News Release

Expanded Summer Hiking Opportunities at Forked Lightning Ranch

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Date: June 28, 2019
Contact: Visitor Center, 505-757-7241

Pecos, NM: Are you one of the many locals who hasn’t yet been to Pecos National Historical Park? Well, here is your chance to get out and explore your own backyard! On Saturdays and Sunday from July 6th- September 1st, visitors can hike through one of the seldom-seen areas of Pecos National Historical Park. The 3.8 mile South Pasture Loop trail on the grounds of the historic Forked Lightning Ranch will be open to hikers from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on weekends. This moderately difficult trail follows old ranch roads through a shady cottonwood grove, along the bluffs of the Pecos River, and through the open pasture lands of the Forked Lightning Ranch.
 
Hikers must first check in at the Visitor Center to receive driving directions to the trailhead and a hiking map. The trailhead is open from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; visitors must complete their hike no later than 3:00 p.m. Dogs are not permitted. This trail is exposed to the elements; exercise appropriate caution with regard to weather.
 
Legislation in the 1990s added the Forked Lightning Ranch property to the park, which expanded park lands from 342 acres to more than 6,700 acres. This vast scenic expanse of land offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of the Upper Pecos River watershed. 
 
For more information about the park contact Pecos NHP at (505) 757-7241 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/peco. You will also find our listings on the New Mexico True website (newmexico.org) and Tourism Santa Fe (santafe.org). Please like on us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PecosNHPnps or Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/pecos_nps).
 
From I-25 N: Take the Pecos/Glorieta Exit, #299. Left onto overpass, right onto Route 50; proceed on Route 50 for eight miles. At the village of Pecos, take a right at the four-way stop onto Route 63. In two miles, the park will be on your right. From I-25 S: Take the Rowe Exit, #307. Follow signs. From Highway 63, the park will be on your left.



Last updated: June 30, 2019

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Mailing Address:

Pecos National Historical Park
P.O. Box 418

Pecos, NM 87552

Phone:

505 757-7241

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