Pinos Altos New Mexico

For breathtaking scenery, beautiful light and outdoor adventure, head to Pinos Altos New Mexico. Nestled in the Gila wilderness at 7000 feet, Pinos Altos is a charming historical town. The Hearst Methodist Church (1898), built by the famous newspaper Hearst family, is now home for the Grant County Art Guild. Bring your wallet to this stop, you may fall in love with the unique and chic art on display.

Hearst Methodist Church

Pinos Altos charm draws crowds from all around at the Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House where you can get an excelent steakhouse style meal and enjoy live music and dancing. Also, be sure to stop in at the Post Office. Not only is it a place for locals to pick up their mail, but it also serves up the best ice cream around. Pick up some homemade jams and jellies while your there. They are delicious.

The town is only a short walk from the Gila National Forest where you will find endless trails, beautiful waterfalls and wildflowers. Hike along the continental divide and enjoy the breathtaking views. During the summer months, be sure to bring your rain gear, the afternoon rains will drench you.




Lance finishes 2nd in the Tour of the Gila 2010
Tentative dates for 2011 Tour of the Gila race are
April 27th - May 1st

 

The Tour of the Gila is another big attraction for bike riders and enthusiast. Here you can find Lance Armstrong, who uses Tour of the Gila to prep for Tour de France. The 341 mile race spans 5 days and finishes on Main Street Pinos Altos. I once rented an adorable mountain cabin (Red Roof Cottage) right on Main Street and enjoyed the comforts of home while watching the race finish just a few feet from our front door. We joined the end of race festivities down the road from the cottage and celebrated till the stars were bright in the crisp night sky.  It is definately an event to put on your list and one I will do again. 





The Red Roof Cottage
An adorable mountain cabin just 2 block from the Buckhorn Saloon in Pinos Altos

  Silver City, just down the hill, is home to Western New Mexico University. This art filled town hosts the annual Silver City Blues Festival, a three day concert and art festival with street dancing and fun. Held on Memorial Day weekend, it's a great place to be.

Here are more pictures I took while I was there...



behind adobe walls in Pinos Altos



Walking home from the Blues Festival



Stairs at the Catwalks (another amazing place to visit)



The Gila Wilderness