1926-2026
100 Years of Treks
* This photo is not AI-generated. It really is this beautiful here!
At Cottonwood Gulch Expeditions, our purpose is to inspire and empower Trekkers of all ages by immersing them in the natural world in the Southwest. Since 1926, our staff and volunteers have provided transformative outdoor experiences using innovative methods that connect individuals with nature, communities, and themselves. We are cultivating a sense of independence, responsibility, and stewardship in every generation of adventurers.
Sparking curiosity and connecting communities
to the outdoors since 1926.
- Summer Treks are experiential learning opportunities for ages 8-18 that dive into pristine backpacking and hiking trails, hands on science, cultural exploration, and place-based education in the American Southwest.
- School Treks concentrate on learning in the outdoor classroom, working with both local and national youth to facilitate environmental education in New Mexico and the Southwest.
- Adult Treks include treks for those 18 and older including Flocks and Rocks, Youth Conservation Corps, and Wilderness Medicine certification programs. Each is tailored to provide unique and enriching experiences that inspire and empower every generation of adventurers.
Find Your Next Trek
Explore our outdoor learning programs for your classroom
Join us as we celebrate a century of trekking!
Learn about our regional events, basecamp celebrations, and much more.
Our Partners & Collaborators
We are honored by our partnerships that help our trekkers excel and thrive while on the trail and living in community with us. Some of these amazing past and current collaborators include the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, NM Outdoor Recreation Division, Albuquerque Involved, Forest Stewards Guild/Gallup-Grants Learning Exchange, Forest Stewards Guild (the Guild), The Ember Alliance, The Nature Conservancy, Bachechi Open Space, Ancestral Lands Conservation Corps, Hózhó Academy, Zuni Youth Enrichment Project, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, The Wilderness Society, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), City of Albuquerque, and Ancestral Lands Conservation Corps.
100 Years of The Gulch Way
One of our founding core values is Connected Communities. Each year is an opportunity for us to expand our strong network of passionate trekkers of all ages and help them to open doors of exploration and personal discovery.
We value a spirit of curiosity and teamwork, problem solving and perseverance and we know you do too. Your donations help us keep the Gulch accessible for all families. Every dollar goes toward opening the door to life-changing experiences for future trekkers.
