Tonuco Fluorite Mine & Petroglyphs (with Celebration of Our Mountains)

Distance: an approximate 3 mile out-and-back. We were previously able to drive into and down the wash last fall, but if for some reason we can't this time, there may be an additional 2 miles of hiking.
Elevation Gain: 225 feet (petroglyphs) to 800 feet (fluorite mine)
Duration: 2 hours hiking plus drive time (45 minutes north of Las Cruces)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Petroglyphs) to High-Moderate (Fluorite mine)

This hike leads past some Jornada Mogollon petroglyphs, then continues up a steep canyon to an abandoned mine, featuring fluorite that glows under black light. The surrounding area has many other interesting rocks and minerals including petrified wood, barite, obsidian, etc.

You do NOT need a 4WD vehicle; we will have trucks and jeeps for shuttling people from the parking area down into the Tonuca Wash and onward to the base of the canyon hike. This makes for a much shorter and easier way to explore this trail.

The mine is the most interesting part of the hike, but the final, steep ascent may pose challenges for those with limited abilities or balance issues. If anyone chooses to turn around at the petroglyphs, we'll make sure someone stays behind with you.

This hike will be led by geologists from Celebration of Our Mountains - El Paso, who will explain the geological forces that shaped this region.

What to Bring:

• At least one liter of water per person (2 would be better)
• Snacks for energy if going all the way to the mine. This is not a long hike, but the uphill scrambling can be taxing.
• Hiking boots with good ankle support.
• A flashlight for the mine, and a daypack for bringing back rock specimens.
• A U/V ("black light") flashlight if you have one; the fluorite glows under this light.
• Hat, sunscreen, jacket or layers for changing desert weather

Directions:

• AllTrails Map of the main hike
• Google Map Directions to the area.
• From Las Cruces, take I-25 north to the Upham exit (exit 32). Pull over to the side of the road near the bottom of this exit; we will wait here for the El Paso contingent.

Caution/Disclaimer: Hikers are responsible for their own personal safety/health and of their guests when participating in Las Cruces Short Hikes activities. The organizers of Las Cruces Short Hikes are not liable for any illness, injury, accident, mechanical break-down, or unforeseen acts that may occur while you participate going to, during, or after any activity. If you have a medical condition that may be aggravated by any kind of physical activity you must make your own personal decision about attending and not hold any of the volunteer organizers liable. All organizers are volunteers and are not compensated during any activity.