ONWARD TO LORDSBURG!

A Southern New Mexico Treasure on the CDT

By Liz Schmit CDTC Community & Outreach Program Manager

Lordsburg, New Mexico, a small town with a population of just over 2,000, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Situated along the CDT as one of the very first stops for Northbound hikers, Lordsburg is a popular destination for trail users. The CDT passes through Lordsburg after about 85 miles, making it an ideal spot for hikers to rest, resupply, and take a break from the trail.

More than just a trail town, what makes Lordsburg truly unique is its community involvement with the Continental Divide Trail. It has a rich history, community, and culture, making it a worthwhile stop for any visitor. Local businesses and organizations work together to provide services and support for CDT hikers. That is in part due to Christine Ortiz, Acting Director of the Lordsburg-Hidalgo County Chamber of Commerce. Ortiz, through her energetic leadership and drive, has begun working with her community to make outdoor recreation part of its economic development in partnership with Explore Hidalgo County Outdoors.

Explore Hidalgo County Outdoors (ECHO) has started bringing together community members to enhance collective wellness and boost excitement around outdoor recreation. Ortiz has been instrumental in creating an in-town frisbee golf course, and she will be working with Youth Conservation Corps this summer to map out local areas for bike trail opportunities. Because there are two opportunities for trail users to visit Lordsburg – starting in town to take the shuttle down to Crazy Cook Monument, then hiking the 80 miles back – Ortiz is looking for ways to connect visitors and locals alike to outdoor opportunities.

Get Outside, Hidalgo! is a new annual event occurring each April and is just one of the new initiatives Ortiz and ECHO are launching. Planned as a fun 24 hours of outdoor activities, the event brings together hikers, Trail Angels (local volunteers who provide support and assistance to hikers), and community members for a CDT hiker kick-off event full of music, food, activities, and informational booths.

The community supports hikers through a Trail Angel program, where locals provide free lodging, showers, and meals for hikers passing through town. This program helps hikers save money on their journey and provides an opportunity to connect with locals and learn more about the area. ECHO also hosts a CDT hiker shuttle out of one of their buildings in town and is developing the building as a day-use facility for hikers.

These resources are part of the hub that creates a special, communal aspect of the CDT Lordsburg experience.

Community involvement with the CDT goes beyond just supporting hikers. Lordsburg has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the days of the Old West. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a railroad stop and has seen its share of boom and bust cycles over the years. Did you know Lordsburg is the birthplace of the official New Mexico state song ‘O Fair New Mexico’?

In addition to its history, Lordsburg is also home to vibrant arts and culture. The Hidalgo County Arts Council hosts regular exhibits and events featuring local artists, musicians, and performers. The council also sponsors a youth art program, providing young people in the community with opportunities to explore their creativity and develop their skills. Architecturally speaking, even the Lordsburg-Hidalgo County library boasts original adobe walls and vigas supporting the roof. Walking inside, the library proudly has a sign stating that it is a space welcome and accessible for all. Noise is encouraged, and the fun continues within the walls and outside. It seems Lordsburg carries this message throughout town.

Lordburg’s involvement with the CDT, history, culture–and even the abundance of pecan trees–make the town a fascinating and unique destination. Whether you’re a hiker passing through town or someone looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of the American Southwest, Lordsburg has something to offer. It’s a reminder that even the smallest towns can be full of surprises and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

Lordburg’s involvement with the CDT, history, culture–and even the abundance of pecan trees–make the town a fascinating and unique destination. Whether you’re a hiker passing through town or someone looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of the American Southwest, Lordsburg has something to offer. It’s a reminder that even the smallest towns can be full of surprises and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.