Rock shop, jewelry and gifts.

1805 Little Walnut. 575-538-9001. www.RoyalScepter.com San Vicente Art Walks. Self-guided gallery and studio tour within walking distance in downtown Silver City. Call for map. 1-800-548-9378

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

Silver City Museum. Area history, Indian artifacts, mining exhibits and Victorian furnishings.

312 W. Broadway. 575-388-5721. www.silvercitymuseum.org Western New Mexico University Museum. Local and natural history including the Eisele Collection of Prehistoric Southwestern Pottery and Artifacts, the world’s largest permanent exhibit of Mimbres pottery. 1000 W. College. 575-538-6386. www.wnmu.edu/univ/museum.html

Bill Evans Lake. Fishing and primitive camping, 12 miles south of Cliff.

Aldo Leopold Vista. Picnic and wilderness interpretive site, 6 miles north of Buckhorn.

Turkey Creek. Primitive trout stream northeast of Gila, NM. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Cliff dwelling ruins from the 13th century. 44 miles north of Silver City. 575-536-9461

opposite: At the corner of Bullard and Broadway, the Old West ambiance of Silver City's historic downtown district stirs the imagination and kindles the attraction to a lifestyle that has preserved the best of previous eras. inset: Surrounded by scenic forest and wilderness areas, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument offers a glimpse into a culture that disappeared in the late 1200s.

The dwellings and visitor center are one of the highlights along the Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway.

GRANT COUNTY EVENTS Red Paint PowWow & Indian Market 575-534-1379 Feb 7 Chocolate Fantasia 575-538-2505 Apr 29-May 3 23st Annual Tour of the Gila 575-538-3785 www.tourofthegila.com May 22-25 Silver City Blues Festival 575-538-2505 www.mimbresarts.org May 27-30 Wild, Wild West Pro Rodeo.

575-538-3785 Jun TBA 10th Annual Pinos Altos Art Fair.

575-388-5202 Jul 4 4th of July Celebrations.

575-538-3785 Sep 5-6 San Vicente Art Fair 575-534-4269 artfair@silvercityartists.org Sep TBA Cliff, Gila and Grant County Fair.

575-538-3785 Oct TBA Pinos Altos October Fiesta.

575-538-5560 Oct 3 Taste Of Downtown.

575-534-1700 www.mainstreet@gilanet.com Oct 9-12 Weekend at the Galleries.

575-538-2505 Nov 28 19th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade. 575-534-1700 Jan 16-19

LOCATION

Silver City is located at the junction of US180 and NM90, on the Continental Divide and the southern edge of the Gila National Forest.

TOUR

Travel east on US180 eleven miles past historic Fort Bayard to the mining towns of Bayard and Hurley.

MORE INFORMATION

Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce (575) 538-3785 1(800) 548-9378 www.silvercity.org Mimbres Region Arts Council (575) 538-2505 1(888) 758-7289 www.mimbresarts.org

Lake Roberts. Camping, trout fishing, hummingbird banding, birding and stargazing. 28 miles north of Silver City. 575-536-3206 Lightfeather Hot Spring. Near Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center. 30 minute walk includes 2 river crossings. 575-536-9461 Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway. Loops north on NM15 to Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Monument,

southeast on NM35, and west on NM152 and US180.

Hearst Church. Seasonal museum and art gallery. Built in 1898 with Hearst newspaper empire money. In Pinos Altos, 6 miles north of Silver City.

Pinos Altos Melodrama Theater. Adjacent to the Buckhorn Saloon in the Pinos Altos Opera House. Great fun!

Original melodramas. Call for schedule. 575-388-3848

OLD WEST COUNTRY SILVER CITY

OW19

United Country Mimbres Realty, Inc. “No One Knows the Country Like We Do!” OPEN WEEKENDS! Office in "Historic Downtown" Silver City

414 North Bullard Street Silver City, NM 88061

575.534.4616 877.646.2737 Rodeo Office

199 Highway 80 Rodeo, NM 88056

575.557.1244 Property Management

575.313.3208

Georgia Bearup, Qualifying Broker/Owner United Country Mimbres Realty 414 N. Bullard, in “Historic Downtown” Silver City

575.538.3789 800.827.9198 cell – 575.388.8556 Georgia@MimbresRealty.com

www.MimbresRealty.com

NO ONE KNOWS THE COUNTRY LIKE WE DO!!

www.MimbresRealty.com www.UnitedCountry.com/SilverCityNM

The Palace Hotel Celebrating 109 Years

June Decker, Located in the downtown historic district.

Reminiscent of a small hotel in the European Tradition.

• Affordable Rates • 18 Rooms & Suites

Associate Broker United Country Mimbres Realty 414 N. Bullard, in “Historic Downtown” Silver City

575.538.3789 877.827.9198 cell – 575.590.2350 June@MimbresRealty.com www.MimbresRealty.com

“My goal is for you to be pleased with your real estate experience.”

• Continental Breakfast

106 W. Broadway, Silver City, NM 88061

575.388.1811 www.zianet.com/palacehotel

Silver City Museum Store Excellent Southwest Book Selection & Regional Gifts Tuesday-Friday 9:00 to 4:30 Saturday-Sunday 10:00 to 4:00 Closed Monday.

Mary Kjos Associate Broker United Country Mimbres Realty 414 N. Bullard, in “Historic Downtown” Silver City

575.537.7988 800.827.9198 cell – 575.574.6841 marykjos@hotmail.com www.MimbresRealty.com

“High-energy and caring professional who treats customers with respect.”

312 W. Broadway Silver City, NM 575.388.5721 silvercitymuseum.org

Western New Mexico University Museum

WNMU houses the largest permanent display of Mimbres pottery & culture in the world.

FREE Admission Open Daily/Closed University Holidays Mon-Fri 9 to 4:30 • Sat. & Sun.10 to 4

312 W. Broadway Silver City, NM 575.388.5721 silvercitymuseum.org OW20

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

Cissy McAndrew, Associate & EcoBroker ®, e-PRO United Country Mimbres Realty 414 N. Bullard, in “Historic Downtown” Silver City

575.538.1337 800.827.9198 Cissy@MimbresRealty.com www.SilverCityTour.com

Former Chamber of Commerce Director.

Personal community tours available 7 days a week.

Looking back, the Mogollon culture was enjoying this climate some 800 years ago and the Mimbres people were developing creative images. Today, you can drive to the protected remains of their civilization at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument or simply visit area museums to learn about this hearty people who left behind a wealth of ingenious artwork. Centuries later, the Apache chief Geronimo was born near the headwaters of the Gila River and is recognized by a monument erected at the cliff dwellings visitor center.

In Silver City, bicycles rule with cyclists enjoying designated rights of way in certain areas. Mountain bikers can traverse miles of forest trails or road bikers can get really serious and participate in the annual sanctioned Tour of the Gila 5-day stage race

through Silver City and surrounding mountains roadways. A host of international participants keep the competition keen.

For photographers, and we are all photographers, it gets no better than the Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway.

Lakes and streams, an 1800s gold mining camp, prehistoric dwellings, a mission church, a serene farming valley, major historic and current mining operations, a fort that utilized the famed Buffalo Soldiers and scenic vistas encompassing the rugged beauty of the nation’s first wilderness provide the subject matter for a whole album or a series of albums, if you return often.

There are over 20 designated birding areas above: The colorful Yankie/Texas Street intersection is the hub of Silver City’s historic downtown art district.

Outstanding Agents, Outstanding Results #1 Selling Office in 2008!

Nobody sells more Real Estate than

314 E. 14th Street P.O. Box 1477 Silver City, NM 88062

Silver Advantage 575.538.3847 • 800.716.3847 www.realestatesilvercitynm.com

Fine Art & Furnishings • Native American Jewelry, Pottery & Folk Art • "Spanish Primitive" & Antique Furniture • Fine Art & Art Glass • Rugs & Textiles

575-388-4426 305 & 307 N. Bullard St. • Silver City, NM

OLD WEST COUNTRY SILVER CITY

OW21

Timberland Construction Inc. Exclusive Designs.

Land/Home Packages Available in Dos Griegos and Pine Ridge Subdivisions.

Art & Conversation Yada Yada Yarn 614 N. Bullard St. 575.388.3350 artandconversation.com

Nationally Backed Home Owners Warranty is provided with each new home we build.

Silver City, NM 575.313.5140 888.217.7962 ernie@timberlandconstruction.com

www.timberlandconstruction.com Building in Grant County Since 1997

Mimbres Region Arts Council Elemental Arts 575.590.7554 www.gourdweb.com

• Performance Series • Pickamania! September 11-13 • Silver City Blues FestivalMemorial Day Weekend • Weekend at the Galleries Columbus Day Weekend

888.758.7289 • 575.538.2505 www.MimbresArts.org

Lois Duffy Art 575.313.9631 www.loisduffy.com

Mountain Air Productions Providing digital audio recording, production services & performance space for the performing arts.

Located in Historic Downtown Silver City. Serving clients worldwide

214-A West Yankie Street Silver City, NM • 575.956.5269 www.mountainairstudio.com

Seedboat Gallery 575.534.1136 seedboatgallery.com

Prudential Silver City Properties 120 E. 11th Street Silver City, NM 88061 Toll-free 866.538.0404 Office 575.538.0404

Two Spirit Gallery 311 N. Bullard 575.956.8397

info@prudentialsilvercity.com www.prudentialsilvercity.com

Gila House Hotel Downtown Bed & Breakfast

Gallery 400 In the heart of Silver City's Historic District within walking distance to restaurants, galleries, museums, coffee houses and nightlife.

Yello on Yankie 575.534.4968 yello@zianet.com OW22

400 N. Arizona Silver City, NM • 575.313.7015 www.gilahouse.com

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

surrounding Silver City that include a very diverse range of habitat conditions.

The Lake Roberts area hosts an annual hummingbird festival and provides banding demonstrations for the 10 species that have been identified during the warmer months.

Silver City itself consists of an intriguing collection of Victorian homes and a historic business district that includes restaurants and coffee shops, galleries, day spas, specialty shops and two highly informative museums. Western New Mexico University adds an important cultural dimension to the community as does an energetic arts council.

Major events, in addition to the Tour of the Gila, include the renowned Silver City Blues Festival, the Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo, Weekend at the Galleries and the Red Paint PowWow. Another important number for the adventuresome individual who is known to exit the confines of interstate travel is 800-548-9378. There is help for those still contemplating their vacation destination or more importantly, the objectives for the rest of their lives. above: A footbridge across Big Ditch Park leads from the visitor center to the heart of the historic downtown business district of Silver City.

BAYARD GRANT

& HURLEY

COUNTY

he Town of Bayard has historically served the work forces of the state’s richest mining region. Today, much of the mining has stopped or significantly slowed, but generations of mining families still live and conduct business and services in the area. Head frames from past underground mining operations can be seen as one travels north on NM356 from Bayard. Turning east on NM152, visitors can overlook the massive open pit mining operation at Santa Rita, where copper has been mined since the 1800s.

Hurley served as the management center for the largest of the area mines, as well as the location for copper smelting operations. Some work continues but smelting has ceased and all evidence of that era has disappeared. Infant Jesus Catholic Church is one of the prominent sights of Hurley, as well as the old company store, which is now a distinguished art gallery.

The historic jewel of the area is Fort Bayard National Historic Landmark, National Cemetery and state game reserve. Well-preserved officer’s quarters and a statue of a Buffalo Soldier on the parade grounds are the backdrops for annual reenactments of the 1800s cavalry era. The state hospital located on the grounds is being replaced by a sprawling new facility near the entrance.

T

welcomes you to our mining district cities of Hurley, Bayard & Santa Clara.

The Town of Hurley, founded in 1910, will be celebrating 100 years in 2010. Enjoy the Kneeling Nun scenic vista (pictured above) surrounded by rock-faced mountains.

575.538.3785 www.silvercity.org 201 N. Hudson St. Silver City, NM 88061

Funded by Silver City Lodger's Tax

J W Fine Art • Western Art • Bronze Sculpture Custom Picture Framing Restorations • Art Workshops

Gift Shop, Museum

575.537.0300 - 99 Cortez Avenue, Hurley NM Hours: Wed./Fri. 9-5 Sat./Sun. 10-6 PREVIEW ARTISTS: www.thetown.com A bronze sculp-ture on the parade grounds of Fort Bayard National Historic Landmark portray the Buffalo Soldiers, as they were called by the Apaches, stationed there in the late 1800s.

ATTRACTIONS

Fort Bayard. U.S. Infantry post built in 1863.

Housed Buffalo Soldiers. 10 miles east of Silver City.

Kneeling Nun. Natural monolith resembling a praying nun. 15 mi. E. of Silver City at Santa Rita mine.

FORT BAYARD EVENTS May 24 Aug 23 Sep 19-20

Ft. Bayard Wilderness Run www.zianet.com/ftbayardrun Ft. Bayard’s 142nd Birthday 575-388-4477 Fort Bayard Days 575-388-4477

LOCATION

Bayard and Hurley are located on US180 in the heart of New Mexico’s largest and most historic mining district.

TOUR

Return to Silver City on US180 and turn south-west on NM90 forty-five miles to Lordsburg.

MORE INFORMATION

Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce (575) 538-3785 1(800)5489378 www.silvercity.org City of Bayard (575)537-3327 www.bayardminingtours.gov OLD WEST COUNTRY BAYARD & HURLEY

OW23

of e

TRAIL MOUNTAIN SPIRITS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY

T

he Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway, traversing centuries of human activity and spectacular scenic vistas, provides a very full and diverse automobile day trip. Ancient dwellings, an 1800s mining village, forts, lakes, streams, mission churches, and a mammoth copper mine will likely require followup trips for further exploration of specific sites.

From Silver City, drive north on NM15. Perched on the Continental Divide, the arts village of Pinos Altos had a tumultuous beginning when gold was discovered this page: Lake Roberts offers mountain nearby in 1859. The main street of the business district, with its saloon, opera fishing, camping and hiking opportunities with house, and a replica of old Fort Cobre, remains reminiscent of that era. overnight accommodaNM 15 winds on through the three million acre Gila National Forest past tions and access to the nearby Gila Cliff Dwel- vistas encompassing two rugged wilderness areas to the Gila Cliff Dwellings lings Nat’l. Monument.

National Monument. A short hiking trail at the monument leads to the cliff dwellings of the Mogollon culture. A visitor center provides details of these prehistoric people as well as acknowledging the birthplace of the Apache leader, Geronimo.

NM 35 then parallels the tranquil Sapillo Creek and Lake Roberts areas. Complete with sandstone bluffs, pine forests, and campgrounds, these year-round attractions are of special

LOCATION

The scenic byway loops north from Silver City and includes forest vistas, cliff dwellings, lakes, farmlands, historic villages, forts and mining operations.

TOUR

From Fort Bayard, take US180 westbound to return to Silver City, or proceed in the eastbound lanes to visit Bayard.

MORE INFORMATION

Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce (575) 538-3785 • 1(800) 548-9378 www.silvercity.org

OW24

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

Bear Creek

Motel & Cabins Fabulous getaway nestled in the tall pines of Pinos Altos.

• Crackling Fireplaces • Secluded Balconies • Relaxing Porches • Telephone & WiFi • Satellite TV • Barbeque Grill • Hot Tub in Cabana • Meeting Room Z • Cabins with Z Z Z kitchens are available.

Conveniently located just 7 miles north of Silver City on NM Highway 15.

575.388.4501•888.388.4515 www.bearcreekcabins.com

Make reservations & view availability online

Spirit Canyon Lodge & Cafe Birding • Fishing • Forest Hiking Trails • Gila Cliff Dwellings Hotsprings • Indian Ruins Cafe offers full menu and German specialites on Saturday.

interest to birders and anglers, with lodging and dining located nearby.

Heading south, the byway descends into the Mimbres River farming valley. Built in the 1800s, the church at San Lorenzo is still in use today.

Turning westward on NM152, the route leads back toward Silver City. The open pit copper mine at Santa Rita is a spectacular achievement of man. Because of its size, it is difficult to realize that the tiny-looking ore trucks in the distance are approximately three stories tall.

The last stop on the tour is historic Fort Bayard, a National Landmark, a National Cemetery and state game preserve. The Medal of Honor statue honors the Buffalo Soldiers once stationed there.

684 Hwy. 35, Lake Roberts 575.536.9459 www.spiritcanyon.com

Why stay in a motel?

Prudential Silver City Properties Mimbres Branch Office Robin Thomas, Associate Broker 2991 Hwy. 35 • Mimbres, New Mexico Office 575.536.2900 Toll free 877.536.2908 Cell 575.574.8798

robin@mimbresrealestate.com www.mimbresvalleyrealestate.com

Explore,

opposite, top: The forty rooms constructed in caves at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument were occupied by the ancient Mogollon Indian Culture for only about twenty years before being abandoned. bottom: The spirit of the ancient Mimbres Culture still lingers below Cook’s Peak and amongst the lush farmlands and quaint mission churches of the Mimbres River Valley.

relax and play along the trail of the Ancients, Spanish explorers, Native Americans, Buffalo Soldiers, mountainmen, miners and homesteaders.

tmsbyway.com

Gila Cliff Dwelling Visitor Center - 575-536-9461 Funded in part by the Federal Highway Administration.

OLD WEST COUNTRY TRAIL OF THE MOUNTAIN SPIRITS

OW25

MIMBRES VALLEY GRANT COUNTY

T

he upper Rio Mimbres, so named by Spanish explorers, provides for a scenic, yet very relaxing one-day automobile tour. Just east of Lake Roberts, NM35 bisects the Continental Divide Trail and slow-

ly descends into the tranquil Mimbres Valley. Meandering along the edges of orchards and fields tended by descendents of late 1800s settlers and The City of Rocks State Park offers trails through huge boulders, a botanical garden, picnic facilities, overnight campsites and a visitor center.

through the growing communities of Mimbres and San Lorenzo, the road crosses NM152 to become NM61, with Cooke’s Peak as a constant landmark. Small mission churches across the river at San Lorenzo and along NM61 at San

Juan and Faywood add to the quaint atmosphere of the area. Just before reaching US180, the southwest end of the valley opens up into grassy plains at City of Rocks State Park and Faywood Hot Springs.

The valley was once inhabited by the ancient Mimbres Culture, living in small clusters of pithouses and multiroomed pueblos from about A.D. 200 until around A.D.1150. Although the Mimbres Indians never

LOCATION

The Mimbres Valley stretches from City of Rocks State Park north along NM61 and NM35 to the Continental Divide near Lake Roberts.

TOUR ROUTE

From Deming, travel northwest 23 miles on US180, turning northeast on NM61.

From Silver City, travel nine miles east on US180 and turning onto NM152, travel another 12 miles east past the Santa Rita Copper Mine.

MORE INFORMATION

Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce (575) 538-3785 1(800) 548-9378 www.silvercity.org

OW26

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com

1-800-290-8330

developed significant architectural practices, they produced quantities of painted pottery that set them aside from other Southwest cultures. Their sophisticated patterns included elaborate geometric designs, animal representations and anthropomorphic creations that can be admired in museums in Silver City, Deming, Las Cruces and Truth or Consequences.

The Trail of the Mountain Sprits National Scenic Byway makes a dramatic entry into the Mimbres Valley on NM152 from Santa Clara and Silver City and The Geronimo Trail National Scenic Byway enters the valley, also on NM152, from Hillsboro and Truth or Consequences.

Ride Forever and Enjoy Ranch Living

• 42-acre and up tracts • Fabulous views • All underground utilities • Minimum road impact • Habitat and erosion protection • Year round living in 4 gentle seasons • Eco-friendly community • Endless miles of riding and hiking • Prices starting at $2,500. per acre. Owner financing on selected tracts.

www.MimbresMountainRanch.com Contact: Tim Donovan, Associate Broker Mimbres Branch Office 3516 N. Hwy. 35 • Mimbres, NM 88049

575.536.3870 office • 575.534.7955 cell tim@smithrealestate.com Broker Owned

OLD WEST COUNTRY MIMBRES VALLEY

OW27

LORDSBURG HIDALGO COUNTY

or a genuine glimpse of the Old West, Lordsburg and Hidalgo County put time in reverse. Artifacts displayed at the Lordsburg Hidalgo Museum breathe life back into the area’s ghost towns and highlight its mining, railroad, ranching and farming heritage. Historic moments include the day Charles Lindbergh landed on his famous cross-country flight.

A couple of miles away, but over a hundred years up the road, the ghost town of Shakespeare boldly hangs onto its rip-roaring past. A mining camp and stage stop on the Butterfield Trail, some of the fiercest outlaws in the Old West once passed the time there drinking and shooting flies off walls.

Southwest of Lordsburg, the arts village of Rodeo showcases the work of local artisans, this page: Shakespeare Ghost Town by including noted painter and sculptor, Roger McKasson. Visit McKasson’s Studio/Gallery in Lordsburg is an old Butterfield stage stop Rodeo and the Chiricahua Guild and Art Gallery in the old mission church. The Newly (check for schedules). inset: The Chiricahua opened Chiricahua Desert Museum features live reptile exhibits, art, artifacts and Native Mountains, accessed from Rodeo, offer American jewelry, as well as their own ECO herpetological books and ECO Wear clothing. excellent camping, Declared an “outstanding natural area for birding habitat,” Guadalupe Canyon in the hiking and birding opportunities.

Southwest corner of Hidalgo County and Cave Creek, in the Chiricahua Mountains just west of Rodeo, are species found nowhere else in the United States. Hiking, camping and photo opportunities are abundant, as well as some of the darkest, most stable night skies for stargazing in the country. There are RV and Bed and breakfast facilities in Rodeo.

North of Lordsburg, the Lower Gila Box Wilderness Study Area provides access to some 170 species of birds, petroglyphs and additional photo opportunities.

F

ATTRACTIONS

Lordsburg Hidalgo Museum. This Old West museum documents the early history in which the nearby ghost towns took root. 710 E 2nd St. Open M-F 1-3 PM. 575-542-9086.

Gila National Forest. Almost one fourth of the 3.3 million acre forest is in wilderness.

Largest of these is the 438,360 acre Gila Wilderness, set aside in 1924 as the first such area in the United States.

Rodeo. On the NM-AZ border in southern Hidalgo Co., Rodeo offers facilities for travelers. The area is becoming a small art

OW28

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

center with the Chiricahua Guild & Gallery located in an old Mission Church, the StudioGallery of internationally renowned artist and sculptor Roger McKasson, and the new Chiricahua Desert Museum with live reptile displays, a gift shop and gallery.

Portal and Cave Creek. This famous birding area is the only place in North America that you can see Olive Warblers, Red-faced Warblers, and Mexican Chickadees. Portal also has a wide variety of hummingbird species. Portal offers lodging and food.

Redrock Wildlife Area. Located on the Gila River and is operated by the NM Game & Fish Dept. All animals areprotected within the refuge even during hunting seasons. The main project at the reserve is the breeding and growth of the Desert Big-Horn Sheep.

Shakespeare Ghost Town. 2.5 miles southwest of Lordsburg. Open monthly for guided tours. Call for schedule.

575-542-9034 www.shakespeareghostown.com Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness.

Ragged and rugged, the historic Butterfield Stage Route forms the southern boundary.

HIDALGO COUNTY EVENTS Cowboy Poetry Fiesta 575-542-9864 July 4th Activities. 5K Run, Lordsburg July 4th Activities; parade, BBQ, dance in Rodeo, NM Aug Hidalgo County Fair 575-542-9864 Aug 28-30 Tejano Fiesta 575-542-9864 Oct 17 Sister City Celebration at Antelope Wells Nov 7 Cowboy Hall of Fame Nov 14 Mixed Nuts Arts & Crafts Show, Rodeo, NM Dec 4 Annual Light Parade, Moonlight Madness 505-542-9864 Feb Jul

14 4

Contact the Lordsburg Hidalgo County Chamber of Commerce to check on events and dates, as changes may occur throughout the year. 575-542-9864 Fax: 575-542-9059. email: lordsburgcoc@aznex.net.

LOCATION Lordsburg is located at the junction of I-10, US70 and NM90 near the Butterfield Trail stage stop of Shakespeare.

TOUR

Travel west on I-10 to Steins ghost town and south on NM80 to the village of Rodeo and the Chiricahua Mountains. Return to Lordsburg and travel east 60 miles on I-10 to Deming.

MORE INFORMATION Greater Hidalgo Area Chamber of Commerce (575) 542-9864 www.GreaterHidalgoAreaCoC.com email: lordsburgcoc@aznex.net OLD WEST COUNTRY LORDSBURG

OW29

DEMING LUNA COUNTY eming and Luna County have bragging rights to mild weather and lots of sunshine. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy a list of activities that includes golf, hiking, rock hounding and birding. Even ducks here are physically fit.

Savvy gem and mineral collectors already know about Rockhound State Park, where visitors are encouraged to gather up to 15 pounds of mineral specimens for their own collections. The park offers a visitor center and a wide range of amenities for campers, hikers and birders as well as a botanical garden and our state parks system’s first native pollinator garden. Spring Canyon, a secluded day use area where the birding is said to be especially good, is practically adjacent this page: The Florida to Rockhound. Two other popular state parks nearby include historic Pancho Villa State Mountains, near Deming, Park near the Mexican border and City of Rocks, a short drive north. provide unusual rock formations and offer Back in Deming, tour New Mexico’s largest vineyards and premier wineries, enjoy a hiking opportunities at Spring Canyon State round of golf at the 18-hole Rio Mimbres Golf Course or take a swim at the Sam Baca Park. inset: The Native Garden at the Rockhound Aquatic Center. Low-impact aerobic activity is available on the trails in Voiers Park or State Park Visitor Center on a walking tour of a historic downtown district filled with excellent museums, galprovides an exercise in desert horticulture. leries, antique shops and friendly people.

Whatever time of year you visit Deming, be sure to return in August for the Great American Duck Race. A popular celebration for over a quarter of a century, this event pays cash purses for winning ducks and hosts activities that include a week of parades, outhouse races, contests, barbeques and social events.

You can also enjoy international shopping and dining just 31 miles south of Deming on NM 11. Here you’ll find the towns of Columbus, New Mexico USA and Puerto Palomas de Villa in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. RVers have long made Pancho Villa State Park at Columbus a destination for shaking off their wintertime blues. The park includes an intriguing education and visitor center. Palomas is always a bustling place where visitors discover a bonanza of bargains on handmade goods from all of Mexico. It also offers excellent dental and pharmaceutical facilities, as well as overnight accommodations.

D

ATTRACTIONS City of Rocks State Park. Rock formations formed over 34 million years ago during a volcanic eruption. Overnight campsites; visitor center; botanical garden; wildlife; hiking; and more.

Located 30 miles NW of Deming on US 180 and NM 61. 575-536-2800 Deming Luna Mimbres Museum. Minerals, gems, frontier military history and Mimbres exhibits. 301 S. Silver. 575-546-2382. www.DemingLunaMimbresMuseum.com Luna Rossa Winery.

575-544-1160. www.LunaRossaWinery.com

OW30

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

Rockhound State Park. Collect up to 15 lbs of rocks. The 250-acre park has picnic facilities; overnight camping; hiking trails; wildlife; and exhibits on local history of Buffalo Soldiers, Apache Indians and more. 14 miles southeast of Deming. 575-546-6182 Spring Canyon State Park. Realize a serene beauty and complete sense of isolation. Picnicking facilities. Ibex, wild goats from Iran, may be encountered.

575-546-6182 www.cityofdeming.org St. Clair Winery & Visitor Center.

575.546.1179 www.stclairvineyards.com

Pancho Villa State Park. Located on the site of old Camp Furlong where Villa raided the U.S. This 61-acre park offers a massive desert botanical garden, camping and museum/visitor center. 575-531-2711 U.S. and Mexico Port of Entry. 24-hour crossing Columbus / Palomas. 3 miles south of Columbus. 575-531-2686 Publisher’s Note: Documents are required for returning to the United States. Check with U.S. Customs before leaving the U.S. All items purchased in Mexico must be declared when returning to the U.S. and Mexican law strictly forbids carrying guns or ammunition into Mexico.

Holiday Inn - Deming • • • •

Stretch-out and relax in the largest and nicest courtyard in town.

Cool off in our new outdoor swimming pool Suites with large jacuzzi tubs High-speed Internet access Exterior room entrances • Pets stay free

Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill Kick-back and enjoy great food and your favorite cocktails.

Three TVs to watch the game on Serving popular beers & cocktails

Located off I-10 @ Exit 85 4600 E. Pine St. • Deming, NM 88030 575.546.2661 • www.HolidayInn.com

LUNA COUNTY EVENTS Camp Furlong Days at Pancho Villa State Park in Columbus. 575-531-2711 Raid Day Commemorative in Columbus. 866-397-2406 Mar 12-15 Rockhound Roundup. 575-544-1013 May 22-24 Bluegrass Festival at Rockhound State Park. 575-546-6182 Aug 27-30 Great American Duck Race.

888-345-1125 Dec 5 Christmas Light Parade in downtown Deming. 575-546-2674 Dec 12 Holiday Lights at Rockhound State Park.

575-546-6182 Mar 7 Mar 9

LOCATION

Deming is located at the junction of Interstate 10, US180 and NM11, next to Rockhound State Park and 34 miles north of the U.S. border with Mexico.

TOUR ROUTE

From Deming, head south on NM11 for 31 miles to reach the historic village of Columbus, NM, and for international shopping and dining in Palomas, Mexico. Return to Deming on NM11 and travel east on I-10 for 59 miles to Las Cruces.

MORE INFORMATION

Deming Luna County Chamber of Commerce (575) 546-2674 or (800) 848-4955 www.demingchamber.com info@demingchamber.com

OLD WEST COUNTRY DEMING

OW31

ld West Country encompasses a number of climate zones and therefore attracts a wide variety of bird species. The Rio Grande valley and associated marshlands provide for huge numbers of migratory waterfowl and late fall spectacles, while the mountain regions witness smaller, more specific seasonal movements. Desert locales are more active for a variety of raptors and even burrowing species. Whatever your level of experience or the lengths of your lists, birding has become increasingly popular, and Old West Country is an outstanding area in which to enjoy it.

Some Old West Country residents are able to observe more than a hundred species of birds without leaving home. Visitors, of course, increase their success rate when the local population points out the most likely locations. For those just beginthis page: The perch of a lone hawk offers excellent ning the quest for identifying birds, as with any new activity, success is viewing for possible prey important to maintaining interest. (and of migrating birds Old West Trails has compiled a list of popular birding locations and and photographers) at Bosque del Apache Nat- the species known to drop in from time to time. Some of the locaional Wildlife Refuge. tions are also known for their scenic beauty; others may seem unlikely but are nonetheless areas preferred by a number of our feathered friends. Old West Country birding experts have verified all locations.

By combining information contained in this feature with other resources found on these pages, you can plan a birding adventure that also includes hiking, camping, horseback riding and a wealth of other activities that await you in Old West Country.

1. Hatch to Deming: NM 26 Raptor Route (Private Property. Bird from road only) F4 2. Mount View Cemetery. F4 3. Deming Water Treatment Area. F4 4. Spring Canyon Unit of Rock Hound State Park. F4 5. Pancho Villa State Park. G4 6. NM 9 between Hachita & Animas. G2 7. NM 338 South of Animas (Private Property. Bird from road only.) G1 8. Clanton Canyon. G1 9. State Line Road near Rodeo (Private Property. Bird from road only.) G1 10. Granite Gap. F1 11. Lordsburg Playa (Private Property. Bird from road only.) F1 12. Virden Bridge (Private Property. Bird from road only.) E1 13. Lower Gila Box. E1 14. Glenwood Fish Hatchery. C1 15. National Catwalk Recreation Area. C2 16. Mogollon (Private Property. Bird from road only.) C2 17. Willow Creek Campground. C2 18. Redrock Road (Private Property. Bird from road only.) E2 19. Burro Mountains: Forest Rd. 851. E2 20. Gila River Bird Habitat Area. E2 21. Gila River/Mogollon Creek Confluence. D2 22. Big Ditch Park. E3 23. Cherry Creek/McMillan Campgrounds. E3 24. Signal Peak Road. E3 25. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. D3 26. Lake Roberts Area. D3 27. TNC Mimbres Preserve. D3 28. Fort Bayard Historical District. E3 29. City of Rocks State Park. E3 30. Iron Creek Campground to Lower Gallinas Campground. E4 31. Emory Pass. E4 32. Kingston-Hillsboro Area (Private Property - Bird from road only). E4 33. Las Animas Creek (Private Property. Bird from road only.) D5 34. Percha Dam State Park. E5 35. Caballo Lake State Park & Caballo Dam.D5 36. Las Palomas Marsh. D5 37. Elephant Butte Lake State Park. D5 38. Springtime Campground. C5 39. Leasburg Dam State Park. E5 40. Dripping Springs Recreation Area. F6

O

BIRDING

Loca ions 41. Aguirre Springs National Recreation Area. F6 42. The Bosque del Apache. B6 43. Water Canyon. B5 44. Socorro Birding Site. B6

A

43

B 16

17 C

15 14

21 D

20 18 13 19

12

23 22

E

11

F

6

G

10 9

8 7

H Map compiled by the State Audobon.

1

OW32

OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330

2

3

4

5

6

7

ur LD WEST ToO try Coun

SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO

Reserve/Glenwood 1 Reserve (C2) 2 Quemado (A2) 3 Pie Town (A3) 4 Plains of San Agustin/Datil (B3-B4) 5 Glenwood (D1) 6 Glenwood Hatchery (D1) 7 The Catwalk (D1) 8 San Francisco Hot Springs (D1) 9 Mogollon (C1) 10 Snow Lake (C2) 11 Gila Wilderness (D2-D3) 12 Outer Loop (C1-D3) a Cooney’s Tomb (C1) b Clairmont (C1) c Frisco (C1)

e

i

g

Socorro 13 Very Large Array Telescopes (B4) 14 Magdalena/Kelly (B5) 15 Langmuir Lightning Res. Lab (B5) 16 Magdalena Ridge Observatory (B5) 17 Socorro Plaza Historic District (B6) 18 NM Tech/Mineral Museum (B6) 19 Quebradas Back Country Byway (A4) 20 Owl Cafe (B6) 21 Bosque del Apache Refuge (B6-C6 22 Sevilleta Nat’l. Wildlife Refuge (A5-6) 23 La Joya State Game Refuge (A6) d Ft. Craig National Historic Site (C5) e Riley (A5) f Rosedale (B4) g San Antonio (B5) h San Marcial (C5) i Historic Capitol Bar (B5)

f

c h

a n

o s

Silver City 24 Historic Downtown Silver City (E3) 25 Silver City Museum (E3) 26 WNMU Museum (E3) 27 Royal Scepter Mineral Museum (E3) 28 Pinos Altos (E3) 29 Santa Rita del Cobre Fort (E3) 30 Trail of Mtn. Spirits S. Byway (D3-E3) 31 Gila National Forest (C2-E4) 32 Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Mon. (D3) 33 Lake Roberts/Mimbres River (D3) 34 Mine Tours & Old Mines (E3) 35 Fort Bayard (E3) 36 City of Rocks State Park (E3) 37 Outer Loop Drive (C1-D3) j Fort Webster (E3) k Royal John (E4) l Fiero (E3) Truth or Consequences 38 T or C Hot Baths (D5) 39 Geronimo Springs Museum (D5) 40 Rio Grande (D5) 41 Elephant Butte Dam (D5) 42 Elephant Butte Lake St. Park (C5-D5) 43 Geronimo Trail Scenic Byway (C4-E4) 44 Monticello/Placita (C3) 45 Pecan & Candy Shop - Cuchillo (D4) 46 Cuchillo Bar & Museum (D5) 47 Winston (C4) 48 Chloride (C4) 49 Caballo Lake State Park (D5-E5) 50 Lake Valley Bk Ctry Byway (D4-E4) A Lake Valley (E4) 51 Hillsboro (E4) 52 Kingston (E4) m Gold Dust (D4) n Grafton (C4) o Pioneer Store Museum (D4) p Elephant Butte Dam q Percha Dam/Campground (E5) r Veterans Mem. Park/Museum (D5) s Engle (D5) Lordsburg 53 Steins Ghost Town (F1) 54 Shakespeare Ghost Town (F2) 55 Lordsburg Museum (F2) 56 Virden (E1) 57 Gila River (C3-E1) 58 Redrock State Wildlife Area (E1) 59 Gila National Forest (E2) 60 Cave Creek (G1) 61 Portal (G1) 62 Rodeo (G1) 63 Animas (G1) 64 Hatchita (G2) 65 Antelope Wells (H2) t Cloverdale (G1) u Granite Gap (G1)

d

b

m q

p

38 T or C hot baths 39 Geronimo Spr Museum 40 Rio Grande p Elephant Butte Dam r Veterans Memorial Park & Museum

k l j

A

y

v

66 67 68 69 w

u

Visitors Center Mimbres Museum Historic Walking Tour Golf Course Historic Luna County Courthouse

z

Old Mesilla x San Albino Church

t

Deming 66 Deming Visitors Center (F4) 67 Mimbres Museum (F4) 68 Historic Walking Tour (F4) 69 Golf Course (F4) 70 Rockhound State Park (F4) 71 Spring Canyon State Park (F4)

72 73 74 75 76 77 v

St. Clair Winery (F4) Geolapidary Museum (F4) Mimbres-Paquime Tour (E3-H2) Pancho Villa State Park (G4) Columbus/Museum (G4) Palomas (G4) Fort Cummings (F4)

w Historic Luna Co. Courthouse (F4) Las Cruces 78 Old Mesilla (F6) 79 NM Farm-Ranch Museum (F6) 80 Gadsden Museum (F6) 81 Branigan Cultural Center (F6)

82 83 84 85 86 87 88

New Mexico State University (F6) Natural History Museum (F6) Bataan Death March Memorial (F6) Dripping Springs (F6) Stahmann Farms (F6) White Sands MIssile Range Museum (F6) White Sands Nat’l. Monument (E7)

Visit www.oldwestcountry.com/birding map.html to view this map in electronic form

89 90 91 x y z

Ft. Selden State Monument (E5) Leasburg Dam State Park (E5) War Eagles Air Museum (G6) San Albino Church/Old Mesilla (F6) Aguirre Springs Nat. Recreation Area (F6) Chamberino (F6)

RESERVE

T OR C

LORDSBURG

Gila Cliff Dwellings

Organ Mountains

Mineral Hot Springs

Shakespeare

DEMING

Lake Roberts Rock Climbing Our Lady of Health Church The Catwalk/Glenwood Duck Races

DEMING

Elephant Butte Lake

SILVER CITY

LORDSBURG

LAS CRUCES

LAS CRUCES

SOCORRO

Golf Course

RESERVE

ELEPHANT BUTTE

Silver City Museum

DEMING

RESERVE

Farm & Ranch Museum

To have NEW EXPERIENCES...

Bosque del Apache

SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO

Elephant Butte Lake

OLD y r t WEST n Cou

Mogollon

SILVER CITY

Willow Creek

T OR C

SOCORRO

Deming • Las Cruces • Lordsburg • Reserve • Silver City • Socorro • Truth or Consequences

OLD WEST COUNTRY Southwest Region 2

P.O. Box 884 Silver City, NM 88062

1-800-290-8330 www.oldwestcountry.com e-mail: info@oldwestcountry.com

SOCORRO

LAS CRUCES

San Miguel Mission

SILVER CITY

Desert Bloom

DEMING

PRESRT STD US POSTAGE PAID Silver City, NM 88061 PERMIT No. 10