Geologic Wonders

The Gila National Forest lies mainly within the Mogollon Plateau of the Mogollon-Datil volcanic field. Volcanism, the phenomenon of eruption of molten rock (magma) onto the surface of the earth, in the Mogollon Plateau began approximately 40 million years ago. The volcanic activity is responsible for the occurrence of Agate, Banded Agate, Bloodstone, Bytownite, Calcite, Chalcedony, Crystaline, Fire Agate, Geodes, Golden Luna Agate, Halite, Hematite, Hypersthene, Jasper, Labrodorite, Lava's, Luna Blue Agate, Obsidian, Perlite, Plume Agate, Quartz Crystals, Spotted Agate, and Thunder Eggs to name a few.

The Gila River and other drainages have cut deep canyons, revealing vertical cliffs with columns and steeple-like rock spires. Elevated overlooks provide long-range views of the repeating ridges and valleys of the Gila.

The Mogollon Rim, visible along the western side of the forest contains the Gila's highest peaks at over 10,000 feet in elevation.