GRANT COUNTY
The Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway
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below: Geronimo, a determined Apache leader, was born near the headwaters of the Gila River and is recognized by a monument at the Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center. opposite: Fort Cobre in Pinos Altos is the replica of an early fort that provided protection for area mining efforts.
THE WINDING BLACK RIBBON OF HIGHWAY CROSSES THE stunning mountains and canyons of Old West Country, past green farming valleys and historic villages. The Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway seems a road through time itself, recalling the ancient civilizations, nomadic Native American tribes, miners and settlers who once called this place home. Starting in the historic mountain village of Pinos Altos on the Continental Divide, the discovery of gold in 1859 created a boomtown. Today, the gold is gone, but the Old West character remains. Memorabilia and artifacts of gun fighters, Apache warriors and the ancient Mimbres culture are displayed in local establishments. A replica of Fort Webster, a log cabin schoolhouse and the old Hearst Church Art Gallery remicent of bygone times. NM15 takes the traveler into the three million acre Gila National Forest, past campgrounds and wilderness vistas to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. A visitor center explains the life of the ancient Mogollon culture that inhabited the area. The nearby Geronimo Monument is dedicated to that Apache warrior, born in the area in 1829. The byway backtracks to picturesque Sapillo Creek on NM 35 and circles around Lake Roberts. Sandstone cliffs, marshes, campgrounds, lodges and an abundance of hiking, photo and birding opportunities create a year-round attraction. Crossing the Continental Divide a second time, the byway
“…A road through time itself, recalling the ancient civilizations, Native American tribes, miners and settlers who called this place home.”
OWT34
2006 OLD WEST TRAILS
www.oldwestcountry.com