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Visit dark sky parks, canyon catwalks, cave dwellings, majestic mountain scenery and experience the adventure you've been missing!

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Sunrise from Emory Pass. Courtesy photo by James Apodaca.

With 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 magnificent mountain scenery, cool summer temperatures and relatively warm winters permit a wide range of recreational opportunities during all seasons.

Preparing for Your Visit to the Gila National Forest

Discover More About the Gila National Forest

  • 2023 Prescribed Fire Review

    District Fire Management Officer Aaron Jones explains the recent prescribed fires on the Gila National Forest and how the Forest Service helps to manage the land. 

Features

A Path through the Wilderness: The Story of Forest Road 150

photo of Black Canyon Bridge on North Star Road

Imagine the world in 1875. The Civil War has been over for ten years. The normal mode of transportation in southern New Mexico is either horseback, or a horse-drawn wagon. Black cavalry and infantry troops, known as Buffalo Soldiers, were sent to the American West to take part in the Indian wars and the protection of settlers.

 

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