If I had to describe this place in one word, I would say 'sanctuary.' The Catwalk Recreation Area is a compact gem of stupendous beauty. I'd say it's one of the can't miss locations among the many in this state. Although I had seen some photos and videos, they didn't prepare me for the overwhelming experience. It's a canyoned, slot canyoned, nature trailed, tree-lined, water featured, and wildlife wonder courtesy of a built-for-the-ages metal catwalk that floats through much of it as you are suspended between ground and sky. I've seen so many places of natural beauty that I don't get as impressed or as thrilled as I did when I was younger. However, here, I can't think of enough superlatives to say how amazed I was. This place can easily fill with people on nice weekend days. I chose a cold weekday morning and I had the place to myself for a few hours. I considered that time an honor as I walked the catwalk gazing up to the cliff faces and sky while listening to the subdued roar of the water passing by below. I took time to descend from the catwalk and sit at a few places at the water's edge. I hike and camp and bicycle and, while they offer exercise and joy, the Catwalk Recreation Area seems to have its own built-in stress relief feature. This is such an embracing and calming place that can lift you up and say don't lose sight of all the good things in the world. read more

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The Catwalk is so beautiful. The boardwalk itself is higher above the water than I anticipated and much shorter in distance than I expected. Regardless the feeling entering the canyon after the catwalk is almost surreal the rocks seem as if they just fell minutes before arriving. Almost like stepping in the Flintstones cartoon. I suggest going here, bring lots of water and snacks and wear a hat plus sunscreen the sun is very direct and hot. Not much shade until you get up the river a ways. I would say I think smaller dogs paws would not be comfortable on the catwalks metal grating but large dogs seemed very comfortable walking on it. read more

Maps leave a lot to be desired. Lots of people couldn't figure out which way to go. We left.

Pretty and easy little walk/hike. We enjoyed chasing the small waterfalls. Since we visited in November, the trees were changing colors. It was very beautiful. read more

Decided to stop here on my 2nd trip to Gila National Forest. was a last minute find and wow was I happy I made the choice to add it to the route. Absolutely beautiful area!! great for all ages, pet friendly. *note if you are afraid of heights you will struggle here* The catwalk is a suspended system at points 40-50 feet above the ground. The trail was closed at the back (after the catwalk) due to some issues. I think maybe falling rocks or maybe letting it rest for a while. So we only got to walk the main front section. It is amazing!! Defiantly a gem! read more

One of my favorite places. It's gorgeous. Great place to bring kids and even the family dog. If you have mobility issues, this is a great place. The water is so peaceful, I could take a nap listening to it. Pack a picnic lunch. While in Glenwood, check out McClarnan's Garden for breakfast or lunch. It's a beautiful and healthy place to eat. read more

An amazing day trip. Such a gem! If you're ever in the Gila National Forest near Glenwood, this is a must do. Nice stream runs through the park it was shallow enough that we did the whole hike through the water. Recommend to bring water shoes and a bathing suit if you decide to do that route. Another option is going on land but walking thru the river was amazing. Great place to beat the heat with the family and friends. This is one of my favorite destinations in the entire region Southwestern New Mexico. All in all this is absolutely one of the very greatest places to go for outdoor recreation beautiful scenery photography and swimming hole type swimming in a dry desert. The Catwalk is Beautiful Whether it's Your First Time or Your 10th Time. read more

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Very scenic and unique! Short hike along the catwalk is easy. More difficult section at the end. TIP: wear bug Net over your head or failing that your Covid mask. Seriously. Thousands of small green bugs constantly flying in your face! They don't bite, just annoying read more

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If you like hiking and/or being outdoors this is a beautiful place to check out. You'll see lots of greenery, rocks and the best part of it all... streams of water! You can also get into the water or just soak your feet. The water was about one or two feet deep in most spots. It's cool water but feels good on a hot day. The hiking trail is mostly nice and smooth. It even has a nice walkway with rails throughout most of it...hence the Catwalk. It's about 1 mile total to do the trail. Be very careful towards the end because it's somewhat steep and slippery. There's no rails either. Although I only got a few scrapes, I slipped at the end of the trail. I would recommend wearing pants and a long sleeve shirt if possible. I would definitely wear tennis or hiking shoes/boots. Sunblock and water are also good to take. There's a water fountain there. Ladies, no high heels or flip flops! You could take the flip flops for the water but not to walk on the trail. This is also a nice place to have a picnic. There's tables here too. It's $3 a day to park your vehicle here. The nearest larger city is Silver City. I would've given it five stars but because of the fall, I give it four. I guess that was my fault. I'd probably come back in time. It's a nice place to bring older kids, I would say ages 8 and up. I saw smaller kids but I feel that it's not safe. read more

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Great place to enjoy the outdoors and bring visitors. You will find a bbq/picnic area right next to the water. FYI- you'll have to pay a $3 fee per vehicle, but I think it's worth it. read more

What an awesome day trip. Beautiful scenery. There are trails- about a mile of maintained trails suitable for most people. We ended up hiking 2.7 miles. It involved a bit of climbing and some slippery rocks once we left the main tails. We had a six year old and a nine year old so it wasn't too tough even in the most difficult areas. It can be as easy as you need or you can find ways to make it challenging. We ended up isolated in a swimming pool fed by a small waterfall (3 feet). Perfect ideal family situation. The water was clear, cold, and clean. Lots of beautiful rocks and trees. We had an awesome day. Plan on bringing a lunch. I saw people bring dogs and alcohol. Check for rain; it is a flash flood risk. Don't drink the fresh water; pack your own. We would go back for sure. read more

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Definitely fun, fun, fun! Can't wait for it to be rebuilt after all the damage to visit again. Been planning to come here for several years now, and our visit had to be after the devastation. read more

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Cool place to visit and walk the raise trail over the river. Too bad that the whole trail is no longer open. read more

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I love the cat walk and have been many times. I anxiously await the reopening. It is a real gem when it is in operational. I try to make a stop here when I come through this part of New Mexico. It was closed as of 8/16/15 and I do not know when it will reopen. read more

Catwalk Recreation Area - Taken 8/16/15 No estimate as to when it will reopen. Lots of rock and dirt .removed from the road up to the last gate where this sign is - Hiking Near Me - Glenwood, New Mexico

A water filled water low-bridge greeted us past the entrance sign to The Catwalk. It was an easy stroll along a metal walkway above the Whitewater Creek. The Catwalk slowly meanders along the canyon wall for half a mile. Along the stroll were cacti and trees protruding out from the canyon rock walls. The sound of the creek accompanied us along our stroll. We'll certainly make the three and a half hour drive up when they complete more of the walkway. read more

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The Catwalk has been a favorite hiking spot of mine since I was a kid, and it's better now than ever. The trail was recently refurbished and re-opened, and provides a relatively easy 2-mile roundtrip hike on clearly marked trails. If you get tired, park yourself on a rock and stick your feet in the ice-cold water of Whitewater Creek. Listen to the rustle of the sycamores and cottonwoods ... it's one of the most soothing sounds on earth to my ears. Don't be surprised if you come face-to-face with a big-horned sheep! Just stop, and he'll go his own way after he checks you out from a distance. If you're in the Silver City area, a trip to the Catwalk is a MUST. Enjoy! read more

When my cousins asked me if I wanted to walk the catwalk, I thought they were being facetious. I mean I have always wanted to model but my eyes are too close together, and my inverted right foot keeps me out of six inch heels. "No, no, not that kind of cat walk" they exclaimed, this is a hike, a cool, scenic, relaxing hike......so I was in! I can't believe in all of my years of visiting New Mexico, I had not stumbled upon or have been introduced to this gem. My daughter and grandfather accompanied a group of cousins and we had such a relaxing afternoon. There's plenty of picnic tables and BBQs to set up at before you get on the trail. The trail itself is well maintained, it's extremely easy and very beautiful. There's water and falls everywhere all encased in a huge canyon, with humongous boulders everywhere. 90% of the trail is on a man made catwalk, which is steel suspended from the rock, it's pretty amazing. Coming from someone who's tackled Mt. Baldy and Mt. Whitney, this was a wonderful discovery. read more

The Catwalk continues to be one of my favorite day time destinations since I was a kid and now into my 40's. Marvel at this engineering feat and walk over water (I pucker every time!). It leads to a trail you can take- depending on what kind of flooding there was, the trail may be a mess. It was in places, and we had to scramble around and get into the creek to find our way. I understand it leads to a ghost town eventually but it was enough just to enjoy the sounds of nature and enjoy a 2 mile stroll. Good fun. Some picnic tables at the entrance and an outhouse. read more

I think everyone should visit The Catwalks at least once. It is a super cool experience. The suspension bridge is pretty awesome. Also if it is a hot day, jump in the creek to cool off. read more