SILVER CITY MONASTERY / GILA CATWALK / MOGOLLON

We first visit Our Lady of Guadalupe Benedictine Monastery in the forest outside of Silver City. Behind the church grille we attend the 9:30 Latin mass with Gregorian chant. The experience is deeply moving even if one is not Catholic or religious, but the absolute respect and decorum of gracious guests is expected.

Following the mass we meet with one or two of the Benedictine brothers for conversation and questions, first at a seating area and then at the bookstore/gift shop. Afterward we return to the church for the ten-minute noon (sext) office. Proceeds from ticket revenue benefit the monastery. The trip is limited to twenty-two participants.

After lunch (on your own, options in Silver City are here) we regroup at 3:00 about 1.5 hours north of Silver City in Glenwood for a short hike at the Catwalk Recreation Area. See a video here.

We then drive about thirteen miles on a mountain road for a walk through the ghost town of Mogollon. Those returning to Albuquerque and Santa Fe can continue homeward thereafter via Datil and Magdalena to I-25 at Socorro.

Some interesting lodging options near Silver City include the Bear Mountain Lodge, Nan Ranch, and the downtown Murray Hotel. There are also several chain hotel, airbnb, and other options. Lodgings near the catwalk include Double T; and in Mogollon the Silver Creek Inn. The Buckhorn Saloon in Pinos Altos is an interesting dinner/drinks option near Silver City. The Mimbres pottery exhibit at the WNMU Museum is exceptional.