Eyes of The World Photography

On June 3, 1924, at Aldo Leopold's insistence, Gila became the world's first designated Wilderness area (and also New Mexico's largest Wilderness). Today this is one of the best destinations for backpackers in America.

High mesas, rolling hills, and deep canyons distinguish the eastern portions, as do piñon and juniper woodland and a few grassland areas. Ponderosa pines blanket the central portion, with sheer cliffs outlining the Gila River. The west and southwest portions boast high mountains, particularly the Mogollon Range, with elevations up to 10,895 feet and steep canyons carved from the drainages of Turkey Creek and Mogollon Creek. The star attraction, Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, is in the heart of the area.

The three forks and the Gila River run year-round, with creeks, springs, and tanks serving as alternative water sources. Searching for hot springs is worthwhile, but don't dunk your head in the water if you find one--some of the springs contain a microorganism that can enter the brain and cause death.

An extensive trail system provides access to the Wilderness. Winter temperatures are mild during the day, but they fall to well below freezing at night. July and August suffer the hottest temperatures, along with frequent heavy rains that can produce flash floods.



	The Gila Wilderness

		On June 3, 1924, at Aldo Leopold's insistence, Gila became the world's first designated Wilderness area (and also New Mexico's largest Wilderness). Today this is one of the best destinations for backpackers in America. High mesas, rolling hills, and deep canyons distinguish the eastern portions, as do piñon and juniper woodland and a few grassland areas. Ponderosa pines blanket the central portion, with sheer cliffs outlining the Gila River. The west and southwest portions boast high mountains, particularly the Mogollon Range, with elevations up to 10,895 feet and steep canyons carved from the drainages of Turkey Creek and Mogollon Creek. The star attraction, Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, is in the heart of the area. The three forks and the Gila River run year-round, with creeks, springs, and tanks serving as alternative water sources. Searching for hot springs is worthwhile, but don't dunk your head in the water if you find one--some of the springs contain a microorganism that can enter the brain and cause death. An extensive trail system provides access to the Wilderness. Winter temperatures are mild during the day, but they fall to well below freezing at night. July and August suffer the hottest temperatures, along with frequent heavy rains that can produce flash floods.