old west trails 2008-09
DESCRIPTION
Old West Trails. Deming, Las Cruces, Lordsburg, Silver City, Socorro, Truth or Consequences & Catron County, New Mexico.TRANSCRIPT
T R A I L ST R A I L S
www.oldwestcountry.com/familyfun Affordable vacations. See pages 1 and 25.
4 18 20
CONTENTS
THE COMMUNITIESUnique shopping experiences, the arts and fascinating museums are the anchors for Old West Country communitiesand the rapidly growing phenomenon of adventure tourismbegins at the edge of every town.
LUNA COUNTYHiking, rockhounding and international shoppingcombine with wine, fast ducks, friendly people andplenty of sunshine.OWT8 DEMING
DOÑA ANA COUNTYAn engaging historic plaza, a cavalry fort and milesof hiking trails along the river and into the jaggedmountains balance the area’s rapid growthOWT12 LAS CRUCES & MESILLA
SIERRA COUNTYThe home of New Mexico’s premier water sportsdestination is also an established center for naturalhot mineral baths and healing artsOWT16 TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCESOWT18 CITY OF ELEPHANT BUTTE
SOCORRO COUNTYThe spires of Spanish missions and headquartersfor deep space eavesdropping compete for attention with incredible wildlife refuges.OWT20 SOCORROOWT24 MAGDALENA
CATRON COUNTYLakes, streams, parts of three national forests, apicturesque ghost town and pack trip opportunitieshighlight this sparsely populated mountain region.OWT26 RESERVE, GLENWOOD,
DATIL & QUEMADO
GRANT COUNTYHistoric mining communities on the edge of vasttracks of forest and wilderness have becomehavens for both outdoor enthusiasts and the arts. OWT28 SILVER CITYOWT34 TRAIL OF THE MOUNTAIN SPIRITSOWT37 BAYARD
HIDALGO COUNTYOld West ghost towns represent the area’s mining,stagecoach and steam locomotive eras, and remotebirding opportunities are present.OWT38 LORDSBURG
FEATURES2 Old West Country
4 Great Outdoors
6 Regional Attractions
11 Relics & Realism. Forts, GhostTowns and Famous Buildings.
15 Historic Mining Towns
34 Trail of the Mountain SpiritsNational Scenic Byway
36 Heroes, Villains and Just Plain Folks
40 Birding Locations
41 Old West Country Map
OUR COVERWildflowers at City of Rocks State Park aretypical of the color that bursts forth through-out Old West Country following late summer“Monsoon” rains. Stark desert pastels can turninto brilliant floral displays, seeminglyovernight. Photo by Joe Burgess.
Published exclusively for Old West Country as a supplement to
New Mexico Traveler
Old West Country P.O. Box 884 • Silver City, NM 88062
1-800-290-8330Website: www.oldwestcountry.come-mail: [email protected]
President Andres GironCatron County Chamber of Commerce
Executive Director Keith LeMay
Serving the communities of: Deming
800 East Pine • Deming, NM 880311-800-848-4955
www.demingchamber.com e-mail: [email protected]
Las Cruces211 N. Water Street • Las Cruces, NM 88001
1-800-FIESTAS • 575-541-2444www.lascrucescvb.org • e-mail:
Lordsburg117 East 2nd Street • Lordsburg, NM 88045
575-542-9864www.GreaterHidalgoAreaCoC.com
ReserveP.O. Box 415 • Reserve, NM 87830
575-533-6116www.catroncounty.org
e-mail: [email protected]
Silver City201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061
1-800-548-9378www.silvercity.org
e-mail: [email protected]
SocorroP.O. Box Drawer K • Socorro, NM 87801
575-835-8927www.socorronm.gov
e-mail: [email protected]
MagdalenaP.O. Box 281 • Magdalena, NM 87825-0281
Voice 866-854-3217 www.magdalena-nm.com
e-mail: [email protected]
Truth or Consequenceswww.sierracountynewmexico.info
P.O. Box 31 • Truth or Consequences, NM 87901575-894-3536
www.truthorconsequencesnm.net e-mail: [email protected]
Elephant ButteP.O. Box 1355
Elephant Butte, NM 87935 (575) 744-4708
www.elephantbuttechamberofcommerce.come-mail:
Southwest Region 2Andres Giron Chair, Reserve
Eddie Khanbabian Vice Chair, DemingGeorge Pintar Secy/Treas, Las Cruces
Other Region Members: Susan LaFont Elephant Butte
Mike Trumbull Las CrucesSally Haigler Socorro
Keith LeMay Silver City
Old WestT R A I L S
Terri MengesPresident & Managing Director
Joseph BurgessVice President
Arlyn CooleyStaff Accountant
Terri MengesDebra SuttonDesigners
Lynn JanesLeAnne KnudsenAdvertising Sales
Joseph BurgessPhotography except where credited
Lynn JanesDebra SuttonKenny SuttonContributing Photographers
Keith LeMayDistribution
Old West Trails is asupplement to NewMexico Traveler and ismanufactured andprinted in the UnitedStates of America.©Zia Publishing Corp.All rights reserved.Reproduction in whole
or part without permis-sion of the publisher isprohibited. All submis-sions of editorial orphotography are onlyaccepted without riskto the publisher forloss or damage. Everyeffort was made toensure accuracy in theinformation provided.The publisher assumesno responsibility or lia-
bility for errors,changes or omissions.Old West Trails is published annually by Zia Publishing Corp. 116 McKinney RoadP.O. Box 1248 Silver City, NM 88062Phone: 575-388-4444 Fax: 575-534-3333 e-mail: [email protected]
OLD WEST COUNTRYSouthwest Region 2
P.O. Box 884Silver City, NM 880621-800-290-8330www.oldwestcountry.come-mail: [email protected]
Deming
Las Cruces
Lordsburg
Reserve
Silver City
Socorro
Truth or Consequences
OLDWESTOLD
WESTCountry
SOUTHWESTNEW MEXICOSOUTHWESTNEW MEXICO
Country
1. Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Mon. $3/person 2. Old Mesilla. Free
3. Elephant Butte Lake State Park. $5/car 4. Bosque del Apache Refuge. $3/car
5. City of Rocks State Park. $5/car 6. Very Large Array Telescopes. Free
7. The Catwalk Recreation Trail. $3/car 8. NM Farm & Ranch Museum. $5/$2 child
9. Deming Luna Mimbres Museum. Donations
10. Shakespeare Ghost Town. $4/$3 child
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A yucca, the New Mexicostate flower, is lighted by acamera flash during a latesummer evening drizzle onthe east side of the OrganMountains near Las Cruces.Spaniards referred to yuccasas candles of the desert.
Whatever your interest, you’ll find a special adventure
in Old West Country. Come and explore.
Old West CountryOld West Country
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 2
3OLD WEST COUNTRY
Diversity…cultural, scenic, historic, artistic, business, Southwest New Mexico deliversan experience that can fill volumes in your travel albums and business reports. Fromthe ancient prehistoric peoples who left behind a wealth of artistic creations to the siteof Spaceport America, Old West Country will challenge you, delight you, entertain youand provide you a thousand reasons to return.
El Camino Real International Heritage Center between Socorro and Truth orConsequences celebrates the trade route established by early Spanish colonizers andis the state’s most recent monument.
Apache skirmishes, confederate battles, famous outlaw incidents and hangings inthe name of justice set the stage for a region that continues to push the envelope.
The rugged canyons of the nation’s first designated wilderness area and New Mexico’s largest and most exciting water sports facilities are all found in Old WestCountry. National Scenic Byways invite you to tour by automobile and trails throughmillions of acres of national forest and BLM properties provide the opportunities tochallenge Mother Nature and the elements.
Forts, plazas, missions, visitor centers, centers for the arts and specialty shops arescattered throughout Southwest New Mexico and will make you feel more like part ofthe family than any other region in the country. Welcome to America’s Old West.
d West Countryd West Country
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 4
BIRDINGLate fall migratory birds provide spectacularbird watching and photo opportunities atBosque del Apache National Wildlife Refugenear Socorro. The Rio Grande and Gila Riversystems and all mountain regions are host toyear-round birding. Hummingbirds provide areal treat in warmer months in the Lake Robertsand Gila Cliff Dwelling areas. 575-388-8201
HIKINGApache, Cibola and Gila National Forest personnel maintain trail networks throughoutthe vast mountain region of Old West Country.Specific hiking areas include Aguirre SpringsNational Recreation Area at Las Cruces,Catwalk National Recreation Trail at Glenwoodand segments of the Continental Divide Trailaround Silver City. 575-388-8201
Great OutdoorsGreat OutdoorsRugged, high desertcanyons, common toevery region of OldWest Country, supportan abundance of plantand animal life andprovide the backdropsfor both artists andphotographers.
BIKINGMountain biking roads and trails are scattered throughout Old West Country,while the sanctioned Tour of the Gila 5-daybicycle stage race is held annually in SilverCity. Check with local visitors centers forrecommendations.
5OLD WEST COUNTRY / GREAT OUTDOORS
The diverse opportunities for creating awesomeoutdoor adventures in Old West Country will wrangle your imagination. Battling a trophy stripedbass on New Mexico’s largest warm-water lake or afeisty rainbow trout in a cold mountain stream willcertainly enhance your vision of the DesertSouthwest. Herds of grazing elk and clouds ofmigrating waterfowl can alter the horizon andpower up your production of adrenaline. Hikingtrails and biking trails traverse the entire region.
Rock climbers and mountain cyclists are drawnby rugged terrain, sparse populations and a near-perfect climate. Guides are ready to providewilderness horseback trips for riders of all experi-ence levels. Those who prefer touring by car canenjoy the old mining towns and mountain vistas ofthe area’s scenic byways.
Old West Country offers abundant opportunitiesfor birding and rockhounding. Hikers enjoy thesolitude of three national forests and two majorwilderness areas. State Park and Bureau of LandManagement 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 Butteis host to a full range of water sports including waterskiing, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, jet skiing and parasailing.
Southwest New Mexico’s cold, clear streams andmountain lakes provide the challenges that keepthe true sportsman returning for more. Hand orelectric-powered boats, only, are permitted atthese smaller, ‘no wake’ lakes.
t Outdoorst OutdoorsROCKHOUNDINGGem and mineral activity is foundthroughout southwest New Mexico.Specific points of interest include theMineral Museum at the New MexicoInstitute of Mining and Technology inSocorro, Rockhound State Park nearDeming and the Chino open pit coppermine near Silver City. 575-388-8201
FISHINGAmong the state’s major fishing waters areElephant Butte and Caballo Lakes on theRio Grande. Mountain lakes and streamsare scattered throughout the Gila andApache National Forests, including LakeRoberts, Bear Canyon Lake, Bill EvansLake, Snow Lake and Quemado Lake.http://www.state.nm.us/or 575-476-8000.
BOATING & WATERSPORTSWater skiing, scuba diving, jet skiing, sailing, parasailing and much more aretypical activities at Elephant Butte LakeState Park. At most of the smaller moun-tain lakes, only electric powered motor-boats are allowed.
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 6
clockwise from top, left: Buffalo Soldier sculpture can befound at Fort Seldon near Las Cruces and Fort Bayard nearSilver City. Rockhound State Park visitor center near Demingexplains the area’s abundance of collectable rocks. The GilaCliff Dwellings of the ancient Mogollon culture can beaccessed from Silver City, Deming or Truth or Consequences.Radio telescopes that combine to form the Very Large Array(VLA) between Socorro and Reserve help scientists map thesounds of the universe. Elephant Butte Lake at Truth orConsequences/Elephant Butte is the water sports capital ofNew Mexico. Metal walkways along the lower end of CatwalkNational Scenic Trail near Glenwood cling to the walls of anarrow canyon. The ghost town of Shakespeare just south ofLordsburg was a rowdy stage stop along the Butterfield Trail.background: Hanover church near Silver City.
RegionalAttract ions
7OLD WEST COUNTRY / AREA ATTRACTIONS
THE CATWALK RECREATION TRAILWalkways suspended from narrow canyon walls arethe beginnings of a trail that works its way into theGila Wilderness. The trailhead and picnic groundsbeneath large cottonwood and sycamore trees arefive miles east of US180 at Glenwood. 575-538-2801.
CITY OF ROCKS STATE PARKA city of giant monoliths protruding unexpectedlyfrom the desert floor is located halfway betweenSilver City and Deming, 5 miles east of US180. Thepark has a visitor center, hiking trails, and a night skyobservatory. Call for the observatory schedule. 575-536-2800. ELEPHANT BUTTE LAKE STATE PARKNew Mexico’s largest lake offers opportunities forboating, fishing, and swimming. Landlovers can findhiking trails, great birding, and year-round events.History buffs will love the views of the 1916 dam andhistoric district at Dam Site Recreation Area. 575-744-5421.
FORT SELDENAn 1800s cavalry fort that was utilized by the BuffaloSoldiers. A year-round visitor center and living history demonstrations on weekends Maythrough September. Nineteenth century militaryencampments second Saturdays monthly year-round. 575-526-8911GILA CLIFF DWELLINGS NAT’L MONUMENTFollow the “Trail of the Mountain Spirits NationalScenic Byway” north from Silver City along NM15 orNM35 to the national monument visitor center.Printed matter and a movie provide informationabout the 13th century inhabitants of this pristinearea. The Cliff Dwellings are accessible by a short,well-maintained trail. 575-536-9344.
NM FARM & RANCH HERITAGE MUSEUMA large and intriguing display of farm and ranchimplements from the early Anasazi to modern times.See live milking demonstrations and special presen-tations. 575-522-4100.
OLD MESILLAA picturesque and historic Mexican/Old West plazais surrounded by a stately church and 1800s build-ings filled with fabulous shopping and diningopportunities. Additional shopping plazas with acharm all their own are continuing to expand alongAvenida de Mesilla. 575-524-3262 THE RIO GRANDENew Mexico’s lifeline flows through the Old Westcommunities of Socorro, T or C and Las Cruces. Itcontributed water and food for early traders alongEl Camino Real and now supports industry, agricul-ture, recreation and individual needs for NewMexico’s central corridor. Visit the El Camino RealInt’.l Heritage Center off I-25 at exit 115.
ROCKHOUND STATE PARKRock specimens scattered across the slopes of theFlorida (Flor-eeda) Mountains simply offer a greatexcuse to explore the area. Rockhounds meet regularly in the area southeast of Deming fordemonstrations, sales and trading. 575-546-6782.
THE CIBOLA NATIONAL FORESTMagdalena Dist. made up of the largest collection ofhistoric ranchlands in New Mexico. 575-854-2281.
THE PLAINS OF SAN AGUSTINThe largest and highest grassland in North America,and watch for grazing antelope. 866-854-3217.
VETERANS MEMORIALA permanent Vietnam Memorial Wall has beenerected in Truth or Consequences to honor thosewho gave their lives for their country. 575-894-6600.
VERY LARGE ARRAY RADIO “TELESCOPE”Twenty-seven dish-shaped antennas are spreadacross three 13-mile tracks, one of which crossesUS60 between Socorro and Reserve. A visitor centerexplains the mission of the project sponsored by theNational Radio Astronomy Observatory. 575-388-8201.
ct ions
The stunning geology of Southwest New Mexico presents not only a widegamut of scenic vistas, but also the elements for an intriguing array of humanland use. Craggy peaks thrusting up from the historic Rio Grande Valley andthe high Plains of San Agustin, home of the incredible Very Large Array RadioTelescopes, are among the Old West treasures offered residents and visitorsalike. Parasailing on New Mexico’s largest lake or photographing elk grazingon a pristine Alpine meadow are merely the enticements to a land of contin-uous adventure.
Early people of the region lived in pit houses and cliff dwellings that can beexperienced at the Gila Cliff Dwellings, a national monument surrounded onthree sides by the country’s first designated wilderness. The unique potteryof the nearby Mimbres culture can be witnessed in the museums of SilverCity, Deming, Las Cruces and Truth or Consequences. Spanish entry into thearea is chronicled at the Camino Real International Heritage Center betweenSocorro and Truth or Consequences. Wild West episodes still unfold in min-ing and railroad ghost towns, plazas and a collection of forts scattered acrossthe entire area.
The monoliths at City of Rocks State Park stand proud while the staggeringSanta 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 andsouth by interstate highways paralleling the strategic El Camino Real andButterfield Trails.
A national recreation trail at The Catwalk and a park specifically for rockhounds near Deming contribute to the endless opportunities of Old WestCountry. Make any Old West highway your destination byway.
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 8
Sunshine and mild weather are the big draw for Deming and Luna County. Outdoorenthusiasts will enjoy a list of activities that includes golf, hiking, rockhounding and birding. Even the ducks are athletically inclined.
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 nativepollinator garden. An adjacent unit of Rockhound State Park is Spring Canyon, a secludedday use area where the birding is said to be especially good. Two other state parks are alsoclose to town – historic Pancho Villa State Park near Mexico and the fabulous City of Rocksa short drive to the north.
Back in Deming, enjoy a round of golf at the 18-hole Rio Mimbres Golf Course or takea swim at the Sam Baca Aquatic Center. Tour one of New Mexico’s vineyards and wineries.Low-impact aerobic activity is available at the trails in Voiers Pit Park or on a walking tourof a historic downtown district filled with excellent museums, galleries, antique shops andfriendly people.
center: City of Rocks State Parknorth of Deming consists of a clusterof large monoliths with pathwayswinding between the boulders,picnic sites, a desert botanicalgarden and visitor center. inset: Thehistoric Luna County Courthouseand the surrounding groundsbecome the venue for fiestas, artshows and performances.
DEMING / LUNA COUNTY
ATTRACTIONSCity of Rocks State Park. Rock formationsformed over 34 million years ago during avolcanic eruption. Overnight campsites; visi-tor center; botanical garden; wildlife; hiking;and more. Located 30 miles NW of Demingon US 180 and NM 61. 575-536-2800Deming Luna Mimbres Museum.Minerals, gems, frontier military history andMimbres exhibits. 301 S. Silver. 575-546-2382. www.cityofdeming.orgLuna Rossa Winery.575-544-1160. www.LunaRossaWinery.com
Rockhound State Park. Collect up to 15 lbs of rocks. The 250-acre park haspicnic facilities; overnight camping; hiking trails; wildlife; and exhibits on local history of Buffalo Soldiers, ApacheIndians and more. 14 miles southeast of Deming. 575-546-6182Spring Canyon State Park. Realize aserene beauty and complete sense of isolation. Picnicking facilities. Ibex, wildgoats originally shipped from Iran, may be encountered. www.cityofdeming.org
St. Clair Winery & Visitor Center.575.546.1179 www.stclairvineyards.comPancho Villa State Park. Located on thesite of old Camp Furlong where Villa raidedthe U.S. This 49-acre park offers a massivedesert botanical garden, camping andmuseum/visitor center. 575-531-2711U.S. and Mexico Port of Entry. 24-hourcrossing Columbus / Palomas. 3 miles south of Columbus. 575-531-2686
9OLD WEST COUNTRY / DEMING
LUNA COUNTY AND PALOMAS, MEXICO EVENTS
Mar 8 Raid Day Commemorative in Columbus. 866-397-2406
Mar 10-11 Rockhound Roundup. 575-544-1013May 5 Cinco de MayoMay 23-24 Bluegrass Festival at Rockhound
State Park. 575-546-6182Jul 4 Fireworks and Entertainment at the
Deming Baseball Field. 575-546-2674 Aug 21-24 Great American Duck Race.
888-345-1125Aug 23 Hummingbird Festival at Rockhound
State Park. 575-546-6182Sep 24-28 Southwestern NM State Fair.
575-544-8561Oct 11-12 St. Clair Winery Festival. 575-546-5394Oct 12 Czechoslovakian Klobase Barbecue.
800-878-4955 Dec 6 Christmas Light Parade in downtown
Deming. 575-546-2674
LOCATION Deming is located at the junction of Interstate 10,US180 and NM11, next to Rockhound State Parkand 34 miles north of the U.S. border with Mexico.
TOUR ROUTE From Deming, head south on NM11 for 31 milesto reach the historic village of Columbus, NM, andfor international shopping and dining in Palomas,Mexico. Return to Deming on NM11 and traveleast on IH-10 for 59 miles to Las Cruces.
MORE INFORMATION Deming Luna County Chamber of Commerce 575-546-2674 or 800-848-4955www.demingchamber.com [email protected]
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 10
Whatever time of year you visitDeming, be sure to return in August forthe Great American Duck Race.A popular celebration for over a quarterof a century, this event pays cash pursesfor winning ducks and hosts activitiesthat include a week of parades, out-house races, contests, barbeques andsocial events.
You can also enjoy international shopping and dining just 31 miles southof Deming on NM 11. Here you’ll find thetowns of Columbus, New Mexico, USAand Puerto Palomas de Villa in the state ofChihuahua, Mexico. RVers have longmade Pancho Villa State Park atColumbus a destination for shaking offtheir wintertime blues. The park recentlyunveiled its new $1.3 million educationand visitor center. Palomas is always abustling place where visitors discover abonanza of bargains on handmade goodsfrom all of Mexico. It also offers excellentdental and pharmaceutical facilities, aswell as overnight accommodations.
Publisher’s Note: The laws are changing regarding documents required to return to the United States.Check with U.S. Customs before leaving the U.S. Allitems purchased in Mexico must be declared whenreturning to the U.S. and Mexican law strictly forbidscarrying guns or ammunition into Mexico.
above: The Columbus Museum houses railroadmemorabilia and highlights Pancho Villa’s raid onthe border community. The railroad station playedan important role in the subsequent punitive raidmounted by General “Blackjack” Pershing.
CENTURY 21 Deming Realty Co.Full service real estate office:residential property, multi-family, vacantland, commercial, farms and ranches and property management.
220 S. Gold • Deming, NM 88030575.546.8818www.c21drc.com
Lazy Lizard Bar and GrillRelax, unwind, and enjoy some awesomefood served by friendly local individuals. Enjoy an adult beverage and watch thegame on three TV’s.
4600 East Pine • Deming, NM 88030575.546.2661
Holiday Inn - DemingLargest and nicest courtyard in town witha new outdoor swimming pool. Suites withlarge Jacuzzi tubs and pets stay free.
4600 East PineDeming, NM 88030575.546.2661 • www.HolidayInn.com
La QuintaComplimentary Breakfast - Free Hi Speed24 Hour Front Desk ServicePool and Jacuzzi - Fitness CenterGuest Laundry Room
4300 E. Pine • Deming, NM 88030575.546.0600www.lq.com
Endless TrailsRetreat
Gallery- NM ArtistsFly In – Drive In Retreat. Nightly, Weekly +
575.642.3641 • 575.531.1018Awe88029.com
Dairy Queen- Great Food - Great Treats- Senior Discount - IceCream Cakes DQ Gift Cards AvailableCredit / Debit CardsAccepted
1414 E. Pine • Deming, NM 575.546.8201www.dq.com
SOMETHINGDIFFERENTSOMETHINGDIFFERENT
RE/MAXCountry Associates
Serving Luna County For All Real Estate Needs.
Outstanding Agents, Outstanding Results.
1410 South Columbus Rd., Suite BDeming, New Mexico 88030
575.544.4450www.countryassociatesnm.com
Luna Rossa WineryCome visit us and simply taste wine which display our passion and commitment to growing the finest grapes in the southwest.3710 W. Pine • Deming, NM 88030575.544.1160 1750 calle de Mercado • Mesilla, NM 88046575.526.2484www.LunaRossaWinery.com
11OLD WEST COUNTRY / FORTS & GHOST TOWNS
FORTS, GHOST TOWNS & FAMOUS BUILDINGS OF OLD WEST COUNTRY
Old West Country is indeed the authentic Old West, the real thing. Visitors discover thathistoric 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 orConsequences to Silver City. Buildings still stand that were inhabited by Old West bad boyslike Billy the Kid and the Clantons. Mining and railroad ghost towns throughout the area offerthe unique and almost eerie feeling of meeting up with the spirit of a wronged gunfighter ordance hall girl. Even the dwelling of cultures that predated the arrival of the Spanish coloniz-ers by centuries have been preserved. The wide swaths of trails used for the movement ofSpanish and Mexican supplies between Mexico City and Santa Fe as well as the westwardmovement of American wagon trains can still be seen across desert landscapes.
The publishers of Old West Trails encourage visitors to research specific sites and thenenjoy an authentic adventure back across time. Obtaining directions, road conditions
and other information locally is advised. Verify the property status of thearea you wish to visit and always respect the rights of private
property owners.
The ghost town of Mogollon aboveGlenwood was a tumultuous gold-mining community located in apicturesque canyon on the northernedge of America’s first designatedwilderness area.
fortsDOÑA ANA COUNTYFort Selden. A State Monument.
GRANT COUNTYFort Bayard. On the NationalRegister of Historic Places.Santa Rita del Cobre Fort. A repli-ca of Fort Webster.
LUNA COUNTYFort Cummings Ruins. Maintainedby the Bureau of Land Management(BLM).
SOCORRO COUNTYFort Craig. A BLM Special Management area on the NationalRegister of Historic Places.
ghost townsCATRON COUNTYClairmont.Mogollon. Lightly populated.
Doña Ana CountyDripping Springs.
HIDALGO COUNTYShakespeare. 575-542-9034Steins. May be closed, call 575-542-9864 or 575-542-8149
SIERRA COUNTYChloride. Population 11. Cuchillo.Kingston.Hillsboro.Lake Valley. Operated by BLM.
SOCORRO COUNTYKelly. Obtain visitor’s pass at the rock shop.San Antonio. The Hilton section is south of the present town.
historicbuildingsDOÑA ANA COUNTYSan Albino Church.
GRANT COUNTYSilver City Museum.
LUNA COUNTYCustom House.Luna County Courthouse. On theNational Register of Historic Places.
SIERRA COUNTYThe Pioneer Store. On the StateList of Historic Buildings.
SOCORRO COUNTYThe Capitol Bar.
relics& realismrelics& realism
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 12
center: A Flamenco troupefrom Santa Fe performs inhistoric Mesilla Plaza. Yearround shopping and diningmake the location a popularregional destination. inset:The walls of Fort Seldonnorth of Las Cruces conjureimages of late 1800smilitary life.opposite: Aguirre SpringsNational Recreation Arealocated on the back side ofthe jagged Organ Mountainsprovides excellent hikingand picnic facilities for theLas Cruces Area.
LAS CRUCES & MESILLA / DONA ANA COUNTY
ATTRACTIONSBranigan Cultural Center & ArtMuseum. History exhibits, art and 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. EveryWednesday and Saturday from 8 am-12 noon. Local produce and crafts.Downtown Mall. 575-528-3276
Fort Selden. An 1800s cavalry fort thatwas utilized by the Buffalo Soldiers. Visitor center and living history demon-strations. 575-526-8911Leasburg Dam State Park. Fishing,campsites and swimming. 19 miles north-west of Las Cruces. 575-524-4068Mesilla Mercado. Local produce & crafts.Every Thursday & Sunday on MesillaPlaza. 575-524-3262New Mexico Farm & Ranch HeritageMuseum. 3000 years of New Mexico
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.comSan Albino Church. Mission church built1907. Old Mesilla Plaza. 575-526-9349St. Clair Winery. A variety of local wine. 1800 Avenida de Mesilla. 575-524-0390.
13OLD WEST COUNTRY / LAS CRUCES & MESILLA
DONA ANA COUNTY EVENTS Apr 18-22 14th Annual Border Book Festival. www.borderbookfestival.org
575-523-3988May 3-4 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta in Mesilla.
www.vivamesilla.org 575-524-3262 May 24-26 So. New Mexico Wine Festival. www.nmwine.com 575-522-1232Aug 30-31 Hatch Chile Festival. www.hatchchilefest.com 575-267-5050Sep 13-14 Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiesta in Mesilla.
www.vivamesilla.org 575-524-3262 Sep 26-28 The Whole Enchilada Fiesta. www.enchiladafiesta.com
575-526-1938 Oct 1-5 Southern New Mexico State Fair and Rodeo
www.snmstatefair.org 575-524-8602Oct 25-26 Dia de los Muertos at the Plaza www.vivamesilla.org 575-647-2369 Nov 1 Dia de los Muertos at the Plaza www.vivamesilla.org 575-647-2369 Nov 1-2 37th Ann. Renaissance Arts Faire. 575-523-6403 www.daarts.orgNov TBA International Mariachi Conference & Concert.
www.lascrucesmariachi.org 575-525-1735Dec 24 Christmas Carols & Luminarias on the Plaza in Mesilla.
www.vivamesilla.org 575-647-2639
LOCATION Las Cruces and Old Mesilla straddle the Rio Grande at the junction of Interstate Highways 10 and 25, 46 miles north of the El Paso/Juarez international metroplex.
TOUR ROUTE Mesilla borders Las Cruces on the southwest side of IH-10. Travel east on IH-10 and exit north on IH-25 for 75 miles to Truth or Consequences.
MORE INFORMATION Las Cruces Convention and Visitors Bureau 800-343-7827 or 575-541-2444www.lascrucescvb.org
Rated among the nation’s top communities for business andretirement, Las Cruces is surging into the third millennium withits sights set on keeping pace with the rapid growth of WhiteSands Missile Range and Fort Bliss, Texas, and the plans forSpaceport America.
For the traveler and the potential retiree, a host of opportunitiesincludes numerous historic sites, unique museums, galleries, anature park and a restored downtown main street area.Unfolding across the fertile Mesilla Valley for the past century,New Mexico’s City of the Crosses now claims four excellent golfcourses with another on the way. A paved bicycle and walkingpath stretches for miles along the river and scenic hiking trailsare maintained on both sides of the Organ Mountains.
Just upstream and over the mountains are cavalry forts, ghosttowns, lakes and national monuments. History buffs will enjoyFort Selden State Monument and visitor center just north of
World-class shopping anddining in the very buildingsthat kindled 150 years ofvibrant Southwest history.Photograph a stunningplaza where the GadsdenPurchase was ratified,buildings that served theConfederate Army and theButterfield Stage, and thecourthouse where Billy theKid was tried for murder.Take a self-guided tour, visitour museum, hike the riveror bicycle through thepecan orchards on ElC a m i n o R e a l S c e n i cByway. You’ll barely makea dent in one day, so planto spend the night at ourboutique hotel or old westbed & breakfast.
MesillaEXPERIENCEtoday!
The J. Paul TaylorVisitor Center
575.524.3262www.oldmesilla.org
Town of Mesilla • P.O. Box 10Mesilla, NM 88046
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Humane Society of Southwestern New Mexico
"Bringing the CommunityTogether for the Animals"
575.521.3642www.hssnm.org
Casa Del Sol
"Skilled Nursing &Rehabilitation in Las Cruces"
575.522.0404 or 575.202.6727
Uno Chicago Grill
Voted #1 Pizza Nationwide
Voted #1 Happy Hour in Las Cruces
2102 Telshor Court Las Cruces, NM575.522.8866www.unos.com
Josefina’s Old GateIn the Heart of Old Mesilla.• Light breakfast and lunch • Outdoor
Patio • Beautiful Courtyard• Bridesmaid Luncheons • Wedding
and Baby Showers • Tea Parties
575.525.26202261 Calle de GuadalupeMesilla, NMwww.josefinasoldgate.com
Renew body and spirit at thispeaceful adobe style Inn,located at the foot of theOrgan Mountains. A fullyaccessible facility ideal forpersonal getaways, smallretreats and family gatherings.
Anita L. McLeod
10201 Starfly RoadLas Cruces, NM 575.522.3035866.298.1935www.dreamcatcherinn.com
Space Murals Inc.Museum & Gift ShopWalk Through Space and AviationHistory. Space Artifacts AstronautGallery - Model Airplanes Space StationReplica + Lots MoreFree Admission - 7 days a WeekMon-Sat 9-5 - Sun 10-5
575.382.097712450 Hwy. 70 E.Las Cruces,NM
Las CrucesMesillaResourceDirectory
DreamCatcher InnBed & Breakfast de Las Cruces
Best WesternMission Inn• Free Full Breakfast
• Swimming Pool
• High Speed Internet
• Microwave and Refrigerator in rooms
• Largest rooms in town
• Free Access to local Racquetball and Health Club
• Blue Agave Restaurant and Hidden Forest Lounge on premises.
1765 South MainLas Cruces, NM 575.524.8591www.bestwestern.com
town, keeping the lingering spirits ofthis 1800s cavalry fort active. Adjacentcampsites are available at LeasburgDam State Park. And with the world’slargest international metropolis and hostto outstanding shopping, gambling anddining experiences located just 40 milesdown river, Las Cruces is truly the hubfor whatever your heart desires.
The jewel of the valley, Old Mesilla,offers an escape from daily stress to a real-life Old West setting. With a traditionalplaza surrounded by Spanish territorialarchitecture and the towers of San AlbinoChurch, the village provides excellentdining and one-of-a-kind shops and gal-leries. Originally serving El Camino Realtravelers, Mesilla became the regionalheadquarters for the ButterfieldOverland Mail and Stage Line, the sitefor the signing of the Gadsden Purchaseand a post for Confederate Troops. Thesaga of Billy the Kid includes Mesillawhere he escaped a scheduled hangingin 1881.
above: The elegantly restored Rio Grande Theatrewas built in 1926 and seats 422 people. The oldLas Cruces movie house is now utilized as aperforming arts center and serves as the anchorfor ongoing downtown renovations.
15OLD WEST COUNTRY / HISTORIC MINING TOWNS
below: old courthouse inHillsboro. right, left toright: Opera House inPinos Altos, undergroundmining operation nearHanover, Kelly Mine works,old ore car at Chloride,school house museum atLake Valley, assay office inKingston, ore loadingchutes in Mogollon.
MININGTOWNSMININGTOWNS
HistoricHistoric
A number of the towns that the mining industry built in its heyday remaintoday in Old West Country, but the ringing of double-jack hammers andthe roar of black powder are sounds that have faded from the foothills.Several of the towns are still lightly inhabited, have become repopulatedor are presently managed by government agencies. All of them played arole in creating the wealth of Old West Country and the nation.
The towns of Winston, Chloride, Lake Valley, Hillsboro and Kingston arehistoric mining towns forming an informative day trip from the Truth orConsequences area. The mining villages of Pinos Altos and Fierro areaccessed from Silver City. The scenic
mining community of Mogollonis accessible fromGlenwood and Kelly isnear Magdalena.
CHLORIDE Mineral: Silver. The Pioneer Storehas been turned into a world-class museum,and the Monte Cristo Saloon is now anupscale gallery.
FIERRO Mineral: Copper, Iron and Zinc. Thefirst copper mine was established by aGerman immigrant in 1841. A small popula-tion remains today.
HILLSBORO Mineral: Gold. Post officeopened in 1879 and has never closed.Served as county seat for 54 years. Over 200residents remain in the picturesque village.
KINGSTON Mineral: Silver. Founded in1882, the population peaked at 7000.Remaining buildings include assay office,Percha Bank and Victorio Hotel.
LAKE VALLEY Mineral: Silver. Managed bythe Bureau of Land Management (BLM). TheBridal Chamber, a legendary large deposit ofalmost pure silver, was discovered here.
KELLY Mineral: Lead, Copper, Zinc and Silver. A small church, several ruins and foun-dations and remnants of the mine worksremain as testimony to the once-bustlingtown located just south of Magdalena.
MOGOLLON Mineral: Gold and Silver.Located on the northern edge of the GilaWilderness near Glenwood, its preciousmetal bullion was once hauled to Silver Cityby mule teams.
PINOS ALTOS Mineral: Gold. Named for thetall trees in the area. Village merchantsaccepted gold dust in trade well into the20th century.
WINSTON Mineral: Silver. Originally calledFairview, it was home to about 200 peoplewho preferred the quieter town over nearbyrambunctious Chloride.
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2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 16
Known as “America’s Most Affordable Spa Town,” Truth or Consequences has long been adestination for those seeking to rejuvenate their spirit in its hot mineral waters. The Hot SpringsHistoric Bathhouse and Commercial District sits atop one of the largest aquifers in NorthAmerica, producing over two million gallons of hot mineral water each day.
The town’s original name of Los Ojos Calientes de las Palomas has gone through some modifications over the years. Popularly referred to as Palomas Hot Springs, the name officiallybecame Hot Springs in 1914. In 1950, a promotional offer by Ralph Edwards of the radio and TVshow “Truth or Consequences” persuaded the town’s citizens to change its name.
The hot mineral springs continue to draw visitors from around the world. Today, ten spas andbathhouses offer soaks in these recuperative hot springs as well as a complete range of massageand other rejuvenating healing arts treatments for weary travelers.
It’s not just the hot springs that draw visitors to Truth or Consequences. A growing communityof artists has turned downtown storefronts into galleries, boutiques and second hand stores. Onthe second Saturday of every month, over 20 shops open their doors from 6-9 pm for the down-town gallery district Art Hop, where “hoppers” are taxied by a mule team driven wagon fromshop to shop.
TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES / SIERRA COUNTY
ATTRACTIONSBlack Range Ranger District.Camping, hiking, picnicking. 575-894-6677Caballo Lake State Park.Boat launch sites, campsites,picnicking and visitor center.575-743-3942
Elephant Butte Lake StatePark. Campsites, visitor center,water sports and trails. 575-744-5421Geronimo Springs Museum.Area history, pottery collec-tions and minerals. 211 Main St. 575-894-6600
Veteran's Memorial Park andViet Nam Memorial Wall.996 South Broadway, T or C.575-470-7111Truth or Consequences HotSprings. Indoor tubs, bathhouses and saunas. 575-894-6600www.spatown.com
17OLD WEST COUNTRY / TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES
opposite: Galleries, hot mineral baths andmuseums are great reasons to visit Truth orConsequences. Add the state’s top water sportfacilities at Elephant Butte to your agenda andfollow the Geronimo Trail to old mining campstucked into the Black Range mountains.
SIERRA COUNTY EVENTSMay 2-4 59th Annual Truth or Consequences
Fiesta. 575-894-6600Jul 5 Fireworks Display at Elephant Butte
Lake State Park 575-744-5923Sep 13-14 Elephant Butte Balloon Regatta,
575-744-5923Oct 10-12 Sierra County Fair, Sierra County
Fairgrounds, T or C 575-894-2375Oct 24-26 NM Old Time Fiddlers State
Championship Fiddle Contest,575-894-1002
Dec 13 Beachwalk Luminaria Festival and Floating Lights Parade of Boats Elephant Butte Lake State Park575-744-5923
For more information on the above events call theSierra County Visitor Center at 800-831-9487 orvisit www.sierracountynewmexico.info
LOCATIONTruth or Consequences sits between IH-25and the Rio Grande, atop hot springs gener-ously feeding local bathhouses and spas
TOUR ROUTE From Truth or Consequences, proceed fivemiles north to the City of Elephant Butte.
MORE INFORMATION Sierra County Visitors Information 575-894-6600www.sierracountynewmexico.infoTruth or Consequences/Sierra CountyChamber of Commerce 575-894-3536Elephant Butte Chamber of Commerce 575-744-4708www.elephantbuttechamberofcommerce.cominfo@elephantbuttechamberofcommerce.comGeronimo Trail National Scenic BywayVisitor’s Center 575-894-1968 or 1-800-831-9487
Natural wonders abound in the area.The birding in and around Truth orConsequences is renowned. Hiking,mountain biking, and water sports are all“adventure sports” that visitors canexperience in Truth or Consequencesand throughout Sierra County.
If history is what brings you to OldWest Country, the Geronimo SpringsMuseum and Geronimo Trail Visitors andInterpretive Center take visitors on an his-toric journey of the area. For an up closeand personal look at history, day trips tothe historic mining towns of Cuchillo,Winston, Chloride, Hillsboro andKingston offer visitors a step back in time.
RED HAVEN MOTELNostalgic / Best Value!1940’s service with free big city amenities!
605 N. Date St. - T or C, NM575.894.2964 www.RedHavenMotel.com
PELICAN SPAAffordable lodging with the mostprivate mineral baths in town!
306 S. Pershing - T or C, NM575.894.0055www.pelican-spa.com
SIERRA GRANDE LODGE & SPAA 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, NM575.894.6976
www.sierragrandelodge.com
COLDWELL BANKERTURTLE MOUNTAIN REALTYGretchen Campbell, Owner/[email protected] Bus. 575.744.4999 Fax
575.740.1487 Cell • 603 Main St. TorC, NM Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated.
LOS ARCOS - A Truth orConsequences Landmark. Steak - Lobster -Seafood - Cocktails. Early Bird Specials 5-7pm Every Night. Excellent Food &Service – in a Pleasantly DifferentAtmosphere. Banquet Rooms - OutdoorPatio - Package Liquor. Open Daily @ 5pm.
1400 N. Date - T or C, NM575.844.6200
Paid with City of Truth orConsequences lodgers tax fundsPaid with City of Truth orConsequences lodgers tax funds
BLACKSTONE HOTSPRINGSoffers the ultimate luxury lodging:
• Hotspring Mineral bath in your room• HBO, Showtime, XM Radio and free wireless internet• Continental kitchen (fridge, coffee maker, microwave)
Non-lodging guests can also use our hotspring spa.
410 Austin - T or C, NM - 575.894.0894 www.BlackstoneHotsprings.com
CELESTIAL CREATIONSThe Best of New Mexico Made!Art, Home Décor, Gourmet Foods,Gifts, Jewelry, Apparel & More!
220 N. Date T or C, NM575.894.7591 www.celestial-creations-nm.com
GERONIMO TRAILNATIONAL SCENICBYWAY – encompassessome of the most spectacularbeauty in the Southwest. Old mining towns, museums,art galleries and outdooractivities abound.211 Main St. - T or C, NM575.894.1968800.831.9487www.geronimotrail.com
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 18
Spread across a hillside overlooking New Mexico’s largest lake, the City of Elephant Butte is a growingresort and retirement community. It offers RV facilities, restaurants, hotels and motels, guide services,marinas and watercraft rentals. Each September it sponsors the Elephant Butte Balloon Regatta whichfeatures hot air balloons, skydivers and drag boats from across the country.
An exciting nighttime special event is the Beach Walk Luminaria Festival and Lighted Boat Parade heldannually at Christmas. The occasion dazzles the eye with thousands of luminarias lining a speciallydesigned path on the beach. Along the way, campfires, live music and food provided by local vendorswarm both body and soul. The celebration also includes a parade of illuminated boats, ending withprizes awarded for the most amusingly or elaborately decorated watercraft or RV.
Elephant Butte Lake is around forty miles long with nearly 200 miles of shoreline. It is the state’s premierwater sports destination, attracting almost a million visitors annually. The clean, sandy beaches are idealfor swimming and camping and the lake offers all manner of boating, water skiing, scuba diving, jet skiingand even parasailing. For anglers, the waters are stocked with many species of game fish, including walleye,white, black and largemouth bass; crappie and record-setting stripers.
Land-based recreational activities include hiking, birding and special events throughout the year.The Elephant Butte Lake State Park Visitor Center will interest rockhounds with its fossil and geologic
CITY OF ELEPHANT BUTTE / SIERRA COUNTY
19OLD WEST COUNTRY / ELEPHANT BUTTE
opposite: Elephant Butte Lake is New Mexico’slargest body of water and facilities support houseboats, fishing, water skiing, jet skis, camping and awhole lot more. above, top: The 44.6 lb. Stripercaught by Ron Campos with guide Frank Viloriowas the biggest fish caught in New Mexico in2007 above: Golf facilities rank among the top inthe state.
exhibits. Fans of engineering and historywill enjoy the story of the early 20thcentury construction of the dam thatcreated the lake, which is named for anextinct volcano that is now an islandlandmark in the reservoir.
LOCATION The City of Elephant Butte is located justoff IH-25, on the edge of New Mexico’slargest recreational lake.
TOUR Rejoin IH-25 and travel north 68 milespast Camino Real International HeritageCenter to Socorro.
MORE INFORMATIONElephant Butte Chamber of Commerce 575-744-4708
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LAND OF ENCHANTMENTFISHING ADVENTURESLet Pro fisherman Frank Vilorio guide you on New Mexico’slargest lake, Elephant Butte, for Stripers, White Bass,Catfish, Large Mouth Bass and Walleye. ElephantButte’s most experienced guide service.
313 Odessa / P.O. Box 1336 | Elephant Butte, NM 87935575.744.4346 | www.StripersNewMexico.com
ELEPHANT BUTTEINN AND SPA
"An Enchanting Retreat from the Ordinary"
• Lakeview Rooms • Full Service Spa & Salon• Golf & Spa Packages• Ivory Tusk Tavern & Restaurant• Conference Facilities• Free Wi-Fi • Complimentary Continental Breakfast• Heated Outdoor Pool (Seasonal)
401 Highway 195 | Elephant Butte, NM575.744.5431 | www.ElephantButteInn.com
COLDWELL BANKERDesert Lakes Realty
Serving The Real Estate Needs For All of Sierra County.For residential, commercial, multi-family, Farm, Ranch,vacant land or lots. Our agents will provide professional,courteous service.“ Exclusive agents for Sierra County’s newest subdivisions, situated on the east side of ElephantButte Lake. Features include excellent covenants andrestrictions plus panoramic views”.
509 Hwy; P.O. Box 1083 Elephant Butte, N.M. 87935575.744.4960 Office • 575.744.4999 Fax575.740.1487 Cell • www.ColdwellBanker.comwww.Realtor.com • www.GretchenCampbell.com
ELEPHANT BUTTECHAMBER OF COMMERCE“New Mexico’s Diamond in the Desert”
Elephant Butte is the premiere recreation destinationin the state of New Mexico. Nestled along the shores ofthe largest lake in the state, the city of Elephant Butteoffers year-round sunshine and a comfortable climate.
“Elephant Butte-Stay and Play!”
608 Highway 195 | Elephant Butte 575.744.4708 www.ElephantButteChamberOfCommerce.cominfo@elephantbuttechamberofcommerce.com
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 20
ATTRACTIONSBosque del Apache National WildlifeRefuge. Visitor center, auto tour, hiking andyear-round birding. 16 miles south ofSocorro. 575-838-2120. www.friendsofthebosque.org Cibola National Forest–Magdalena Dist.Made up of the largest collection of historicranchlands in New Mexico. 575-854-2281El Camino Real International HeritageCenter. 575-854-3600Mineralogical Museum. More than 9,500mineral specimens. Fossils. 575-835-5420.www.geoinfo.nmt.edu
NM Institute of Mining and Technology.801 Leroy Pl., on campus, 1-800-428-8324N.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 atomicbomb explosion. Open twice a year; the firstSaturday in April and Oct.. 575-479-6124The Boxcar Museum. Local history, arti-facts of Wild West, mining, cattle drives,circa 1885-1930. Located next to AT&SFRailroad Depot. 108 N. Main St. Magdalena 575-854-2261 www.magdalena-nm.comVery Large Array National RadioAstronomy Observatory. Visitor center, self-guided tours, world’s largest radio-tele-scope array on the Plains of San Agustin. 575-835-7000. www.nrao.ed
Touting a unique blend of history, nature and technology, Socorro is internationally renowned for itsSan Miguel Parish serving weary travelers on El Camino Real since 1615, the migratory bird facilities atBosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge and its immense role with the National Radio AstronomyObservatory. 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.
SOCORRO / SOCORRO COUNTY
21OLD WEST COUNTRY / SOCORRO
SOCORRO COUNTY EVENTSFeb 22-24 Battles of Socorro, Civil War
Re-enactment, 575-835-8927Jun 1-7 Socorro Springs Open Golf
Tournament, NM Tech Golf Course 575-835-5335 www.socorrospringsopen.com
Oct 1-4 14th Annual Enchanted Skies Star Party, NM Tech Observatory, 575-835-8927
Oct 10-11 6th Ann.Socorro Fest, Historic Plaza 575-835-8927 www.socorrofest.com
Nov 18-23 21th Annual Festival of the Cranes at Bosque del Apache Refuge, 575-835-8927www.friendsofthebosque.org/crane
For more information on any of the above eventsplease call the Socorro Visitor Center at 575-835-8927 or visit www.socorronm.gov
LOCATION Socorro is located at the junction of IH-25 andUS60, the rest stop for historic travelers andmigratory birds.
TOUR ROUTE Travel 27 miles west on US60 to Magdalena,the “Trail’s End.” before continuing past theVery Large Array to Datil and on to Quemadoon US60 or to Reserve on NM12 andGlenwood on US180.
MORE INFORMATIONSocorro Visitor Center 575-835-8927www.socorronm.gov
At the center of town, the plaza offersa relaxing venue for initiating youradventure and a little shopping for hardto please friends. A block away is thehistoric San Miguel church, a center ofactivity for centuries. A few blocks furtheris New Mexico Institute of Mining andTechnology. The campus includes amineral museum containing one of the
opposite, center: Socorro Plaza provides arelaxing centerpiece for the community’s shoppingand business district. opposite, inset: The golf courseon the campus of New Mexico Institute of Miningand Technology has been ranked in New Mexico’stop ten. above: The historic Val Verde Hotel andcourtyard preserve an era in Socorro history.
For Reservations Call:
800-4-Motel 6 or
(800-466-8356)
807 South US Highway 85 • Socorro, New Mexico 87801575-835-4300 • Fax: 575-835-3108
www.Motel6.com
A Unique Selection of Gifts for All Reasons & Seasons.• 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• ImportsMon.-Sat. 9am to 5:30pm
L E G A C Y
SOCORRO, NM
Betty HoustonREALTOR®, GRI, CRB
A HouseSold Word In Socorro. Whetherbuying or selling, please allow me to put myknowledge and experience to work for you.
Office: 575-835-1422Cell: [email protected]
575.835.2498116-118 Plaza, Socorro, NM
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 22
world’s finest mineral collections, arespected golf course and facilities for the National Radio AstronomyObservatory.
From Socorro, visitors can travel westthrough Magdalena, a historic mining, cat-tle and railroad town, before emergingonto the high Plains of San Agustin andthe Very Large Array Radio Telescope. Atthe visitor center, one learns how 27 hugeantenna dishes, each 82 feet in diametercan move along three intersecting stretch-es of track, each 13 miles in length andoperating as a single unit. VLA data fromdeep space is processed at the Socorrofacility as well as data recovered from theVery Long Baseline Array, a series of tenclusters of radio telescopes stretchingfrom the Virgin Islands to Hawaii.
Traveling south from Socorro and exit-ing at the village of San Antonio, the1880s site of the first Hilton Hotel, visitorscan work their way south to the Bosquedel Apache National Wildlife Refuge.Home to a variety of wildlife year-round,the 57,000-acre refuge is also a feedingand resting point for thousands of migra-tory birds comprising 377 identified
above: From facilities located in Socorro, theNational Radio Astronomy Observatory controlsthe Very Large Array of radio telescopes east ofSocorro and the Very Long Baseline Array spreadfrom the Virgin Islands to Hawaii. opposite:Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refugeprovides viewing facilities and feeding grounds forwave after wave of migrating birds in the late fall.
Buying Property? We’ll Show You the Way:From the initial search to settling into your new home, Coldwell Banker Middle Rio Grande Realty,has all the tools to show you the way home, so call us today, we’ll help make buying a home simple.
Middle Rio Grande Realty315 N. California St. • P.O. Box 888 • Socorro, NM 87801
575-835-0888 • 1-800-687-2615www.socorronmrealestate.com
Each office is independently owned & operated
Other Services We Offer:Home Warranty Programs • Coldwell Banker Mortgage
Call Toll Free: 1-877-246-4456 • Pre-Qualify and get Pre-Approved Today!
Fite Ranch Bed and Breakfast Offering sensational views of sunsets andwildlife, nestled east of the Rio Grande. Come experience the down-homehospitality of a working cattle ranch.
7 1⁄2 miles east of San Antonio, New Mexico on Highway 380.For reservations, please contact Linda Brown575-838-0958www.fiteranchbedandbreakfast.com
Jeanene Hall, GRIOwner/Broker505-507-3065
Don BrownAssociate Broker
Betsy SmithAssociate Broker
Norma MeeksAssociate Broker
Denise ShrumAssociate Broker
Denelda ChavezAssociate Broker
YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED COLDWELL BANKER OFFICEOur Professional and Experienced Staff Offering You 84 Years of Experience
The Very Large ArrayNational Radio Astronomy Observatory.
27 Radio TelescopesVisitor Center • Gift Shop
OPEN DAILY
52 Miles West of Socorro on Highway 60575.835.7410 • www.nrao.edu
23OLD WEST COUNTRY / SOCORRO
species, including bald eagles, snowgeese and sandhill cranes. Each year inlate autumn, people from around theworld come to watch the grand specta-cle as birds arrive at the shallow marsh-lands and depart again in huge flocksthat resemble clouds blocking the sun.One need not be a devoted birdingenthusiast to enjoy the occasion or thearea. Hikers appreciate the nature trails,one to nine miles in length, which offerfantastic opportunities for viewing andphotographing wildlife. A 12-mile autotour loop gives visitors an overview ofthe beauty of the place, and the BosqueNature Store, a bookstore and gift shop,is open all year.
History fans will want to travel another20 miles southward to visit the recentlycompleted El Camino Real InternationalHeritage Center and the nearby ruins ofFort Craig, one of the largest forts of theOld West era. The site also includes asmall museum.
Northeast of Socorro are the SalinasPueblo Missions National Monument,impressive remnants of Spanish colo-nization efforts.
Socorro is the hub for a number of otheroutdoor destinations and recreationalareas including Box Canyon, EscondidaLake Park, San Lorenzo Canyon, WaterCanyon Campground and the QuebradasBackcountry Scenic Byway.
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 24
The picturesque village of Magdalena, sitting on the high grassy plains that fan outbelow 10,800-foot South Baldy Peak, just minutes away from the drop-off into the Rio Grande Valley, has doggedly celebrated its ties to the arts and to the Old West.Serving the Alamo Navajo people and the descendants of cattle barons, railroadersand hard rock miners, the village has added a branch to its family tree that welcomesthe high tech participants of the Very Large Array.
Galleries and shops occupying historic buildings are part of the makeup of thissmall community. Local and non-local artwork and cowboy art can be found as wellas 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 SantaFe Railroad Depot serves as the Magdalena Village offices. The “good ole days” arerelived 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 extend-ed from the east in 1885 and the 125-mile “Stock Driveway” from the west. Usage ofthe cattle trail peaked in 1919 when 150,000 sheep and 21,000 cattle entered the stillintact Magdalena stockyards. The era was rich with the tales of pioneer families, mainstreet shoot-outs, John Wayne-style cattle drives and mining activities.
The nearby mining ghost town of Kelly was home to about 3000 people during itsprosperous late-1800s heyday. A small, whitewashed church, foundations, remnantsof mining activities and a graveyard are all that remain. A visitor permit is required.
Twenty miles to the west is the Very Large Array of radio telescopes. Operated bythe National Radio Astronomy Observatory, a visitor center explains the site’s role inmapping the universe.
MAGDALENA
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25OLD WEST COUNTRY / MAGDALENA
EVENTSFeb 2 2-4 pm Fashion Show featuring hand
made wearable art. 15-17 “You Might As Well Live!” Dorothy23-24 Parker’s witty, bittersweet & wildly funny
stories & poetry. Apr 19 Honor the Earth Reception. May 3 2nd Anniversary of Gallery Opening and
Student Art Show Awards.May 10 Spring Street FairJul 11-13 Old Timers Reunion, Rodeo, Pancake
Breakfast, Arts & Crafts, BBQ, Music and much more.
Aug 1 Mixed Media and ATC Show Reception. Aug 2 Artists’ Trading Cards Workshop.Sep 20 Fall Harvest Fair.Oct 24-26 “AN HOUR IN THE SUN”,
Modern Every woman's lyrical and satirical diary of Desire and the Survival Shuffle. (Tentative Selection)
Nov 1-2 “AN HOUR IN THE SUN”, Modern Every woman's lyrical & satirical diary ofDesire and the Survival Shuffle. (Tentative)
Dec 5-7 “A NEW YEAR IN LOST WIFE CREEK”.Set in 1930's/Depression-era New Mexico; reviewed as “Historic, hilarious, nostalgic...”
Dec 6 Holiday Art Exhibit Reception/Holiday Party.
Dec 5, 12, 19 Nights of Lights.
MORE INFORMATIONMagdalena Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 281, Magdalena, NM 87825 866-854-3217 www.magdalena-nm.comemail: [email protected]
opposite: The Kelly church built in the late 1800’sis still used today for special functions.
VacationsAffordable
VacationsAffordable
Did you know that a family of four (with children 8 and 16) can visit our top10 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. Thelatest study in December 2005 showed the average California couple spent$2227 for their 4-6 night vacation in Old West Country and the averageArizona couple spent $697. The bargain vacation!
We decided to contact our attractions and just see what a family of fourcould buy in our 120 attractions for about $20.00. The admissions to all of ourtop 10 attractions was $48.00 for the family of 4, $37.00 for a couple.
These attractions included the Gila Cliff Dwellings, Old Mesilla, ElephantButte Lake, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, City of Rocks StatePark, Very Large Array Radio Telescopes, The Catwalk, New Mexico Farmand Ranch Museum, Deming Luna Mimbres Museum and Shakespeare GhostTown. All for $48.
For $141.00 you’ve covered admission to every one of our 120 popularattractions, 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 WestCountry the total cost for each of the seven county-area's admission variesfrom $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 AttractionsTop 10 Attractions Family 2
of 4 Adults
1 Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Mon. $3 $3
2 Old Mesilla $0 $0
3 Elephant Butte Lake State Park $5 $5
4 Bosque del Apache Refuge $3 $3
5 City of Rocks State Park $5 $5
6 Very Large Array Telescopes $0 $0
7 The Catwalk Recreation Trail $3 $3
8 NM Farm & Ranch Museum $14 $10
9 Deming Luna Mimbres Museum $0 $0
10 Shakespeare Ghost Town $15 $8
TOTAL $48 $37
$3/person ages 18+. Hot Springs: Gila $3/person, $4/p w/camping,Wildwood Hot Springs $5/person and $10/p w/camping
Fees: $5 day use, annual $40 all parks; add $18 overnight camping, annual $180-$225 all parks
$3 per car load
Fees: $5 day use, annual $40 all parks; add $18 overnight camping,annual $180-$225 all parks
$3 p/car load for day use parking; no camping
Donations
Tours available; re-enactments
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 26
above: The view from BearwallowLookout north of Glenwoodincludes two states, two nationalforests and the nation’s firstdesignated wilderness area.opposite, inset: Only two logcabins and a corral remain of thegold prospecting ghost town ofClairmont. above: Wildlife of allsizes abounds in the vast nationalforests of Catron County.
Catron County is a sparsely populated land of forests, mountain lakes and hiking trails. Three nationalforests, including Gila, Apache and Cibola share borders within New Mexico’s largest county. Snow Lakeon the edge of the Gila Wilderness area and Quemado Lake just south of Quemado are excellent troutwaters where only electric boat motors are allowed. Snow Lake is accessed by well-maintained dirt roadsin the warmer months from either Glenwood or Reserve. Quemado Lake can be accessed from NM32that connects US60 to the north and NM12 to the south.
Glenwood on US 180 is the hub for the Catwalk National Recreation Trail and the ghost town ofMogollon. The Catwalk consists of a picnic area shaded by large cottonwood trees and an area of metalwalkways clinging to the bluffs of a narrow canyon. Originally water pipes for gold mining were toppedwith a walkway known as a “catwalk”. The trail continues deep into the Gila Wilderness for hearty hikersand horseback excursions. Fly fishing Whitewater Creek is both challenging and rewarding. TheGlenwood Ranger District alone maintains over 322 miles of hiking trails. Glenwood also has a state fishhatchery 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
RESERVE, GLENWOOD, DATIL & QUEMADOCATRON COUNTY
ATTRACTIONSAlma. Historic community 7 miles northof Glenwood.
The Catwalk. Trail over suspendedbridges in Whitewater Canyon 5 mileseast of Glenwood. 575-539-2711.
Clairmont. Ghost town 19 miles north-east of Glenwood. 575-533-6922
Cooney’s Tomb. Alma, 7 miles north ofGlenwood. Burial of soldiers killed in aconflict with Apaches.
Mogollon. Ghost town 13 miles northeastof Glenwood.Snow Lake. In the Gila National Forest.Camping and fishing. 47 miles northeastof Glenwood.Quemado Lake. Camping and fishing, 11 miles south of Quemado.Whitewater Canyon. 5 miles east ofGlenwood. 575-539-2711WS Cemetery. WS Ranch B & B, Alma, 7 miles north of Glenwood. 575-539-2513
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patient drive. A number of buildings stilloccupy the bottom of a picturesquenarrow canyon.
At the east end of Catron County,Datil Well National Recreation Area pro-vides campsites and hiking trails. NearbyEnchanted Tower attracts rock climbers.
Reserve, the county seat, is also thesite where a 19 year old, self-appointedlawman, Elfego Baca, endured a 33-hourshootout against incredible odds toresolve the abuse of local women.Several books have been written aboutthe incident and a monument will soonmark the spot..
EVENTSFeb 10 Glenwood Park Barrel Race and
Pot Blessing. 575-539-2321Mar 10 Dutch Oven Cook-Off in Glenwood
Park. 575-539-2321 Apr 24 Unveiling of the Elfego Baca statue
and dedication of the future Museum. Beginning at 11am
Jul TBA July 4th Celebration in Glenwood. 575-539-2711
Jul TBA July 4th Celebration in Quemado and Reserve. 575-533-6968
Jul TBA Frisco CowBelles’ Annual Western Art Auction, Dance and Barbeque in Glenwood. 575-539-2711
Jul 21 Luna Pioneer Days and Rodeo. 575-533-6968
Aug TBA Catron County Fair and Rodeo in Reserve. 575-533-6968
Sep 8 Pie Town Pie Festival. 575-772-2525Oct TBA Elfego Baca Festival in Reserve.
575-533-6968
LOCATION Datil is located at the junction of US60 andNM12. Quemado is 43 miles west of Datil onUS60, and Reserve is 67 miles southwest ofDatil on NM12. Optional scenic route NM32connects Quemado to NM12 toward Reserve.
TOUR From Reserve, proceed west on NM12 sevenmiles to US180 and turn south thirty miles toGlenwood and another 60 miles southeast toSilver City.
MORE INFORMATIONCatron County Chamber 575-533-6116www.catroncounty.org catron county
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Family Owned and Operated.• Restaurant • Fuel• Groceries • Ice• Video RentalsOpen 7 Days a Week. Restaurant Open Daily 6am to 3pmBreakfast 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)
Relax and enjoy vacationing at ourretreat in the heartof Glenwood.Surrounded by ruggedmountains and forests. Dish Network, Air Conditioning,Fantastic Views, Spacious Backyard.
PO Box 158, Glenwood, NM • 575.539.2581www.gilanet .com/whitewatermotel
Kenny Sutton,Licensed Contractor
• New Construction • Remodeling• Adobe Homes • Custom Homes
Glenwood, New Mexico 575.539.2584 • 505.469.1561
• Ranches • Farms
• Residential
• CommercialAn experienced teamfor all you Real Estate needs. Darrel Allred, Qualifying Broker • Misty Riegel, Associate Broker
PO Box 38, Glenwood, NM • 575.539.2711Fax : 575.539.2722 • www.realest ate4newmexico.com
In the heart of Reserve.
Gifts •Espresso CoffeeSoft & Dip Ice Cream
Elfego Baca Memorabilia. Hours: 7am to 9pm.
PO Box 595, Reserve, NM • 575.533.6488
Visit the Studio / Gallery
of Jose Andres Gironin Lower Frisco
(5 miles south of Reserve)
PO Box 545, Reserve, NM • 575.533.6968www.artegiron.com • email : [email protected]
Specializing inRecreational
and MountainVacation Home sites,
with utilities in a gated master planned community. Deed restricted, world class
hunting and fishing. Owner financing available.
PO Box 188, Reserve, NM • 575. 773.4590www.quemadolake.com • beverly@gilanet .com
Hunting, Fishing and lots of
outdoor enjoyment.Located nine miles
north of Reserve in theheart of elk country.
Shower, Laundry, Propane and Pull Though Spaces.
HC 62 Box 650 A , Reserve, NM • 575.533 .6166www.apachervpark.com
More than your typical convenience store.
• Fine Art and Jewelry• Crafts• Natural Foods• Eclectic-Diverse Selection
FINEST COFFEE FOR 100 MILES
PO Box 596Reserve, NM 87830
575.533.6538
Specializing in unrestrictedrural real estate and ranches
throughout western New Mexico.
2 Locations for Your Convenience:
7784A Hwy 60Datil, NM 87821
and1609 N. Gold Street
Silver City, NM 88061Call us Toll Free 866.857.9357
www.amerwestproperties.com
High Country Land Specialists.
The best New Mexico has to offer!Beautiful wooded land from 3 acreswith utilities to ranches of 140 acres.
Owner financing available. Call Today!
NE Corner of Highways 60 & 35.
PO Box 502Quemado, NM 87829
575. 773.4200888.812 .5830 toll freehitchingpost@gilanet .com
www.hitchingpost l and.com
Alma Store & Grill
Whitewater Motel
Tres Amigos Enterprises Inc.
Glenwood Realty Henry’s Corner
Jose Andres Giron
Quemado Land & Cattle Co.
Apache RV Park
Hitching Post Land Co. American West Properties Inc. Black Gold Emporium
Catron County Chamber of Commerce575 . 5 3 3 . 6 1 6 6 • www.Cat ronCounty.org
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 28
center: Old head framesrepresent an era of undergroundmining in Grant County. inset:Silver City’s gallery clusters offercolorful accents and a livelypresentation of the arts.opposite, top to bottom: Streetsculpture and murals contribute tothe appeal of Grant County’shistoric districts. The Silver CityMuseum occupies a Victorianhome built during the area’s firstmining boom. Silver City GrantCounty restaurants offer enticingreasons for exploring the region.
SILVER CITY / GRANT COUNTY
ATTRACTIONSBig Ditch Park. Park formed whenflood lowered Main St. 55 feet.
Fort Bayard. U.S. Infantry post builtin 1863. Housed Buffalo Soldiers.10 miles east of Silver City.
Gila National Forest/Silver CityRanger District. 3005 E. Caminodel Bosque. 575-388-8201.www.fs.fed.us/r3/gila
Kneeling Nun. Natural monolithresembling a praying nun. 15 mi. E. of Silver City at Santa Rita mine.
Mimbres Region Arts Council.Scheduled events held throughoutthe year. 575-758-7289. www.mimbre-sarts.org
Royal Scepter Mineral Museum.Rock shop, jewelry and gifts. 1805 Little Walnut. 575-538-9001.www.zianet.com/royal-scepter
San Vicente Art Walks. Self-guidedgallery and studio tour within walk-ing distance in downtown SilverCity. Call for map. 1-800-548-9378
Silver City Museum. Area history,Indian artifacts, mining exhibits andVictorian furnishings. 312 W. Broadway. 575-538-5921. www.silvercitymuseum.org
Western New Mexico UniversityMuseum. Local and natural historyincluding the Eisele Collection ofPrehistoric Southwestern Potteryand Artifacts, the world’s largestpermanent exhibit of Mimbres pot-tery. 1000 W. College. 575-538-6386. www.wnmu.edu/univ/museum.htm
Bill Evans Lake. Fishing and primitive camping, 12 miles south of Cliff.
Aldo Leopold Vista. Picnic andwilderness interpretive site, 6 miles north of Buckhorn.
Turkey Creek. Primitive trout stream northeast of Gila, NM.Gila Cliff Dwellings NationalMonument. Cliff dwelling ruins from the 13th century. 44 milesnorth of Silver City. 575-536-9461
There is strength in numbers, and a few of Silver City’s may shake up yourvacation or relocation plans. Consider the three million acres of forest andwilderness that cover the city’s back yard, crisscrossed by 1500 miles of trails, orthe 310 species of birds identified in the region. How about those 30 art galleriessaturated with a friendly, small town atmosphere? And you won’t find better yearround temperatures… 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 artwork?Can you handle working in your office knowing that mild, sun-drenched weath-er will be enticing you daily to escape to your favorite fishing streams and lakes,another round of golf or simply your backyard garden?
29OLD WEST COUNTRY / SILVER CITY
Lake Roberts. Camping, troutfishing, hummingbird banding, birding and stargazing. 28 milesnorth of Silver City. 575-536-3206
Lightfeather Hot Spring. NearGila Cliff Dwellings VisitorCenter. 30 minute walk includes2 river crossings. 575-536-9461
Trail of the Mountain SpiritsNational Scenic Byway. Loopsnorth on NM15 to Gila CliffDwellings Nat’l. Monument,
southeast on NM35, and weston NM152 and US180.Hearst Church. Seasonal muse-um and art gallery. Built in 1898with Hearst newspaper empiremoney. In Pinos Altos, 6 milesnorth of Silver City.Pinos Altos MelodramaTheater. Adjacent to theBuckhorn Saloon in the PinosAltos Opera House. Great fun!Original melodramas. Call forschedule. 575-388-3848
Mimbres RegionArts Council• Performance Series
Folk Series –September thru May
• Pickamania! September 13, 14
• Silver City Blues Festival-Memorial Day Weekend
• Weekend at the Galleries -Columbus Day Weekend
1201 Pope St., Silver City, NM
888.758.7289575.538.2505www.MimbresArts.org
United CountryMimbres Realty, Inc.“No One Knows theCountry Like We Do!
OPEN WEEKENDS2 Offices to Serve You
Main Office:2700 A Hwy. 180 E. Silver City505.538.3789 800.827.9198
Downtown Office:414 N. Bullard St.575.534.4616877.646.2737www.mimbresrealty.comwww.unitedcountry.com/silvercitynm
The Palace HotelCelebrating 106 Years
Located in the downtownhistoric district.Reminiscent of a small hotelin the European Tradition.
• Affordable Rates• 18 Rooms & Suites• Continental Breakfast
106 W. Broadway,Silver City, NM 88061
575.388.1811www.zianet.com/palacehotel
Georgia Bearup,Qualifying Broker/OwnerUnited Country Mimbres Realty2700 Hwy. 180 E., Silver City, NM575.538.3789800.827.9198cell – [email protected] ONE KNOWS THE COUNTRY LIKE WE DO!!
Lori Atwood,Associate BrokerUnited Country Mimbres Realty2700 Hwy 180 E., Silver City, NM575.538.3789cell – [email protected]
Gary Edwards,Associate BrokerUnited Country Mimbres Realty414 N. Bullard, in historicdowntown Silver Cityoffice – 575.534.4616toll free – 877-646-2737 cell – [email protected]“I am committed to make every transaction as smooth as possible.”
Penny Costello,Associate BrokerUnited Country Mimbres Realty414 N. Bullard, in historicdowntown Silver City575.534.4616877.646.2737cell – [email protected]“Professional Assistance Buying orSelling Real Estate. I'm on your side.”
Looking back, the Mogollon culturewas thriving in this area 800 years agoand the Mimbres people were creatingtheir unique pottery. Today, you candrive to the protected remains of theircivilization at the Gila Cliff DwellingsNational Monument or simply visit areamuseums to learn about this heartypeople who left behind a wealth ofingenious artwork. Centuries later, theApache chief, Geronimo was born nearthe headwaters of the Gila River and isrecognized by a monument erected atthe Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center.
In Silver City, bicycles rule with cyclistsenjoying designated rights of way incertain areas. Mountain bikers can tra-verse miles of forest trails or road bikerscan get really serious and participate inthe annual sanctioned Tour of the Gila5-day stage race through Silver City andsurrounding mountains roadways. Ahost of international participants keepthe competition keen.
For photographers, and we are allphotographers, it gets no better thanthe Trail of the Mountain Spirits
above: A variety of dining options, live music,extensive wine and beer lists and coffee bars capan intense day of shopping in Silver City’s historicdowntown district.
National Scenic Byway. Lakes andstreams, an 1800s gold mining camp,prehistoric dwellings, a mission church,a serene farming valley, major historicand current mining operations, a fortthat utilized the famed Buffalo Soldiersand scenic vistas encompassing therugged beauty of the nation’s firstwilderness provide the subject matterfor a whole album or a series of albums,if you return as often as I do.
There are over 20 designated birdingareas surrounding Silver City thatinclude a very diverse range of habitatconditions. The Lake Roberts area hostsan annual hummingbird festival andprovides banding demonstrations forthe 10 species that have been identifiedduring the warmer months.
Silver City itself consists of an intriguingcollection of Victorian homes and a his-toric business district that includesrestaurants and coffee shops, galleries,
Colleen StinarAssociate Broker
United Country Mimbres Realty414 N. Bullard, in historic
downtown Silver City575.534.4616
cell – [email protected]
colleensilvercityrealestate.comI will represent you with enthusiasm and honesty.
Sonya Terrazas,Associate Broker
United Country Mimbres Realty2700 Hwy. 180 E., Silver City, NM
575.538.3789cell – 575.313.7321
“Enthusiasm and Profound efforts to fulfillyour Real Estate ideas and goals.”
Shane Horcasitas,Associate Broker
United Country Mimbres Realty 414 N. Bullard, in historic
downtown Silver City575.534.4646
cell – [email protected]
www.mimbresrealty.com“Success should not be measured in numbers”
Coldwell BankerEnchantment RealtyWind Canyon EstatesLocated 5 miles west ofSilver City on Hwy. 180 W.bordering the Gila Natn’lForest, Wind Canyon Estatesboasts breath-taking views -some as far away as Arizona.10 acre parcels priced fromlow $80’s.
For all of your Real Estate needs call the “Enchantment Team”.
501 Silver Heights Blvd.Silver City, NM575.538.2931www.silvercity realestate.com
Cissy McAndrew,Associate Broker
United Country Mimbres Realty2700 Hwy. 180 E., Silver City, NM
575.538.1337800.827.9198
“Former Chamber of Commerce Director.Available 7 days a week!”
TimberlandConstruction Inc.Exclusive Designs.
Land/Home PackagesAvailable in Dos Griegos and Pine Ridge Subdivisions.
Nationally Backed HomeOwners Warranty is provided with eachnew home we build.
Silver City, NM575.313.5140888.217.7962ernie@timberlandconstruction.comwww.timberlandconstruction.com
Wagon Wheel Realty Inc.“The Team That Cares”Residential Sales – Land SalesInvestment Opportunities
Susan Turner, Broker
2105 Memory Lane Silver City, NM1.800.748.2978 • 575.388.2692
day spas,s p e c i a l t yshops andtwo highlyinformativem u s e u m s .W e s t e r nNew MexicoU n i v e r s i t yadds ani m p o r t a n tc u l t u r a l
dimension to the community as does anenergetic arts council.
Major events, in addition to the Tourof the Gila, include the renowned SilverCity Blues Festival, the Wild Wild WestPro Rodeo, Weekend at the Galleriesand the Red Paint PowWow.
Another important number for theadventuresome individual who is knownto exit the confines of interstate travel is800-548-9378. There is help for those stillcontemplating their vacation destinationor more importantly, the objectives forthe rest of their lives.top: The Birdman sculpture marks the libraryentrance on the campus of Western New MexicoUniversity in Silver City. above: Historic downtownart district.
Blue Dome Gallery575.534.8671bluedomegallery.com
Seedboat Gallery214 W. Yankie St.575.534.1136seedboatgallery.com
Lois Duffy Art211-C North Texas St.www.loisduffy.com
Yello on [email protected]
Elemental Arts575.590.7554www.gourdweb.com
G A L L E R I E S
Mountain Air Productions“Providing digital audio recordingand production services for theperforming arts.” Located in Historic DowntownSilver City. Serving clients worldwide
214-A West Yankie Street Silver City, NM575.313.1160www.mountainairstudio.com
Broadway & Bullard Merchant AssociationHistoric Broadway & Bullard Shopshave Art, Antiques & Much More. 104 W. Broadway • Silver City, NM575.388.1811
San Vicente ArtistsInvite You to View their Work in theGalleries & Special Events. PO Box 1911 • Silver City, NM575.534.4260• silvercityartists.org
Silver City Daily Press
Grant County's Only Local paper since 1935
300 West Market StreetSilver City, NM 88061 505.388.1576www.scdailypress.com
American WestProperties, Inc.We specialize in offering the FinestReal Estate in the Area, andfacilitating smooth-successfultransactions in Western New Mexico.2 Locations for Your Convenience:1609 N. Gold Street Silver City, NM 88061 and 7784A Hwy. 60 Datil, NM 87821
866.857-9357www.amerwestproperties.com
Silver CityMuseum Store
In the H.B. Ailman House.
Books and Regional Gifts.
Tuesday-Friday9:00 to 4:30
Saturday-Sunday10:00 to 4:00Closed Monday.
312 W. BroadwaySilver City, NM575.388.5721
silvercitymuseum.org
33OLD WEST COUNTRY / SILVER CITY
GRANT COUNTY EVENTS
Jan 19-20 Red Paint PowWow & Indian Market575-534-1379
Feb 9 Chocolate Fantasia 575-538-2505Apr 30-May 4 22st Annual Tour of the Gila
575-538-3785May 23-25 13th Annual Silver City Blues Fest
575-538-2505 www.mimbresarts.org
May 28-31 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 TBA Cliff, Gila and Grant County Fair. 575-538-3785
Oct TBA 9th Annual Pinos Altos October Fiesta. 575-538-5560
Oct 11-13 Weekend at the Galleries. 575-538-2505
Nov 29 18th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade. 575-534-1700
LOCATION Silver City is located at the junction ofUS180 and NM90, on the ContinentalDivide and the southern edge of the GilaNational Forest.
TOUR Travel east on US180 eleven miles past historic Fort Bayard to the Village of Bayard.
MORE INFORMATION Silver City Grant County Chamber ofCommerce 575-538-3785 1-800-548-9378 www.silvercity.orgMimbres Region Arts Council 575-538-25051-888-758-7289 www.mimbresarts.org
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 34
Traversing centuries of human activity and spectacular scenic vistas, The Trail of the Mountain SpiritsNational Scenic Byway provides a very full and diverse automobile day trip. Ancient dwellings, an 1800smining village, forts, lakes, streams, mission churches, and a mammoth copper mine will likely require follow-up trips for further exploration of specific sites.
From Silver City, drive north on NM15. Perched on the Continental Divide, the arts village of Pinos Altoshad a tumultuous beginning when gold was discovered nearby in 1859. The main street of the businessdistrict, with its saloon, opera house, and a replica of old Fort Cobre, remains reminiscent of that era.
NM 15 winds on through the three million acre Gila National Forest past vistas encompassing tworugged wilderness areas to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. A short hiking trail at the monument leads to the cliff dwellings of the Mogollon culture. A visitor center provides details of theseprehistoric 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 sandstonebluffs, pine forests, and campgrounds, these year-round attractions are of special interest to birders andanglers, with lodging and dining located nearby.
THE TRAIL OF THE MOUNTAIN SPIRITS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY
35OLD WEST COUNTRY / TRAIL OF THE MOUNTAIN SPIRITS
opposite: Lake Roberts, a mountain trout lake,highlights the Trail of the Mountain Spirits NationalScenic Byway. above: Seasonal wildflowers andscenic overlooks are scattered across the entirelength of the Byway that includes cliff dwellings, agold mining village, picturesque valleys, coppermining operations and forts.
Heading south, the byway descendsinto the Mimbres River farming valley.Built in the 1800s, the church at SanLorenzo is still in use today.
Turning westward on NM152, theroute leads back toward Silver City. Theopen pit copper mine at Santa Rita is aspectacular achievement of man.Because of its size, it is difficult to realizethat the tiny-looking ore trucks in the dis-tance are approximately three stories tall.
The last stop on the tour is historic FortBayard, a National Landmark, a NationalCemetery and state game preserve. TheMedal of Honor statue honors theBuffalo Soldiers once stationed there.
LOCATIONThe scenic byway loops north from Silver City and includes forest vistas, cliffdwellings, lakes, farmlands, historic villages,forts and mining operations.
TOURFrom Fort Bayard, take US180 westbound to return to Silver City, or proceed in theeastbound lanes to visit Bayard.
MORE INFORMATIONSilver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 575-538-3785 • 1-800-548-9378 www.silvercity.org
Wagon Wheel Realty Inc.
Spectacular 360 degreeviews in Rural MimbresValley – 5-100 acre tracts.
Susan Turner, Broker2105 Memory LaneSilver City, NM 800.748.2978575.388.2692
Mimbres Valley CafeAmerican/Mexicancuisine with JapaneseSpecial on Wednesday.
2964 Highway 35Mimbres, NM 88049
575.536.2857
Bear CreekMotel & CabinsThe ‘MUST STAY’ place.
Fabulously comfortable,
beautifully decorated 2 story
cabins w/maximum privacy.
Full amenities- linens, Sat. TV,
Wi-Fi Internet, kitchens,
fireplaces, bbq grills, private
balconies & porches. New
Jacuzzi Spa.
ThroughPinos Altosto Highway 15 & Main St.
575-388-4501 www.bearcreekcabins.com
Buckhorn Saloon and Opera HouseServing Fine Food & Wine.Steak • Seafood • Chicken BurgersSalads • Desserts • Saloon Opens3pm • Dinner 6-10pmClosed Sundays
575-538-99117 Miles North of Silver City on Highway 15 in Historic Pinos Altos.
Pinos Altos Orchards & Gift Shop
– Large Variety of Home- made Jams & Jellies
– Gift Baskets– Mexican Imports – Stained Glass Classes – Local Artists – Yard Art
#13 Placer StreetPinos Altos, NM 88053575.538.1270
Prudential Silver City PropertiesMimbres Branch OfficeRobin Thomas, Associate Broker2991 Hwy. 35 • Mimbres, New Mexico
Office575.536.2900Toll free 877.536.2908Cell 505.574.8798Free Wi-Fi Hotspotrobin@prudentialsilvercity.comwww.mimbresvalleyrealestate.com
Spirit Canyon Lodge & Cafe
Birding • Fishing • Hiking ForestTrails • Gila Cliff DwellingsHotsprings • Indian Ruins Cafe offers full menu and German specialities on Saturday.
684 Hwy. 35, Lake Roberts575.536.9459 www.spiritcanyon.com
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 36
The late 1800s and early 1900s comprised an era of armed confrontation among westward moving settlers and nomadic groupsof Native Americans, gunslingers who were either good guys or badguys depending on who they shot, cattlemen and local Mexican set-tlers and, even Mexican revolutionaries and U.S troops. It was trulythe Wild West at its most colorful (and deadly) stage.
Among the household names were Billy the Kid, Butch Cassidyand Elfego Baca. Billy was born in Silver City and first jailed inMesilla. Butch Cassidy sometimes worked as a ranch hand nearGlenwood and Elfego Baca shot it out with 80 Texas cowboys inwhat is now Reserve. Famous Native Americans of that era includ-ed Geronimo, Victorio, Mangas Coloradas and Cochise, all
acknowledged for their military prowess. Mexican revolutionaryPancho Villa invaded the United Statesat Columbus in 1916 and was chasedby General “Blackjack” Pershing.
Centuries before European explor-ers first reached the area, prehistoricNative American cultures farmed and
hunted along mountain streams,leaving behind their cliff dwellingsand a wealth of fascinating pottery.Once Spanish colonizers began trav-eling El Camino Real toward SantaFe, small villages supporting supply
trains and the spread of Catholicismbegan to develop along the Rio Grande,including Socorro with its centuries old mis-sion church. Later, when Mexico gainedautonomy, Mexican mining interests initiatedoperations in Santa Rita to supply copper tothe Mexican mint.
In the meantime, trappers, prospectorsand other explorers began appearing fromthe east coast. These forerunners of thewestward expansion of the United States
gave rise to Mesilla and Shakespeare andeventually to present day communities.
Today the descendents of these hearty andoften rambunctious groups meld with the con-tinuing influx of people from around the world.A welcome hand is still extended to its visitorsand prospective “settlers.”
above, l to r: Geronimotraversed the Black Range inwhat is now Sierra County,home of the GeronimoSprings Museum in Truth orConsequences. Luna Countybecame internationally famousin 1916 after forces underMexican revolutionary general Pancho Villa attackedColumbus and CampFurlong, a nearby militarybase. Today, Pancho VillaState Park commemo-rates the event.right, l to r: MangasColoradas was chief ofthe Mimbreno Chiricahuas
heroes, villains
and just plain folks
heroes, villains
and just plain folks
top: Billy the Kid was tried and sentenced to hang in Mesilla,today’s home of the William Bonney Gallery, but escaped.
when an influx of minersarrived in the Pinos Altos areaof present day Grant County in the 1850s. Son-in-lawof Mangas Coloradas, Cochise was a chief of theChokoken Chiricahuas, who ranged through the ruggedmountains and canyons of eastern Arizona and present-day Hidalgo County. right: Present-day Catron County was a refuge toButch Cassidy (upper inset) who occasionallyworked as a ranch hand near Glenwood under anassumed name. Self-appointed lawman Elfego Baca(lower inset) survived a 33-hour gun battle with 80opponents in Reserve. below:The Buffalo Soldiers of Fort Craig in today’sSocorro County were never able to capture Victorioand his band of Warm Springs Apaches.
illus
trat
ion
cour
tesy
Luis
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37OLD WEST COUNTRY / BAYARD
center: The VirginMary watches overher community ofvarious faiths andthe surroundingmining district.inset, center: Themassive Santa Ritaopen pit coppermine east of Bayard.inset, right: Abronze BuffaloSoldier vigilantelyguards the paradegrounds at FortBayard NationalLandmark.
BAYARD
LOCATION Bayard is located at the junction of US180 and NM356, theheart of the massive and historic Central Mining District.
TOUR Return to Silver City on US180 and turn southwest onNM90 forty-five miles to Lordsburg.
MORE INFORMATION Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 575-538-3785 1-800-548-9378 www.silvercity.orgCity of Bayard 575-537-3327 www.bayardminingtours.gov
Snuggled beneath the statue of the Virgin Mary and located at the southend of the Central Mining District, the Town of Bayard continues to build thebusiness, educational and cultural aspects of the community. Surrounded bya cluster of tiny mining and mineral processing towns, Bayard has historicallyserved the work forces of the state’s richest mining region.
Despite a land area of only 45 square miles, the Central Mining District hasproduced more gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, iron, manganese, molybde-num and vanadium than the combined output of all the state’s other miningdistricts. It contains nearly 40 significant mines from past and present eras
From Bayard, travel north on NM 356 past four historic mine shaft headframes and a half mile past NM152 to the Empire Zinc head frame. Return toNM152 and travel east past the Kearney head frame, stopping at the breath-taking Santa Rita open pit overlook.
Fort Bayard National Historic Landmark and National Cemetery, just northof Bayard and adjacent to the town of Santa Clara is an example of a late1800s military facility that continues to be uti-lized today as a state hospital. The paradegrounds with its Buffalo Soldier statue are usedfor occasional cavalry era reenactments.
Ft. Bayard NationalHistoric LandmarkCome Experience a Family Adventure to theroots of Southwestern New Mexico. Victorian Teas and Living History EventsFt Bayard Days September 19-20, 2008Tours the 2nd & 4th Saturday of each MonthFt. Bayard, NM • 575.388.4477 • 575.956.3294fortbayardhistoricpreservationsociety.org
Silver City - Grant County Chamber of Commerce- The SilverCity Grant County Chamber of Commerce welcomesyou to the historic mining district of Bayard, NewMexico. Enjoy scenic views of the Kneeling Nun (picturedabove) and the surrounding rock faced mountains. 201 N. Hudson • Silver City, NM575.538.3785 • www.silvercity.org
a.i.r Coffee Co.Mountain a.i.r aroma in every cup.208 Central Ave., Bayard, NM575.537.3967 • 866.892.3009www.aircoffee.biz
Little Nisha’sMexican American Food.Dine In or Carry Out. Wed.-Thurs. 8-8 • Fri.-Sat. 7-8Sunday 7-7106 Hurley Ave., Bayard, NM575.537.3526
City of Bayard - Bayard, hub of theCentral Mining District, established as the depot forFort Bayard in the 1800's. Come see a land rich inresources and tons of fun. Guided bus tours availableon a monthly basis. Tours of the Santa Rita Open PitMine will start early spring 2008. 800 Central Ave. • Bayard, NM575.537.3327 • bayardminingtours.gov
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 38
ATTRACTIONSLordsburg Hidalgo Museum. This OldWest museum documents the early histo-ry in which the nearby ghost towns tookroot. 710 E 2nd St. Open M-F 1-3 PM.575-542-9086.Gila National Forest. Almost one fourthof the 3.3 million acre forest is in wilder-ness. Largest of these is the 438,360 acreGila Wilderness, set aside in 1924 as thefirst such area in the United States.Rodeo. On the NM-AZ border in southernHidalgo Co., Rodeo offers facilities for
travelers and the Chiricahua Guild &Gallery located in an old Mission Church.Portal and Cave Creek. This famous birding area is the only place in NorthAmerica that you can see Olive Warblers,Red-faced Warblers, and MexicanChickadees. Portal also has a wide varietyof hummingbird species. Portal offerslodging and food.Redrock Wildlife Area. Located on theGila River and is operated by the NMGame & Fish Dept. All animals are
protected within the refuge even duringhunting seasons. The main project at thereserve is the breeding and growth of theDesert Big-Horn SheepShakespeare Ghost Town. 2.5 milessouthwest of Lordsburg. Open monthlyfor guided tours. Call for schedule. 575-542-9034www.shakespeareghostown.comPeloncillo Mountains Wilderness.Ragged and rugged, the historic ButterfieldStage Route forms the southern boundary.
Target Lordsburg for a genuine glimpse of the OldWest, but partner, hold onto your hat. A couple ofmiles away, but over a hundred years up the road, therowdy ghost town of Shakespeare boldly hangs onto itsrip-roaring attitude. A mining camp and stage stop onthe Butterfield Trail, some of the fiercest outlaws in theOld West once passed the time drinking and shootingat flies. The Lordsburg Hidalgo Museum displays arti-facts from the area’s ghost towns and highlights its min-ing, railroad, ranching and farming heritage, as well asits historic moments that include the day CharlesLindbergh dropped in for fuel.
West of Lordsburg, Interstate 10 travelers are treatedto a glimpse of the railroad ghost town of Steins. Thecommunity serviced the early steam locomotives utiliz-ing the southern cross-country route.
Traveling south, Granite Gap is a picturesque oldmining area on the road to the tiny arts andaerotrekking town of Rodeo, headquarters for thelargest and oldest ultralight kite wing plane club.Hosting the world’s only fly-in coffee shop, customerscan even hanger their planes, overnight at the complexand visit the Chiricahua Guild and Art Gallery inRodeo’s old mission church. Traveling west from Rodeo,the road to Portal accesses excellent birding, campingand hiking opportunities in the Chiricahua Mountains ofSoutheast Arizona.
North of Lordsburg, the Lower Gila Box WildernessStudy Area provides access to some 170 species ofbirds, petroglyphs and excellent photo opportunities.For more information on Granite Gap, the PeloncilloMountains Wilderness and the Lower Gila BoxWilderness Study Area, call the BLM at (575) 525-4300.
Call ahead for ghost town tours at Shakespeare, (575) 542-9034 or visit www.shakespeareghostown.com
LORDSBURG / HIDALGO COUNTY
39OLD WEST COUNTRY / LORDSBURG
opposite, center: Lordsburg and its surroundingmountain ranges are enhanced by its floral, wildlifeand geologic diversity. opposite, inset: Thelawless ghost town of Shakespeare served localmining efforts and Butterfield stage coachtravelers. above: The tiny art and retirementcommunity of Rodeo accesses hiking and climbingopportunities in Arizona’s Chiricahua Mountainsand is home to the world’s only fly-in coffee shopand cinema.
HIDALGO COUNTY EVENTSFeb 9 Cowboy Poetry Fiesta 575-542-9864Jul 4 July 4th Activities. 5K Run,
Lordsburg July 4th Activities; parade, BBQ, dance in Rodeo, NM
Aug 23-24 Hidalgo County Fair 575-542-9864Aug 29-31 Tejano Fiesta 575-542-9864Oct 18 Sister City Celebration at
Antelope WellsNov 1 Cowboy Hall of Fame
15 Mixed Nuts Arts & Crafts Show, Rodeo, NM
Dec 5 Annual Light Parade, Moonlight Madness 505-542-9864
Contact the Lordsburg Hidalgo County Chamberof Commerce to check on events and dates, aschanges may occur throughout the year. 575-542-9864 Fax: 575-542-9059. E-Mail: [email protected].
LOCATIONLordsburg is located at the junction of IH-10 and NM90 near the Butterfield Trail stage stop of Shakespeare.
TOUR Travel west on IH-10 to Steins ghost town and southon NM80 to the village of Rodeo and the ChiricahuaMountains. Return to Lordsburg and travel east onIH-10 to Deming, the origin of the tour.
MORE INFORMATION Greater Hidalgo Area Chamber of Commerce 575-542-9864 www.GreaterHidalgoAreaCoC.comemail: [email protected]
2008 OLD WEST TRAILS www.oldwestcountry.com 1-800-290-8330 40
Old 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 move-
ments. Desert locales are
more active for a variety of
raptors and even burrow-
ing 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 hun-
dred species of birds without leaving
home. Visitors, of course, increase
their success rate when the local pop-
ulation points out the most likely loca-
tions. For those just beginning the
quest for identifying birds, as with any
new activity, success is important to
maintaining interest.
Old West Trails has
compiled a list of pop-
ular birding locations and the
species known to drop in from
time to time. Some of the loca-
tions are also known for their sce-
nic beauty; others may seem unlike-
ly but are nonetheless areas preferred
by a number of our feathered friends.
Old West Country birding experts
have verified all locations.
By combining information con-
tained in this feature with other
resources found on these
pages, you can plan a bird-
ing adventure that
also includes
hiking, camping,
horseback riding and a wealth of
other activities that await you in
Old West Country.
Visit www.oldwestcountry.com/
birding map.html to view this
map in electronic form.
this page: Tens of thousands of migrating waterfowl pause in the latefall at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge near Socorro.
1. Hatch to Deming: NM 26 Raptor Route(Private Property. Bird from road only) F4
2. Mount View Cemetery. F43. Deming Water Treatment Area. F44. Spring Canyon Unit of Rock Hound
State Park. F45. Pancho Villa State Park. G46. NM 9 between Hachita & Animas. G27. NM 338 South of Animas (Private
Property. Bird from road only.) G18. Clanton Canyon. G19. State Line Road near Rodeo (Private
Property. Bird from road only.) G110. Granite Gap. F111. Lordsburg Playa (Private Property. Bird
from road only.) F112. Virden Bridge (Private Property. Bird from
road only.) E113. Lower Gila Box. E114. Glenwood Fish Hatchery. C115. National Catwalk Recreation Area. C2
16. Mogollon (Private Property. Bird fromroad only.) C2
17. Willow Creek Campground. C218. Redrock Road (Private Property. Bird
from road only.) E219. Burro Mountains: Forest Rd. 851. E220. Gila River Bird Habitat Area. E221. Gila River/Mogollon Creek Confluence. D222. Big Ditch Park. E323. Cherry Creek/McMillan Campgrounds. E324. Signal Peak Road. E325. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. D326. Lake Roberts Area. D327. TNC Mimbres Preserve. D328. Fort Bayard Historical District. E329. City of Rocks State Park. E330. Iron Creek Campground to Lower
Gallinas Campground. E431. Emory Pass. E432. Kingston-Hillsboro Area (Private Property
- Bird from road only). E433. Las Animas Creek (Private Property. Bird
from road only.) D534. Percha Dam State Park. E535. Caballo Lake State Park & Caballo Dam.D536. Las Palomas Marsh. D537. Elephant Butte Lake State Park. D538. Springtime Campground. C539. Leasburg Dam State Park. E540. Dripping Springs Recreation Area. F641. Aguirre Springs National
Recreation Area. F642. The Bosque del Apache. B643. Water Canyon. B544. Socorro Birding Site. B6
6789
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11
1213
15
1617
19
20
21
22
23
18
14
Map compiled by the State Audobon.
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Birding LocationsBirding Locations
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OLD WESTSOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO
Reserve/Glenwood1 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)
Socorro13 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-C622 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)
Silver City24 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 Consequences38 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 Damq Percha Dam/Campground (E5)r Veterans Mem. Park/Museum (D5)s Engle (D5)
Lordsburg53 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)
Deming66 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)
CountryCountryTourTourOLD WEST
72 St. Clair Winery (F4)73 Geolapidary Museum (F4)74 Mimbres-Paquime Tour (E3-H2)75 Pancho Villa State Park (G4)76 Columbus/Museum (G4)77 Palomas (G4)v Fort Cummings (F4)
w Historic Luna Co. Courthouse (F4)
Las Cruces78 Old Mesilla (F6)79 NM Farm-Ranch Museum (F6)80 Gadsden Museum (F6)81 Branigan Cultural Center (F6)
82 New Mexico State University (F6)83 Natural History Museum (F6)84 Bataan Death March Memorial (F6)85 Dripping Springs (F6)86 Stahmann Farms (F6)87 White Sands MIssile Range Museum (F6)88 White Sands Nat’l. Monument (E7)
89 Ft. Selden State Monument (E5)90 Leasburg Dam State Park (E5)91 War Eagles Air Museum (G6)x San Albino Church/Old Mesilla (F6)y Aguirre Springs Nat. Recreation Area (F6)z Chamberino (F6)
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38 T or C hot baths39 Geronimo Spr Museum40 Rio Grandep Elephant Butte Damr Veterans Memorial Park
& Museum
PRESRT STDUS POSTAGE
PAIDSilver City, NM
88061PERMIT No. 10
P.O. Box 884Silver City, NM 88062
1-800-290-8330www.oldwestcountry.com
e-mail: [email protected]
OLD WEST COUNTRYSouthwest Region 2
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To have new experiences...
To have new experiences...
A place where fortunes were made,hearts were broken and dreams were fulfilled!A place where fortunes were made,hearts were broken and dreams were fulfilled!
Where it All Began...Where it All Began...