Black Range Ranger District
The Black Range Ranger District is located in the eastern most portion of the Gila National Forest in southwest New Mexico and comprises 557,573 acres. A large portion of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness lies within the Black Range Ranger District.
The Black Range Mountains stand as a prominent landmark on the district. Elevations here range between 4,200 feet to over 10,000 feet along the Continental Divide. Precipitation varies from 12 inches in the southern woodlands to over 20 inches in the higher elevations. The district features a great diversity of habitats, from desert and arid grasslands to a mixed conifer forest of spruce and fir above 9,000 feet. Pinon and juniper woodlands and ponderosa pine dominate the landscape between 6,500 and 8,000 feet.
Truth or Consequences is located in the Rio Grande Valley of southern New Mexico. Originally Palomas Hot Springs, the town changed its name to Truth or Consequences in 1950. Ralph Edwards, producer of "Truth or Consequences", a popular radio program, challenged any town in the United States to change its name to the same as the program in return for national advertising. As a result of the name change, Truth or Consequence (T or C) has enjoyed the yearly arrival of Hollywood celebrities to celebrate the Ralph Edwards Fiesta.
Contact the district office at 575-894-6677
General Information
There are numerous recreation opportunities on the Black Range District. It is best known for access to the rugged Aldo Leopold Wilderness although the Black and Silver fires have changed the landscape of some areas. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and a large portion of the Geronimo Trail Scenic Byway crosses the district. Dispersed camping opportunities abound.
The community of T or C is a full-service community of approximately 7,000 friendly people. Elephant Butte Lake State Park located just east of town and Caballo Lake State Park located just southeast of town provides residents and visitors with exquisite recreational opportunities including skiing and fishing. Culturally and historically unique, T or C and the surrounding areas offer a multitude of recreational opportunities including water sports, golfing, natural hot springs, hunting, fishing, and sightseeing. The picturesque Gila National Forest is on the western horizon inviting people to explore its rugged peaks and canyons. New Mexico Highways 152 and 59 provide primary access to the district.
Passes & Permits
There are no fees that apply to facilities on the Black Range Ranger District.
Rentals & Guides
Please contact the Gila National Forest Supervisors Office at 575-388-8201 for information about outfitters and guides who are authorized to operate on the forest.
Recreation Sites
Caledonia CDNST #74 Trailhead
Circle Seven #106 Trailhead
Continental Divide #74 Trailhead
Forest Boundary Kiosk
Kingston Campground
Lake #110 Trailhead
Lookout Mountain CDNST Trailhead
Meadow #53 Trailhead
Turkey Run #42 Trailhead
Wolf Hollow #773 Trailhead