Located in the Cibola National Forest in New Mexico.

This 44,650-acre wilderness designated by Congress in 1980 includes the higher elevations of the southern San Mateo Mountains. The topography is rugged, with many narrow, steep canyons bisecting high mountain peaks. Vegetation includes pinion-juniper in lower elevations; ponderosa pine in middle elevations; and spruce, fir, and aspen in higher elevations.

This wilderness was named after the Apache Kid, a renegade Indian who angered local ranchers with his raids. A posse trailed him to Blue Mountain, killed him, and blazed a nearby tree which is still visible today.

A trail system of 68 miles, one-third of which is in a primitive condition, provides access into the area. Water is limited to less than a dozen somewhat dependable locations. Information on current conditions can be obtained from the Cibola National Forest's Magdalena Ranger.

For more information contact: The Cibola National Forest