Middle Fork Backpack (Gila NF)

Contact Leader(s): Jenny Blackmore, j.blackmore@nmvfo.org with any questions.

RESULTS: Sixteen volunteers from NMVFO and the Continental Divide Trail Coalition joined the Back Country Horsemen of NM, Gila Chapter, on the CDT along the Middle Fork of the Gila River. Volunteers removed 135 logs, built 30 cairns, cleared corridor, and realigned or improved several sections of tread along 5 miles of trail.

PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: NMVFO is partnering with the Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) and the Back Country Horsemen of New Mexico, Gila Chapter (BCH) on a backcountry trail maintenance project near the middle fork of the Gila River. We will clear corridor and re-establish tread along this alternate route of the Continental Divide Trail. We will meet at the Aeroplane Mesa Campground at 8:00 AM on April 27th. Camping in the vicinity the night before is highly recommended. The hike to basecamp is approximately 4 miles, and we will work mainly upstream from there. The first and last days will be hiking days bookending the trail work, with a half-day in the middle to relax and explore the surrounding area.

The BCH will provide horse support. At basecamp, water will be filtered daily from the Gila River. All tools and PPE will be provided, as well as dinner Apr 27-May 1 and breakfast Apr 28-May 2 (not Apr 27). You will need to provide and carry your own lunches, backpack, tent and sleeping bag/pad. Prior to the start date, CDTC will send out a packing checklist and other information to those who have registered, including directions to our meeting place.

Hope you can join us!

Difficulty: 3 Pulaskis

Group Size: 10

For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.

Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.