View of Organ Mountains from Tortugas Mountain, Las Cruces, NM

This is a moderately strenuous hike up a canyon on the east side of Tortugas Mountain to collect several minerals. Experienced hikers only. Calcite as well as purple, pink, blue-green, and clear fluorite have been found at this location. This is an abandoned mining area that has been remediated for safety, but the trail up to the mining area is not well maintained so this is for experienced hikers only. Your guide is Eric Kappus, a geologist and professor at Southwest University.

Meet at the Monte Vista Trail Parking Lot on the east side of Tortugas ”A” Mountain off Dripping Springs Road. (MAP)