Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Mogollon, New Mexico

Annie and I took the 12 mile drive to the mining town of Mogollon.  Definitely not a road for people who are afraid of heights.  The  road climbs up to about 10000 feet elevation and gets narrower and steeper as you go.  Definitely one lane most places with blind curves and drop offs with seemingly no bottoms.  Spectacular views of the valleys when you can find a pull-out.
Mogollon is still alive but barely.  Mining has dried up and a few people hang on by tourism.  Artists from Texas filled the streets in the 50's and 60's.


I was told this was once a gallery.

Monday, May 18, 2009

Catwalk Canyon, New Mexico

Hopefully these images allow us to remember the beauty of this place.


Catwalk Canyon, New Mexico

Catwalk canyon, a remnant from mining days is a must see place in western New Mexico.  The trail travels up a slot canyon that would be impassable without the construction of the catwalks.  They were originally built to support a water line that carried water to a mine.  Approximately 15 years ago the catwalk was still made of the original metal, very rusty and questionably safe.  Recent upgrades changed the flavor of the experience but not the canyon. This image is at the top of the trail.
It doesn't take much to get this suspension bridge jumping.
This must have been placed by helicopter?

The newest wheelchair accessible section.