Activity Guide
Gallup, New Mexico
Renowned as an international source for Native American art and crafts – but Gallup is so much more…dining – from fast food to southwestern to fine cuisine, University of New Mexico – Gallup, libraries, golf, museums, many places of worship, medical services, recreational facilities. From Zimmerman’s historic dry goods store, to home improvement and retail super stores, all your shopping needs are available.
Best of all Gallup is a diverse community that values its history but is moving forward to answer to the needs of modern society. Gallup’s stretch of Historic Route 66 runs through Gallup and is virtually unchanged. All the amenities and services, only 20 minutes from Tampico Springs Ranch.
McGaffey Lake is about 5 minutes from the Ranch and few areas surpass McGaffey Lake for scenery. Situated as it is in an open forest of ponderosas lined by gaudy, impossible sunsets that sweep across this country each summer evening.
At an elevation of 7,600 feet, the lake is stocked with rainbow trout. Fishing is regularly good, and nearby scenic and historic sites add to this lake’s attractions.
The Department of Game and Fish obtained permission to make dam and spillway improvements and to maintain and operate the lake thus impounded through an easement with the McKinley County Game Protective Association in 1953 and a special use permit from the U.S. Forest Service in 1954.
Camping and picnicking areas are provided.
Bluewater Lake State Park is popular for boating and year round fishing. Bluewater Lake and Bluewater Creek are stocked with rainbow trout, native or cutthroat trout. Bluewater Lake State Park is 28 miles west of Grants via I-40 and NM 412.
Adjacent Cibola National Forest Mt. Taylor District, is comprised of two mountain ranges, Mt. Taylor and the Zuni Mountains, totaling nearly 520,000 acres. Elevations range from 6,500’ to 11,301’. The forest is home to many wildlife species. Big game animals include deer, wild turkey, and bear. Year-round recreation opportunities abound. Winter snows provide opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Spring offers a rebirth of green mountain meadows and an awakening of the lush forestland. Aspen and Oak trees change color in October providing an opportunity to enjoy nature at its loveliest. Summer is time to explore this vast, magnificent forestland that is your backyard. Enjoy fishing, nature photography, hiking and horseback riding.
Note First United Realty does not warrant the accuracy of this information.
