Park Offers Last of the Special Hikes to Backcountry Pueblos

Park Tours, PNHP News

Pecos, NM:– Pecos National Historical Park offers the last of two special backcountry hikes for 2021.  

Arrowhead Pueblo  

Arrowhead Pueblo hike - Park Ranger Susan describes the pueblo site
Arrowhead Pueblo hike – Park Ranger Susan describes the pueblo site

Join rangers for a free tour of the seldom-seen Arrowhead Pueblo on Sunday, September 12th.This one-mile roundtrip visit to the 14th 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  

Forked Lightning Pueblo hike - Old Blue stop
Forked Lightning Pueblo hike – Old Blue stop

Explore the site of the Forked Lightning Pueblo on Saturday, September 11th. 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 (505) 757-7241.  

You will also find our listings on the New Mexico True website (newmexico.org) and Tourism Santa Fe (santafe.org). Please like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PecosNHPnps or Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/pecos_nps).  

From I-25: Due to upcoming road construction, it is recommended that you take the Rowe Exit, #307. Follow signs. From Highway 63, the park will be on your left.