Stay Safe

On the vast, 3.3-million-acre landscape of the Gila National Forest, it's easy to get away from it all. Remember that your safety is your number one responsibility! Plan ahead and prepare - know where you are going, the route to get there - and maybe an alternate route or two, what are the road and trail conditions, weather - recent and expected? You can access maps of the forest and contact information on our website. You are encouraged to contact the local office where you are planning to visit ahead of time to find out about current conditions. Be prepared with layered clothing, water, food, and enough other supplies to sustain your visit.

Flash flooding is common during the summer monsoon season. Even if it is dry where you are, thunderstorms miles away can cause dry washes to become active. Head to high ground if you are in a drainage during rainstorms, and if you encounter flowing water across a road or trail, consider whether it is safe to cross based on its depth and flow. Flows tend to increase during afternoon thunderstorms or in the afternoon during spring runoff, so what was passable in the morning may not be passable in the afternoon. You may need to wait for flow to recede for safe passage. When in doubt, turn around, don't drown.

Wildfire is a common occurrence in southwestern forests. The Gila has a rich history of fire use for maintaining and improving forest health. Several large wildfires since 2012 have left their marks on the landscape. You may encounter standing dead trees, fallen trees across your path, and falling trees, especially during wind events. Avoid camping in areas beneath standing dead trees. Consider carrying a saw in case trees fall across your exit. 

Post-fire flood events have resulted in erosion and trail washouts. Many trails affected by fire may not be passable. You are encouraged to contact the local office where you are planning to visit ahead of time to find out about current conditions.