Aldo Leopold Wilderness Area
The United States Congress designated the Aldo Leopold Wilderness in 1980 and it has a total of 202,016 acres. All of the wilderness is in New Mexico and is managed by the Gila National Forest. The wilderness area lies along the cest of the Black Range.
The area with the Aldo Leopold Wilderness was formerly part of the Gila Wilderness. The Aldo Leopold Wilderness was named for one of history's most influential conservationists, and protects the roughest, wildest portions of one of New Mexico's wildest corners -- the Black Range. The elevations in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness range from 6,000 feet to 10,165 feet. The Aldo Leopold is rugged and remote and is often considered New Mexico's "wildest wilderness."
General Information
The Continental Divide runs down the middle of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness Area, following the heart of the Black Range from Diamond Peak to Reeds Peak, with the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail following it. Water tends to be one of the greatest factors limiting access, so advanced planning for visitors is critical.
Passes & Permits
No passes are required for use. Permits are required for organized groups entering the
Rentals & Guides
Please contact the Gila National Forest Supervisors Office at 575-388-8201 for information about outfitters and guides who are authorized to operate on the forest.
Recreation Sites
Black Canyon Campground - Lower
Black Canyon Campground - Upper
Board Gate Saddle #79 Trailhead
CDNST/Mimbres Access #741 Trailhead
Circle Seven #106 Trailhead
East Canyon #93 Trailhead
Emory Pass #79 Trailhead
Lake #110 Trailhead
McKnight #79 Trailhead
McKnight Cabin #92 Trailhead