The Gila is 3.3 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.
Imagine the world in 1875. The Civil War has been over for five 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.
Forest System Road (FSR) 150 began its life as the North Star Road in the 1870s. Used primarily as a military road, it connected several military forts and camps in the area during the Apache-U.S. Army conflicts in the late 1800s. Citizens of Grant County also thought it would provide safer passage to and from the Mimbres Valley and Silver City Area than other routes.
Boasting some of the darkest nights in the Southwest, the Gila National Forest offers many visitors the chance to view and admire the natural night sky.
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