Region

Aggies interested in enjoying the wonderful spring weather and great outdoor recreational opportunities often turn to hiking and backpacking. And why not? Southern New Mexico boasts a 650-mile-portion of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). “The King of Trails” stretches 3,100 miles across five ecological life zones, roughly following the crest of the Rocky Mountains from Mexico to Canada. However, it’s not for the faint of heart!

The most rugged long-distance National Scenic Trail in the U.S., the CDT offers spectacular scenery. Although celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the CDT is only 70 percent complete, with the majority of the undeveloped, most primitive segments in New Mexico and Wyoming.

The best access points to the trail are found in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness and along the Mimbres River (both within the Gila National Forest), and in the Cibola National Forest and the Pelona Mountain National Conservation Areas. The CDT is open all year, but the Bureau of Land Management recommends checking with your local BLM or National Forest Service office as to the condition of the trail segment you’re contemplating.

If you’re not ready to tackle the CDT, here are suggestions for hikes of varying lengths located closer to home. The Dripping Springs and La Cueva trails, part of the Dripping Springs Natural Area, are each one-mile long. Aguirre Spring Campground, in the Organ Mountains, features the four-mile Pine Tree Trail and Baylor Pass, which climbs some 5,500 feet over six miles.

No matter which direction you take, it’s important to be well-prepared for the trail you choose to hike. Tell friends or family where you’re going and when to expect you home, take appropriate gear (i.e., the 10 essentials: map, compass, water and a way to purify it, extra food and clothing, rain gear, firestarter and matches, firs aid kit, army knife or multi-purpose tool, flashlight and extra bulbs and sunscreen and sunglasses) and follow Leave No Trace guidelines.

NMSU’s Outdoor Adventure Program, part of the College of Education, offers clinics, advice on and sales of equipment, and guided group trails. Find out more from Assistant Director of Recreational Sports Ben Gabriel at bgabriel@nmsu.edu or 646-4746. For experienced hikers interested in building leadership skills, the Continental Divide Trail Alliance is conducting a Crew Leader Training course in Silver City May 22-25.