Gila National Forest

At 3.3 million acres, Gila National Forest is the largest national forest in New Mexico and one of the largest in the contiguous United States. It’s also home to the Gila Wilderness, the first designated wilderness area in the world, set aside in 1924 largely through the efforts of conservationist Aldo Leopold, who worked here as a forest ranger.

This is remote country. The roads are long, cell service is sparse, and vast stretches of the forest remain largely unchanged from what early explorers encountered more than a century ago.

Why Go

The Gila is defined by its contrasts — deep river canyons, pine-covered ridgelines above 10,000 feet, hot spring-fed pools, and a climate that swings dramatically. The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument sits inside the forest and protects 700-year-old Mogollon ruins built into natural cave alcoves above the Gila River.

Top Spots

• Gila Cliff Dwellings — a one-mile loop through ancient Mogollon cliff homes
• Gila Hot Springs area — developed and undeveloped soaking options near the Gila River
• The Catwalk Recreation Area — a dramatic steel walkway suspended through Whitewater Canyon
• Willow Creek / Snow Lake area — remote camping with stunning meadow and mountain views
• Black Range — less-visited ridgeline with multiple wilderness zones

Getting There

Silver City is the main gateway. Take NM-15 north (twisty, slow — plan on 1.5 hours for 44 miles) to reach the Gila Cliff Dwellings. NM-35 offers a longer but faster alternate route around the east side.