March Gila Trails Update

In this Newsletter:

- Current Conditions

- Day Adventures

- Backcountry Adventures

- NEW Spring Trail Project Schedule

CDT north of Rocky Canyon Campground

Pockets of Water in the Gila

There are still pockets of water in the Gila.

Here are some current reports. Not sure how long the water will be reliable but for now...

Predicted Long Term Forcast

NOAA is predicting a hot and dry April and May.

This is very concerning considering the already high fire danger and tall dead grass everywhere.

Summer Monsoons are predicted to be above average.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions in the Gila

Learn more about Stage 1 fire restrictions in the Gila.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions started March 10th in the Gila, a month + earlier than normal.

If the hot, dry weather continues, be ready for stage 2 to be implemented.

With the severe drought we are in, the small amount of precip we may receive in April won't even put a dent in the fire hazards.

Questions about Fire Restrictions throughout New Mexico,

check out the ENMRD's Find Current Fire Restrictions page.

2 Demo Crosscutting Events

photo credit: Matt Rehani

Join Us at two events in Silver City and try crosscutting!

CDT Trail Days

Trail Days Festival at Gough Park Saturday, April 19th

To learn about all the events for this fun weekend April 18-20, check out CDTC Website.

We will also have a day trail project on April 20th in conjunction with CDT Trail Days

Give Grandly

Saturday May 3rd at Give Grandly.

"Future-proofing the outdoor recreation economy"

Check out an article by Headwater Economics regarding fires and floods and the Outdoor Economy: Future-proofing the outdoor recreation economy - Headwaters Economics

Adventure at your own risk.

Trail conditions change.

Recreate Responsibly

Mimbres River Trail #77

Finding water is a treat during these times of drought. 

The Mimbres River Trail #77 has recently been improved (first 5.5 miles), making for a pleasant out-and-back experience.

In addition to the flowing water, enjoy the rock formations and an adventure that traverses multiple ecosystems.

Note the elevation change leaving from the trailhead one way: gross: +698'-924'.

Parking: be sure to drive to the Mimbres River Trailhead. The turn-off of FS RD 150 for the trailhead is about 0.5 miles PAST the turn-off for the Mimbres River/Cooney Place/Private Property.  

The side road to the trailhead is currently accessible by medium vehicles. Most people with horse trailers prefer to park at the pull-off on FS RD 150.

Deadman Canyon Trail # 786

As the weather warms up, Deadman Canyon can be a nice shaded escape with some views.

Acces the trail via the Tyron Thompson Road which is in good shape because they just graded it.  

The trail is marked with a sign in the first parking area of 4249F. The beginning of the trail from the back parking area is marked with a cairn. It intersects with a couple of smaller trails with no signs so be sure to bring a map.  

Backcountry Adventures

Given the water situation and that there was water recently reported at Lower Mars Spring and Iron Creek, an adventure near Snow Lake, Willow Creek and the Upper Middle Fork is an idea this month.



In many years, there is too much snow in this area this early in the year.

Now is your chance.

Or create your own adventure using the Trails Cleared Map

NEW Spring Trail Project Schedule

Backcountry Projects

Check out the rest of the spring Trail Project Schedule

Also includes Little Cherry Creek and Sycamore Canyon Day Projects

Note: ALL May Trail projects have been canceled due to the high fire danger and predicted hot, dry weather.

Enjoy Gila Trails!

View from the Gnarly Trail near Saddle Rock