Day hiking near the Gila Cliff Dwellings offers a chance to explore rugged canyons, scenic river valleys, and high desert landscapes rich with history and wildlife. Hikers can traverse trails that wind through juniper and ponderosa pine forests, past ancient rock formations, and along the Gila River’s meandering waters. The area’s diverse terrain provides opportunities to spot native wildlife, from mule deer to soaring hawks, and to discover a variety of desert plants, including cacti and wildflowers. Whether following well-marked paths or venturing into the backcountry, hiking in this remote and beautiful region offers a true connection to nature and the past.
It is recommended to have the Gila Wilderness map as some trails may be difficult to follow for a variety of factors from wildfire, monsoons, overgrowth and snowmelt. The Gila Cliff Dwellings WNPA Bookstore and any Forest Service district office will have these maps for sale.
This pages and all the other day hike pages on the Gila Cliff Dwellings website serve as a brief overview of these trails to find out more information and trail conditions contact the Gila National Forest.
Wilderness Ranger District: (575) 536-2250 (closed on weekends)
The junction of the Little Bear Canyon Trail #729 and the Middle Fork of the Gila Trail #157.
Courtesy of Gila Trails Info
Little Bear Trail #729
Distance: ~4.5 miles one way Elevation Gain: ~629 feet (one way) Difficulty: Moderate Trailhead: TJ Corral (near Gila Cliff Dwellings)
Overview:
The Little Bear Canyon Trail offers a stunning hike through the Gila Wilderness taking you from high desert terrain into a narrow, scenic slot canyon before reaching the Middle Fork of the Gila. This stretch is a popular route for those heading to Jordan Hot Springs or exploring the rugged beauty of the Gila.
Trail Description:
Starting from TJ Corral, the trail gradually ascends through open terrain with pinon-juniper woolands and volcanic rock formations. The first few miles offer expansive views of the surrounding ridges before the descent into Little Bear Canyon.
Once in the canyon, hikers are treated to towering rock formations, dramatic narrows, and seasonal wildflowers (primarily late spring-fall). The trail meanders through this deep-cut passage, occasionally requiring navigation around small boulders or dry streambeds.
Around mile 4.5, Little Bear Canyon opens up at its junction with the Middle Fork of the Gila river. This spot serves as an excellent area for a picnic lunch. Just remember to pack out what you bring in.
Highlights:
Slot canyon experience with high rock walls and narrow passages
Geological formations showcasing the volcanic history of the Gila
Riparian transition zone at the Middle Fork confluence, with cottonwoods and lush vegetation
Wildlife sightings including mule deer, coatimundi, and diverse bird species
Considerations:
Water availability: carry enough water for a 9 mile hike or filter from the Middle Fork
Possible flash flooding in the canyon during monsoon season
Trail conditions vary, with some loose rock and occasional overgrowth
Best seasons: Fall and spring (after snowmelt) for cooler temperatures and manageable water levels
West Fork Loop (#151, #28, #164, #729)
Distance: ~11 miles round trip Elevation Gain: ~1300 feet Difficulty: Strenuous Trailhead: West Fork Trailhead or TJ Corral (Near Gila Cliff Dwellings)
Overview:
The West Fork Loop Trail is a remote and rugged route that showcases the diverse landscapes of the Gila Wilderness. This trail follows the West Fork of the Gila River, climbing through forested canyons, volcanic cliffs, and high ridges. It offers solitude, stunning views, and an immersive wilderness experience for experienced hikers and backpackers.
Trail Description:
The loop begins near the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, following the West Fork of the Gila River upstream. The early section of the trail features multiple river crossings, so hikers should be prepared for wet feet. The route gradually climbs into higher elevations, transitioning from riparian woodlands to ponderosa pine forestseventually leading to a more strenous climb into Pinyon-Juniper Forests.
As the trail ascends, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Gila Wilderness, with distant mountain peaks and deep canyons stretching in all directions.
Scenic river crossings and lush riparian corridors
Diverse plant life, including cottonwoods, sycamores, and ponderosa pines
Sweeping views from high ridges overlooking the Gila Wilderness
Wildlife sightings, such as elk, black bears, and wild turkeys
Challenging yet rewarding terrain with sections of solitude
Considerations:
Water availability- Water is only available while in the West Fork river Section of this trail. Filter, boil, or chemically treat any water collected before drinking.
River crossings can be deep, especially after snowmelt or monsoons
Navigation skills needed—some sections are less maintained
Best seasons: Fall and spring offer cooler temperatures. Always check river levels before hiking.
Gila River Trail #724
Trailhead: Grapevine Day Use Area Distance: Various (one way) Elevation Gain: Moderate, with some ups and downs along the river Difficulty: Moderate to difficult Trail Type: Out-and-back (or connect with other trails for a loop) Best Seasons: Fall, and late spring (avoid during monsoon season due to flash flood risk or during snowmelt as water can be high)
Trail Description:
Starting at Grapevine day use area, the Gila River Trail #724 follows the Gila River as it winds through a diverse riparian ecosystem. Expect numerous river crossings. Be prepared for wet feet, and potentially deep river crossings during spring runoff or after monsoon rains.
The trail meanders through cottonwood groves, sycamores, willows, and towering Ponderosa pines, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Keep an eye out for mule deer, javelina, and an array of bird species, including flycatchers and warblers.
As you progress, the canyon walls narrow, providing breathtaking views of layered volcanic rock formations.
Hazards:
Flash Flooding: Check weather forecasts before your trip. The Gila River can rise quickly during storms.
Trail Conditions: Portions of the trail can be overgrown, long pants are recommended.
Wildlife: Be mindful of black bears and rattlesnakes in the area. Proper food storage is required for overnight trips.
Trail navigation: Due to invasive clover growth the trail can be difficult to find at times
A dog is on the trail, the West Fork of the Gila riparian zone is visible below
Photo Credit Dana Dick
Woody's Corral to EE Canyon Loop (Trails #160, #162, #163, #151)
Distance: ~7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1000 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Trailhead: Woody’s Corral or West Fork Trailhead (near Gila Cliff Dwellings)
Overview:
The Woody's Corral to EE Canyon Loop is a scenic and diverse hike in the Gila Wilderness, offering canyon views, riparian zones, and high ridges with expansive views. It is ideal for experienced hikers looking for solitude, rugged landscapes, and stunning landscapes.
Trail Description:
Starting at Woody's Corral, the route follows the Granny Mountain Trail #160 for a few miles, gradually ascending toward thejunctions of trails #160 and #162, take trail #162 (right).
After reaching the EE Canyon Junction #163 the terrain becomes rockier and more exposed, with volcanic cliffs and scattered junipers dominating the landscape.
As the trail loops back, it connects to West Fork Trail #151, where you will get your feet wet crossing the West Fork about 3 times before reaching the parking lot for the Gila Cliff Dwellings.
Highlights:
Diverse landscapes, including river valleys, canyons, and ridgelines
Expansive views of the Gila Wilderness from higher elevations
Wildlife sightings can include mule deer, black bears, and various bird species
Considerations:
Water availability: Carry water or filter from the West Fork of the Gila river
River crossings: The West Fork section of this hike will cross the river about 3 times
Exposed sections: This trail can be hot in summer
Best seasons: Fall and spring for cooler temperatures and lower water levels
Navigation skills recommended: EE Canyon Trail may be faint in places
