SILVER CITY, NM, Nov. 4, 2024 – On Monday, November 11, our country will honor veterans of all wars with a national holiday of observance, Veterans Day. All U.S. government offices, including those of the Gila National Forest, will be closed, and the day is designated as 2024's final fee-free day on federal public lands.
"Veterans Day is a great day to visit Catwalk National Recreation Trail, not just because the fee is lifted for the day, but for the opportunity for one last visit before the ice and cold of winter set in," said Gila National Forest Supervisor Camille Howes. "I extend my sincerest gratitude to those who have served our country, whether during peace or in wartime, and I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy a day of peaceful relaxation this Veterans Day."
If you head out to the woods this Veterans Day weekend, please do your part to protect our shared public lands. Pack out your trash and remember that fire danger is currently "high". Be careful with vehicles and fire – avoid parking your hot vehicle over tall grasses, do not allow chains to drag behind you as you drive, dispose of cigarettes properly, and never leave a campfire unattended. To properly extinguish your campfire, douse it with plenty of water and use a shovel to stir water and coals together. Use the back of your hand to feel for heat, adding more water and stirring again, until the coals are cool to the touch. For more information contact Maribeth Pecotte at 575-388-8211 or
