Catron County Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and nature-filled Catron County in Southwest New Mexico with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to eat and stay in the area.


Introduction to Catron County

Located in Southwest New Mexico, Catron County is a hidden gem for travelers looking for a unique blend of nature and culture. Known for its vast wilderness areas, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, this county is a destination that shouldn’t be missed. Explore this comprehensive tour guide to discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Catron County.

List of Places to Visit in Catron County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pie Town: A small town known for its delicious pies and unique history, Pie Town is located in southern Catron County.
  • Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument: A must-visit attraction in Catron County, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument showcases the archaeological remains of ancient Native American cliff dwellings.
  • Catron County Museum: Learn about the history of Catron County at this museum located in Reserve, the county seat.

Natural Attractions of Catron County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gila National Forest: A popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, the Gila National Forest covers a large portion of Catron County.
  • Catwalk National Recreation Trail: Walk along a metal catwalk suspended on the side of a narrow gorge with views of Whitewater Creek and the surrounding landscape.
  • Black Range Scenic Byway: Drive along this scenic byway, which covers a 65-mile stretch of Route 152 from Kingston to San Lorenzo, and enjoy view of the Black Range Mountains and wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Catron County

  • Gila River Trail: Follow the Gila River for 26 miles through the Gila National Forest. This trail is great for both hiking and mountain biking.
  • Mogollon Trail: This 14-mile mountain bike trail is located in the Mogollon Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Catwalk Trail: Enjoy a one-mile hike along the Whitewater Creek in the scenic Catwalk National Recreation Trail.

Best Things to Do in Catron County: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: Explore the natural beauty of Catron County on horseback with several local outfitters offering guided tours.
  • Hot Springs Soaking: Relax in the natural hot springs located in the Gila National Forest and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Catron County is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, bears, mountain lions, and deer. Go on a guided tour or explore on your own for a chance to spot some of these animals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Catron County

Day Activity
1 Visit the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
2 Hike the Gila River Trail
3 Visit Pie Town and try some of the famous pies
4 Horseback ride in the Gila National Forest
5 Soak in the natural hot springs
6 Explore the Catron County Museum in Reserve
7 Drive along the Black Range Scenic Byway and take in the views

Food and Drink Scene of Catron County

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pies from Pie Town: Try the famous pie flavors like apple, cherry, and rhubarb at one of the local Pie Town cafes.
  • Hatch green chile burger: A popular dish at local diners, this burger is made with Hatch green chiles, one of New Mexico’s staple ingredients.
  • Enchiladas: Sample this classic New Mexican dish made with red or green chile sauce.

Local Beverages

  • New Mexico wines: Visit a local vineyard or winery and try some of the excellent wines produced in New Mexico.
  • Local craft beers: From ales to stouts, Catron County has a growing craft beer scene.

Where to Stay in Catron County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Murray Hotel: This historic hotel in downtown Silver City offers comfortable and charming rooms with a restaurant and bar on-site.
  • Bear Mountain Lodge: Located in the Gila National Forest, this lodge offers cozy cabins with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Syzygy Tileworks Guesthouse: Stay in a beautiful guesthouse located on the Syzygy Tileworks property and enjoy a tour of their tile studio.

What to Buy in Catron County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery from Gila Clay Pottery: This local pottery studio creates unique pieces using traditional techniques and local materials.
  • Honey from Akela Flats Farms: Taste some of the delicious honey produced from the bees at this local farm.
  • Handmade crafts from Catron County artisans: From jewelry to textiles, there are several local artisans creating beautiful handmade crafts in Catron County.

Local Culture and Customs of Catron County

Catron County has a rich and diverse cultural heritage influenced by Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo settlers. Visitors to the area can experience traditional customs and festivals like the Apache Homelands Gathering and Gila River Festival.

Best Time to Visit Catron County

The best time to visit Catron County is in the fall or spring when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot, with temperatures reaching over 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Catron County

Do:

  • Respect cultural traditions and customs.
  • Leave no trace when hiking or camping in the wilderness areas.
  • Bring plenty of water and sunscreen when exploring outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Approach or feed wildlife.
  • Ignore signs and regulations in national parks and forests.
  • Leave valuables in your car when parking in remote areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Catron County

Catron County is a safe destination, but visitors should take necessary precautions when exploring the wilderness areas. Be aware of the weather and bring appropriate gear when hiking or camping.

Health in Catron County

Medical care is available in Reserve, but it is limited. Visitors should bring any necessary medication and make sure to have adequate travel insurance.

Getting to Catron County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Catron County

  • Albuquerque International Sunport: Located 220 miles from Reserve, this is the closest major airport.
  • Tucson International Airport: Located 260 miles from Reserve, this is another major airport option.

Bus Stations Near Catron County

  • Greyhound: There are Greyhound bus stations in Albuquerque and Las Cruces, both of which are about 3 hours away from Reserve.

Other Options

  • Renting a car: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore Catron County.
  • Private shuttle services: There are private shuttle services available for transportation within Catron County.

How to Get Around in Catron County

Driving or renting a car is the easiest way to get around Catron County. However, there are also shuttle services available for transportation to and from points of interest in the area.

Where to Go Next from Catron County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Silver City: Located 70 miles from Reserve, Silver City is a charming town with a thriving art scene and plenty of outdoor activities.
  • Truth or Consequences: A town famous for its hot springs, Truth or Consequences is located 150 miles from Reserve and is worth the drive for a relaxing soak.
  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Located 220 miles from Reserve, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-visit attraction for those interested in geology and cavern exploration.

Conclusion

Catron County is a unique and charming destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty and culture of Southwestern America. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in this hidden gem of New Mexico. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan the perfect trip to Catron County and make unforgettable memories.