August 2-9, 2003
Gila National Forest - by Dave De Groot
Congress established the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) in 1978. Efforts to complete the 3100-mile route from Mexico to Canada have been ongoing ever since. This year CTTT assisted in that effort by constructing a new section of the CDT in the vicinity of Black Peak in the Gila National Forest. I hate to brag but this was one of the best trips I ever led. The campsite was SWEET, situated at 7950 Ft (according to the GPS) among a stand of tall pines and aspens. The air was filled with the aroma of the trees and hummingbirds flitted around the campsite attending to the numerous wild flowers. In the evening we communed around the campfire to ward of the mountain chill. Meanwhile, Austin sweltered in 100+ degree heat. We visited the Signal Peak fire tower and on our Friday play-day, we toured the Gila Cliff Dwellings, which turned out to be well worth the 2-hour drive from Silver City. Oh yeah, we did some trail work too. The Forest Service crew was a lot of fun and we worked well together (see pictures). The District Ranger and Recreation Manager even came out to inspect our work and were obviously impressed since they paid for our fee at the Cliff Dwellings. Do not despair, however, if you missed this one because we are already planning a return trip for next year.
Friday, August 15, 2003
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