News Release

Pecos NHP to Celebrate National Public Lands Day with Special Hiking Opportunity at Forked Lightning Ranch

Date: August 27, 2018
Contact: Visitor Center, 505-757-7241

Pecos, NM: Celebrate the 25^th anniversary of National Public Lands Day with a 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 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 29^th. 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.
 
Established in 1994, National Public Lands Day is the largest single-day volunteer effort in support of public lands. It celebrates the connection between people and the green spaces in their community, inspires stewardship, and encourages use of open space for education, recreation and general health.
 
In honor of the 25^th anniversary of National Public Lands Day, the park’s cooperating association, Western National Parks Association, will raffle off two prize baskets (one for adults, one for children) for those who successfully complete a bingo card during their hike. The bingo cards will feature the autumn flora and fauna that are commonly seen on the trail. 
 
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 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.; visitors must complete their hike no later than 1:00 p.m. Dogs on leash are permitted. This trail is exposed to the elements; exercise appropriate caution with regard to weather and remember to bring plenty of water.
 
For more information about the park contact Pecos NHP at [phone] or visit our website at www.nps.gov/peco. Please like on us on Facebook athttps://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.