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Catwalk National Recreation Trail

Gila National Forest, New Mexico · 3 min read

Distance
2.1 mi
Elevation Gain
200 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
March through November
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
At Trailhead
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Historic metal catwalk bolted to canyon walls above Whitewater Creek
  • Narrow slot canyon with water rushing below the walkway
  • Unique industrial history: the catwalk served a silver mining water pipeline
  • Excellent canyon birdwatching including zone-tailed hawk
  • Short, accessible approach with dramatic payoff

Overview

The Catwalk National Recreation Trail is one of the most unusual short hikes in Gila National Forest and in the Southwest. The trail follows a metal walkway bolted directly to the walls of Whitewater Creek Canyon, suspended above the rushing creek through a slot gorge only wide enough for the walkway itself. The industrial heritage of the trail (it was originally a maintenance walkway for a silver mine water pipeline in the 1890s) adds historical dimension to the geological spectacle.

The route ends where the canyon opens slightly beyond the catwalk section, at the boundary of the Gila Wilderness.

The Route

Miles 0.0 to 0.3: Trailhead to Canyon Entry

The trail follows a clear path through a broader section of the Whitewater Creek valley before entering the canyon. The creek is visible and audible throughout.

Miles 0.3 to 1.0: Catwalk Section

The trail transitions onto the metal catwalk structure bolted to the canyon walls. The walkway varies in width from about 3 feet to less than 2 feet in the narrowest sections. The creek rushes below, sometimes directly underfoot through metal grating. The canyon walls rise 50 to 80 feet on both sides.

Miles 1.0 to 1.05: Wilderness Boundary Turnaround

The catwalk ends at the Gila Wilderness boundary, where the canyon opens. This is the standard turnaround point.

Miles 1.05 to 2.1: Return

Return via the same route on the catwalk.

When to Hike

March through November is the full season. Summer monsoon rains can raise creek levels quickly; do not use the catwalk during or immediately after heavy rain. Flash flood risk in the narrow canyon is real.

Winter the catwalk may be icy. The recreation area remains open.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 1 liter of water for this short walk. Non-slip footwear is important on the metal catwalk surfaces, which can be wet and slippery. Keep children close in the narrow catwalk sections.

Trailhead Access

The Catwalk Recreation Area is located off NM-159 near Glenwood, New Mexico. No fee to park or hike (as of 2026). Flush toilets and water available at the recreation area. Dogs must be leashed.

Nearby

Whitewater Baldy Summit Trail departs from the same general trailhead area and provides the long-distance alpine counterpart to this short canyon walk. Gila River Canyon Trail at the cliff dwellings is the forest's signature multi-day canyon route.

Check flash flood warnings at checking conditions before you go before any canyon visit during monsoon season. Practice Leave No Trace principles throughout.

Trailhead Parking

Catwalk Recreation Area parking off NM-159 near Glenwood. Paved lot with full facilities.

← Back to Gila National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Catwalk?
In the 1890s, a silver mine at the head of Whitewater Canyon required a water pipeline to operate. Workers laid a pipe along the canyon wall and built catwalks beside it for maintenance access. The original catwalk was replaced and rebuilt several times; the current structure follows the same canyon corridor.
How long does the Catwalk Trail take?
The 2.1-mile out-and-back takes most visitors 1 to 1.5 hours, though the narrowest sections require careful walking.
Is the Catwalk Trail dog friendly?
Dogs are allowed on the Catwalk Trail and should be leashed. The narrow metal catwalk sections can be challenging for some dogs.