Gas and Galaxy Evolution Hiking

There will be two "official" hikes associated with the conference, "official" meaning that transportation will be arranged and local guides provided. Currently we're planning on having sign-up sheets at the conference.

Monday 22may00 5:30-7:30am: Canyon Trail near the Bosque del Apache

We will organize an early morning hike in the Bosque del Apache area 18 miles South of Socorro. Around sunrise, we will explore a small canyon area just West of the actual Bosque. This is a circular hike which takes about one hour to complete. Though there is some elevation gain, one does not have to be an experienced hiker to complete this hike; walking shoes or sneakers will be fine. Afterwards, if there is enough interest, we will stop at one of the many breakfast places in Socorro before moving on to the AOC in time for the program to start. We expect to leave from the motels between 5:30am and 5:45am.

Thursday 25may00 (all day): the Magdalena Mountains

For those that plan to stay in Socorro after the conference, we will organize a more strenuous hike in the Magdalena Mountains, located 30 minutes West of Socorro. In all likelihood we will start from an elevation of 7000ft (2130m) and climb Mount Baldy, at 10,600ft (3216m) the highest mountain within a 100-mile radius. This hike really should only be attempted by reasonably fit and experienced hikers. For those planning to go on this hike, bring a daypack, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, a hat, food, and enough water (between 0.5 and 1 gallon; 2 - 4 liters.) We will probably leave around 9 or 10am; allow for 4 - 6 hours to complete the hike.

The local mountains are among the glories of the southwestern United States, and should definitely not be missed! See the sections on Socorro and New Mexico on the Local Information page, along with GORP/NM, for more information -- there's too much to list individually here.