BLM Offers Guided Hikes in Prehistoric Trackways National Monument
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The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Las Cruces District is hosting two guided hikes in the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument (Monument) on November 19 and December 17, 2016. The Monument is located off Picacho Boulevard, a half mile east of Shalem Colony and Rocky Acres Road on Permian Tracks Road in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Hikers are asked to meet the BLM paleontologist at the second Monument parking lot past the interpretive signs to begin the hike promptly at 9 a.m. The three-mile, round-trip hike will be on rough and rocky terrain, so appropriate shoes, clothing, and sun protection is advised. Also, since the hike will be approximately 3 hours long, hikers are advised to bring snacks and enough water to stay adequately nourished and hydrated.
Covering 5,280 acres of public land, the Monument was established in 2009. The Monument includes a major deposit of Paleozoic Era fossilized footprints of numerous amphibians, reptiles, insects, plants, and petrified wood dating back 280 million years ago – before the dinosaurs roamed.
Hikers will enjoy the scenic landscape of the Robledo Mountains, while learning about the nationally important paleontological, scientific, educational, and recreational values contained on BLM-managed public lands. By request, the BLM is also offering the guided hikes in Spanish.
For more information on the guided hikes, the public can contact Daniella Barraza, BLM Park Ranger, at 575-525-4487 or at dbarraza@blm.gov. Additional information and maps for the Prehistoric Trackways and other BLM National Monuments can be found at www.blm.gov.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.