Gila Wilderness

Go Wild

Overview

The Gila Wilderness, located in southwestern New Mexico, is the first designated wilderness area in the world. Spanning over 558,000 acres, this vast landscape offers a unique blend of rugged terrain, rich history, and diverse ecosystems. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking to escape into nature, the Gila Wilderness provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Recreational Opportunities

The Gila Wilderness is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its extensive trail system, the wilderness offers countless opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding. Popular trails include the Middle Fork and West Fork trails, which meander alongside the Gila River, providing breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife sightings.

For those interested in fishing, the Gila River and its tributaries are home to various fish species, including the native Gila trout. Anglers can enjoy fly fishing in the pristine waters, surrounded by the tranquility of the wilderness.

Camping is another popular activity, with numerous backcountry campsites available for those who want to immerse themselves in the wilderness experience. Whether you prefer a secluded spot near a river or a campsite with panoramic views, the Gila Wilderness offers something for every camper.

Birdwatchers will find the Gila Wilderness particularly rewarding, with over 300 bird species recorded in the area. From the majestic Bald Eagle to the colorful Painted Redstart, the diversity of birdlife here is truly remarkable.

History of the Gila Wilderness

The history of the Gila Wilderness is as rich and diverse as its landscape. The area was once home to the Mogollon culture, a prehistoric Native American civilization known for their cliff dwellings, some of which can still be seen today at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. These ancient structures provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who once thrived in this rugged environment.

In the early 20th century, the Gila Wilderness became the focus of conservation efforts, thanks to the pioneering work of Aldo Leopold. Leopold, a forest supervisor for the U.S. Forest Service, recognized the need to protect the area from overdevelopment and advocated for its preservation. In 1924, his efforts culminated in the designation of the Gila Wilderness as the first wilderness area in the United States, marking a significant milestone in the history of conservation.

Wildfire History

Wildfire is a natural part of the Gila Wilderness ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining the health and diversity of the landscape. The area's fire history is both complex and fascinating, with some fires serving to rejuvenate the forest, while others have had more devastating impacts.

The Miller Fire of 2011, for example, burned over 88,000 acres, leaving a lasting mark on the landscape. However, the fire also provided an opportunity for new growth, as the flames cleared away dense underbrush and allowed sunlight to reach the forest floor, encouraging the growth of native plants.

In 2012, the Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire became the largest wildfire in New Mexico's history, burning over 297,000 acres within the Gila Wilderness. This fire, like others before it, was a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of fire management in maintaining the health of the wilderness.

Today, the Gila Wilderness continues to recover from these fires, with new vegetation and wildlife returning to the areas that were once charred. The resilience of the wilderness is a testament to the natural processes that have shaped this landscape for thousands of years.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you're planning a day hike or a week-long backpacking trip, the Gila Wilderness offers endless possibilities for adventure. Be sure to check trail conditions and weather forecasts before your trip, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the beauty of this incredible wilderness for future generations.

Please make sure that you get your Gila Wilderness Map at the Forest Service office in Silver City or Mimbres. The WNPA Book Store or Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center does not sell or give out this map.