Feb 5, 2025 · The Gila National Forest has over three million acres of forested hills, majestic mountains, and range land. It is probably best known for its wilderness areas, in particular the Gila Wilderness - the first wilderness in the United States.

The Gila National Forest is a United States national forest in New Mexico. Established in 1905, it now covers approximately 2,710,659 acres (10,969.65 km 2), making it the sixth largest national forest in the continental United States.

The Gila is not only the nation’s first designated wilderness, it is also New Mexico’s largest wilderness area and offers exceptional opportunities for fishing, hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, and camping.

May 15, 2023 · Tucked beyond New Mexican mountain ranges, the nation’s first official wilderness area offers a rugged, ancient world of hidden canyons. Zack Crockett, a wilderness outfitter, rides along the...

Visitors to the Gila National Forest are met with the stunning Mogollon Mountains, deep canyons, and forests of ponderosa pine and juniper woodlands. Popular activities include hiking, horseback riding, soaking in hot springs, viewing the historic gila cliff dwellings, and wildlife viewing.

May 29, 2024 · The Gila Wilderness, located in southwestern New Mexico’s Gila National Forest, is a remarkable and vast expanse of protected land that holds a special place in the history of conservation and outdoor recreation in the United States.

Gila National Forest is located in southwestern New Mexico on the Arizona line. It shares its western border with Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. There are nearly 2000 miles of trails and the best hikes in Gila National Forest are described below.

Located in New Mexico, the Gila National Forest has spectacular scenery ranging from high cool mountains with aspen and douglas fir to warm semi-arid lowlands with juniper, oak and cactus. It is one of the more remote and least developed National Forests in the southwest.

Explore the most popular backpacking trails in Gila National Forest with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. The route begins with a gradual but challenging uphill section.

Apr 3, 2024 · As the Gila approaches its anniversary, we get a glimpse at some of the interesting, rare, and recent facts about the wilderness area. On June 3, 1924, 755,000 acres were set aside as the Gila Wilderness, the first designated wilderness in …