Discover caves found in the volcanic tuff formations that show evidence of prehistoric human habitation. The corn found in the rock shelters at Pena Blanca has dated as far back as 1175 B.C. (3175 years Before Present). Archaeological evidence points to the rock shelters having been used over a long period of time by both Archaic period populations (6000 B.C. to A.D. 200/400) and Jornada Mogollon populations (A.D. 200/400 to A.D. 1450) from approximately 2088 B.C. to A.D. 1420.
This is an easy to moderate 4-miles hike (round trip) at the southern end of the Organ Mountains. The climb to the top of Pena Blanca is about 300 feet. Bring: 2 liters of water and snacks and wear sturdy hiking boots/shoes. Bring a mask. The event is pet friendly if your dog is trained and socialized to people and other dogs. Bring water and pick up bags. There is no fee.
Meet at Cabela’s near Artcraft and the freeway (MAP) at 8:00 AM to carpool or caravan. Then head north on I-10 West to exit #151 Mesquite. Then turn right and drive 5 miles to the parking area. The road starts out paved, then becomes a good gravel road; the last mile is a hard-packed jeep road. The parking area will be on the left. The hike begins at 9:00 AM.
Hike guide and leader: Garrett Leitermann, archaeologist with the BLM Las Cruces District Office.
Hike leader and contact: Carol Brown 915-630-1424.
Photo by Patti Carey
Photo by Patti Carey
Photo by Patti Carey