Catwalk National Recreation #207 Trail
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 Catwalk bridge system washed away during a huge flooding event 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. After the bridge system, the trail system has been cleared for another .5 - .75 miles. It goes across a low-water crossing, across the fiberglass bridge and through the arch. Once you go up the stairs to a small viewing area the trail can become steep. Past the "swimming hole" the trail becomes unnavigable. A series of trail reconstruction projects are occurring to restore trail access toward Hummingbird Saddle.
At a Glance
Operational Hours: | Dawn to dusk |
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Usage: | Heavy |
Closest Towns: | Glenwood, NM |
Restroom: | yes |
Information Center: | Glenwood Ranger District Phone: (575) 539-2481 |
General Information
Directions:The area is approximately 5 miles from Glenwood, NM, at the end of NM Hwy 174 (Catwalk Road).
General Notes:
Activities
Day Hiking
Recent trail work has restored trail access to a campsite along the Whitewater Creek Trail 2 miles west of the Gold Dust Trail. The South Fork Whitewater Trail has also been reopened in 2023. Additional trail work is planned to restore access to Hummingbird Saddle along the Whitewater Creek Trail.
Current Conditions: | A closure remains in place beyond the swimming hole due to a dangerous rock overhanging the trail. |
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Status: | Open |
Difficulty Level: | Easy |