News Release

park offers special hikes to backcountry pueblo sites

A backcountry pueblo site.

NPS Image

News Release Date: June 1, 2021

Contact: Becky Latanich, [phone]

Pecos, NM:– Pecos National Historical Park will offer two special backcountry hikes this June. 

Arrowhead Pueblo 

Join rangers for a free tour of the seldom-seen Arrowhead Pueblo on Saturday, June 19^th.This one-mile roundtrip visit to the 14^th century pueblo will explore the historical, archaeological, and cultural significance of this 100+ room ruin. Visitors interested in the tour are required to reserve a spot, as space is limited. Attendees will meet at the Visitor Center at 8:30 a.m. and caravan to the trailhead with the ranger.  

Forked Lightning Pueblo 

Explore the site of the Forked Lightning Pueblo on Sunday, June 20th. Along the two-mile roundtrip backcountry hike to the remnants of this 13th century pueblo, you will explore the fascinating history of a large settlement that sits on the western bank of Glorieta Creek.  The pueblo, which housed hundreds of people primarily between 1225 and 1300 AD, was described and mapped by noted archaeologist A.V. Kidder in the late 1920s.  Much has been learned about this historical treasure since then—come see for yourself!  

This 2.5 hour program is an off-trail hike along uneven terrain through areas frequented by snakes. Visitors interested in the tour must reserve a spot. Space is limited to 20 participants. Attendees will meet at 8:30 a.m. in the Upper Parking Lot adjacent to the ruins of the mission church. 

Please remember to keep your distance. Follow the CDC's social distancing guidelines and stay at least six feet away from other people. If you are not fully vaccinated, wear a mask indoors and in crowded outdoor spaces. 

For more information and to make reservations, contact Pecos NHP at [phone]. 

You will also find our listings on the New Mexico True and Tourism Santa Fe. Please like us on Facebook or Instagram.  

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.