​https://cottonwoodgulch.org/
9223 4th St NW
Albuquerque, NM 87114

“A gulch is a deep V-shaped valley formed by erosion. It may contain a small stream or dry creek bed and is usually larger in size than a gully. A flash flood may fill the gulch with a torrent of rain.”

by Michael Leppert

The Great Southwest is one of the most beautiful regions of the United States. Cottonwood Gulch Expeditions makes it available to us in all its desert splendor and wonder, up close and personal, exploring its mysteries deeply. The huge expanses of blue sky, low humidity and colorful, captivating mountains and sandy stretches to infinity, make the Southwest truly unique in the world. It also provides a powerful Native American presence that makes one want to respect the earth and allow future generations to enjoy it.

For 99 years, Cottonwood Gulch Expeditions has offered families a broad spectrum of treks to bring young people into the New Mexico countryside. Currently, there are 9 Summer Treks, each with a different focused goal and age range. The overall age range of the treks is from 8 to 18 in various groupings. The Turquoise Trek is for female-identifying trekkers, the Prairie Trek is for male-identifying trekkers and the Family Trek is self-explanatory. The Get Outdoors Trek (GO! Trek) is a perfect introductory trek for 8-12-year-olds, to the Gulch and to outdoor living.

There is a Paleontology Trek (June 21 to July 11, 2025) that provides guided field experience in this scientific discipline and includes two museum visits to see scientists and serious students at work. It also provides 4 credit hours from Mesalands Community College.

But kids don’t have all of the fun! Cottonwood Gulch offers a few Adult Treks, too. See the website for details on these treks.

Finally, Cottonwood Gulch offers a variety of school programs. Homeschoolers might be able to take advantage of these if you have a support group that can register as a class. Contact Director of School Programs, at Theresa.lewis@cottonwoodgulch.org for this feature.

If you are fortunate enough to live near New Mexico, take advantage of Cottonwood’s unique and inviting array of treks. If you don’t live near the Southwest, make a plan to visit Cottonwood and become acquainted with this beautiful, rugged, pure section of our country. You will no doubt fall in love with it!  Ω