Glenwood Ranger District
The Glenwood Ranger District is located in Glenwood, New Mexico a town of approximately 300 people, known for its spectacular views of the Mogollon Mountains, the Catwalk National Recreation Area and the ghost town of Mogollon. It is tucked away in the southwest corner of the state, 65 miles north of Silver City. The elevation in Glenwood is approximately 4,770 feet, but the district ranges in elevations up to 10,535 feet.
The majority of the Glenwood area landscape is considered high-desert. The summer temperatures average 50 to 98 degrees. Spring and fall temperatures average between 45 to 75 degrees and winter temperatures range from 25 to 55 degrees with a few colder days. Snow is anticipated in the Glenwood area only about 5 days per year, usually clearing off by mid-afternoon. Sunshine is abundant most all year round. Typically starting around July 4, the monsoon rains brings a wet season that lasts approximately two months.
Contact the district office at 575-539-2481
General Information
The Glenwood Ranger District is managed for many multi-use purposes; hunting, fishing, hiking, ranching, camping and personal firewood cutting are among the activities. The district manages more than 525,448 acres of the Gila National Forest, including the western portion of the Gila Wilderness and the Blue Range Wilderness. The district has more than 322 miles of trail, offering diverse terrain and dramatic landscapes for the skilled hiker.
The Glenwood Ranger District has many attractions including the Aldo Leopold Vista, Mogollon Historic Area, and the Pueblo Park Campground. Additionally, the Glenwood Ranger District is home to the Catwalk National Recreation Trail and the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary in North America, located at Cosmic Campground.
Passes & Permits
A day use pass is required for the Catwalk Recreation Area. Payment by fee envelope is accepted on site, or visitors can use a New Mexico Enchantment Pass or one of the Interagency Passes in lieu of daily fee.
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.
Complexes
The Catwalk's history began with the discovery of gold and silver in the rugged Mogollon Mountains above Whitewater Canyon. In 1893, the small town of Graham (also known as Whitewater) grew around a mill, located on the west hillside near the present-day location of the parking area. The mill only lasted about 10 years. In the mid-1930's the Civilian Conservation Corps rebuilt the Catwalk. The CCC-era Catwalk bridge system washed away during a huge flooding event in 2013 after the 2012 Whitewater-Baldy Fire. The bridge system was rebuilt and is now open for approximately .5 miles from the parking lot. This is a very accessible area and easily hiked by all ages.
High stream flows are common at the last low water vehicle crossing before the Catwalk parking lot. Use caution if you decide to cross and remember that flows may increase from snowmelt in the afternoon, or under the influence of monsoon rains.
- Dogs must be on a leash at all times in all developed recreation sites. Please pack out your dog's solid waste.
- No drinking water available. Hydrate well and bring extra water and sunscreen.
- Recommend wearing closed-toe shoes.
- Watch out for rattlesnakes and other wildlife.
- If the trash receptacles are full, pack out your trash.
This is a shaded picnic area located adjacent to Whitewater Creek and there are 18 picnic tables and grills available for public use.
Trailhead for the Catwalk National Recreation Trail #207 and Whitewater Trail #207.
Recreation Sites
Aldo Leopold Vista Picnic Area
Aspen Mountain #814 Trailhead
Bighorn Campground
Blue Range Wilderness
Catwalk #207 Trailhead
Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary
Cottonwood #44 Trailhead
Cottonwood Campground
Crest #182 Trailhead
Deloche #179 Trailhead