Gila National Forest Travel Guide

Trek Zone

National park

Facts and practical information

Located in the stunning state of New Mexico, Gila National Forest is a true gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Spanning over 3.3 million acres, this national forest offers an abundance of outdoor activities, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich cultural history that is sure to captivate all who visit.

One of the highlights of Gila National Forest is its diverse range of hiking trails. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just starting out, there is a trail suited to every skill level. The Catwalk Recreation Area is a popular choice, offering a unique experience as you hike along a suspended walkway through a narrow canyon. The breathtaking views and the sound of rushing water make this trail a must-visit.

For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, Gila National Forest offers exceptional opportunities for rock climbing and mountain biking. The rugged terrain and challenging routes provide an exhilarating experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The Mogollon Box Trail System is a favorite among mountain bikers, with its winding trails and stunning vistas.

Nature lovers will be in awe of the diverse wildlife and plant species that call Gila National Forest home. From majestic elk and elusive black bears to the rare Gila trout, the forest is teeming with biodiversity. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the various species of birds that can be observed throughout the forest.

In addition to its natural beauty, Gila National Forest also boasts a rich cultural history. The Mimbres people, an ancient Native American civilization, once inhabited the area and left behind a legacy of intricate pottery and artwork. Visitors can explore the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, where remarkably preserved cliff dwellings provide a glimpse into the lives of these early inhabitants.

Alternative names: Area: 4235.4 mi²Elevation: 8009 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 33°28'12"N, 108°26'56"W

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New MexicoUnited States

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Gila National Forest Top Attractions

Gila National Forest Attractions - What to See and Explore

Gila National Forest offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, Fort Bayard National Cemetery, Mogollon, Big Burro Mountains. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Ancient cave-houses reached by a hike
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is a U.S. National Monument created to protect Mogollon cliff dwellings in the Gila Wilderness on the headwaters of the Gila River in southwest New Mexico.
Cemetery
Fort Bayard National Cemetery
Fort Bayard National Cemetery is a United States National Cemetery in the Fort Bayard Historic District, near Silver City, New Mexico. It encompasses 18.8 acres, and as of the end of 2020, had 6,000 interments. It is one of two national cemeteries in New Mexico, and is administered by Santa Fe National Cemetery.
Town • Park • Neighbourhood
Mogollon
Mogollon, also called the Mogollon Historic District, is a former mining town located in the Mogollon Mountains in Catron County, New Mexico, United States.

Nature • Natural attraction • Natural feature
Big Burro Mountains
The Big Burro Mountains are a moderate length 35-mile long, mountain range located in central Grant County, New Mexico. The range's northwest-southeast 'ridgeline' is located 15 mi southwest of Silver City.
33°2'2"N • 108°10'5"W
Lake Roberts Cabins
Nature • Lake • Hotel
33°26'58"N • 108°40'8"W
Bearwallow Mountain Lookout Cabins and Shed
The Bearwallow Mountain Lookout Cabins and Shed are located in the Bearwallow Park near Mogollon, New Mexico. Built in 1940 by the Works Progress Administration, they are one of three New Deal-era buildings in the Gila National Forest, which also include the El Caso Lookout Complex and the Mangas Mountain Lookout Complex.
Nature • Natural attraction • Mountain
Eagle Peak
Eagle Peak is a mountain in Catron County, western New Mexico, United States, near the town of Reserve. The summit is the highest point in the Tularosa Mountains.
Tower
El Caso Lookout Complex
The El Caso Lookout Complex is located in the Gila National Forest north of Apache Creek, New Mexico. Built in 1934 by the Works Progress Administration, the complex was one of three New Deal-era forest fire lookouts built in Catron County.
Nature • Natural attraction • Volcano
Mogollon-Datil volcanic field
The Mogollon-Datil volcanic field is a large silicic volcanic field in western New Mexico.
33°25'22"N • 108°29'46"W
Snow Lake
Snow Lake is a small reservoir with an adjacent camping area in west central New Mexico. It is located in Gila National Forest at an elevation of 7,313 feet above sea level.
Nature • Natural attraction • Natural feature
Sierra Aguilada
The Sierra Aguilada is a mountain range in southwest Catron County, New Mexico on the eastern perimeter of Arizona's White Mountains.
Nature • Natural attraction • Natural feature
Canyon Creek Mountains
The Canyon Creek Mountains are a short 10 mi long, mountain range located in southeast Catron County, New Mexico near the source of the Gila River and north of the Gila Wilderness.

Day trips

Gila National Forest – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Gila National Forest, it's worth seeing attractions such as: H. B. Ailman House (Silver City), Fleming Hall (Silver City), Western New Mexico University (Silver City).

49 milesS
Museum, History museum
H. B. Ailman House, Silver City
The H. B. Ailman House is a historic house located at 314 W. Broadway in Silver City, New Mexico. Prospector Henry B. Ailman had the house built using his profits from the Naiad Queen Silver Mine in Georgetown; his business partner H. M.
49 milesS
Museum
Fleming Hall, Silver City
Fleming Hall is a historic building on the campus of Western New Mexico University in Silver City, New Mexico. It was built in 1917 as a facility to teach Science and Physical Education. It was remodelled as the university museum and alumni hall in 1973.
49 milesS
History museum, Museum, Universities and schools
Western New Mexico University, Silver City
Western New Mexico University is a public university in Silver City, New Mexico. It was founded in 1893.
49 milesS
32°46'12"N • 108°16'41"W
Silver City Museum, Silver City
Historical place, Museum, History museum
14 milesSE
Natural attraction, Mountain
Black Mountain, Gila Wilderness
Black Mountain is a mountain located in Catron County, New Mexico, on the northern boundary of the Gila Wilderness and in the Gila National Forest.