Every now and then you stumble upon something unplanned during your travels that becomes more memorable that many of the places you were scheduled to visit. Our last minute decision to stop for a quick picnic lunch break at the Aldo Leopold Vista Picnic Area along U.S. 180 in the Gila National Forest, near Glenwood, New Mexico is one of those special unplanned places.
The stunning hillside viewpoint is filled with a heart-stopping panorama of the snow-capped Mogollon Mountains. Meanwhile, each picnic tabletop is adorned with beautifully hand-painted tiles to help celebrate the 100th Anniversary of America’s first wilderness area, the Gila Wilderness in 2024.
These tiles were created/painted by Youth Mural Program participants and their leaders from the greater Silver City area and form a series of lovely mosaics depicting images and quotes related to environmental stewardship, the great Aldo Leopold, and the spectacular array of natural wonders one can find in southwestern New Mexico. The varied tabletop mosaics set against the extraordinary mountain backdrop literally touches your heart and soul.
This is a fantastic example of what great placemaking is all about! Adding artistry and intrigue to our surroundings, whether it be a blank wall, a weedy patch of ground, a set of steps, or adding a touch of colorful panache to a lovely picnic setting. I doubt you’ll ever see more beautiful picnic tabletops anywhere.
Congratulations to the U.S. Forest Service, the Gila National Forest, and Youth Mural Program for this visual treat during our lunch break picnic. Completed during the summer of 2023, the artwork is well worth a visit even if you are not hungry. Also, be sure to take in the stunning scenery while you are there — Mother Nature’s pretty nifty with a paintbrush, too. Peace!
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