Gila NF: Another Portion of the Catwalk Expected to be Re-Opened

Glenwood, NM; May 17, 2013— Work is going full steam ahead for re-opening an additional portion of the popular Catwalk National Recreation Trail located on the Glenwood Ranger District, Gila National Forest. Forest employees, many of them firefighting personnel, are working to replace an additional ¼ mile of the trail up to the octagon (the 8-sided view area) in hopes of having work completed by Memorial Day weekend. “Although we are working towards this date, we may face some challenges with fire season upon us,” says Pat Morrison, Glenwood District Ranger. No fees are currently being charged at the Catwalk. Once the new toilet is installed, the $3.00 per vehicle fee may be reinstated.

 

“The Forest Service is supportive of the Catwalk restoration recognizing its popularity among local citizens and tourists from throughout the country and internationally; the local economies of the Glenwood area and Catron County are also of high value to us,” adds Ranger Morrison.

On May 26, 2012, the Catwalk and Whitewater Picnic Area were closed due to public safety concerns from the Whitewater-Baldy Fire Complex, the largest wildland fire in New Mexico history. Since October 6, 2012, the Catwalk trail has been partially re-opened from ¼ mile from the picnic area, including the portion of the picnic area located at the Catwalk entrance.

During times of rain events, it will be necessary to temporarily close the opened portions of the  Catwalk recreation area due to potential flashfloods and flooding. 

For other fun activities in the Glenwood area, a glimpse back in time of a historic mining community can be enjoyed at the Ghost Town of Mogollon. There are also a number of historical sites including Cooney’s Tomb, WS Cemetery and Meador’s stage stop.

Free camping opportunities are available at the Bighorn Campground and the  Hot Springs Trailhead both near Glenwood plus Pueblo Park Campground, 20 miles northwest of Glenwood.

The Blue Range Wilderness, one of the three wilderness areas on the Forest, offers abundant opportunities for hiking and solitude. From west of the San Francisco River, the road system provides opportunities for ATV rides, including some loop rides.

Please contact the Glenwood Ranger District, 575.539.2481, for further information.