Day Hikes in the Gila

The WNPA Bookstore as well as the Gila National Forest district offices sell both the Gila Day Hiking map (area immediately around the Gila Cliff Dwellings) and the Gila Wilderness map.

For the Gila National Forest Map and Aldo Leopold Wilderness Map purchase at any of the Gila National Forest offices.


Check the weather before dayhiking. Monsoon season can cause flashflooding in canyons. Winter can bring sub freezing temperatures and ice.

Please note that the hikes listed below may not be near the Gila Cliff Dwellings as this list is meant to show popular day hikes throughout the Gila National Forest, Gila Wilderness and the Aldo Leopold Wilderness.

For more information on these hikes contact the Gila National Forest (The Gila National Forest offices are closed on weekends and holidays).

  • Silver City District: (575) 388-8201

  • Glenwood District: (575) 539-2481

  • Wilderness District: (575) 536-2250

  • Black Range District: (575) 894-6677

  • Reserve District: (575) 533-6605


The Gila offers plenty of hiking oppurtunities for those that only have the day to explore. From the Catwalk National Recreation Trail to the popular #729 Little Bear Canyon Trail. In the Gila there is a day hike for everyone! Click the area you'll be near below to find what day hikes you'll be near!
 
A river runs through a canyon surrounded by lush vegetation, rock spires tower in the background
Day Hikes Near the Gila Cliff Dwellings

There are many options for additional day hiking in the Gila Wilderness while you're visiting the Gila Cliff Dwellings.

a fork in a trail splitting off in two directions, storm clouds build in the sky
Day Hikes Near Silver City

Want to stay closer to town? There are some great options for day hiking in the Gila near Silver City

A trail winds through a narrow canyon with yellow-colored rocks, small trees are growing nearby.
Day Hikes Near Mimbres

Planning on driving through the Mimbres Valley, there are some amazing spots for some shorter or longer day hikes in this region!

A steep Canyon with mountains on the opposite side, some of the northern facing slopes have snow.
Day Hikes Near Glenwood

Heading North on the 180 towards Glenwood? Check out some of these hikes that provide excellent views of the Mogollon Mountains

A sunrise overlooking mountains
Day Hikes Near Emory Pass

Travelling on the 152 from or towards Truth or Consequences? Check out some of these hikes located within the Black Range of the Gila

A trail cuts through a forest a cut log is visible in the foreground.
Day Hikes Near Snow Lake

Want to experience the northern end of the Gila. Bring a high clearance car up to Snow Lake to experience a different side of the Gila!

 

Last updated: March 15, 2025

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Mailing Address:

26 Jim Bradford Trail
Mimbres, NM 88049

Phone:

(575) 323-2904

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