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Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is a National Park Service managed area that is surrounded by the Gila National Forest. The surrounding area includes a number of campsites, an interpretive trail and an educational/visitors center. Please visit their website for information regarding the Cliff Dwellings, possible closures, and other area information.
At a Glance
| Operational Hours: | The Gila Cliff Dwellings, Gila Visitor Center and Gila Cliff Dwellings Trailhead Museum are open every day of the year except Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year's Day (January 1). Winter hours at the Cliff Dwellings are as follows: the visitor center is open from 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (MST) and the trail is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (MST). Last visitors on the trail will be starting at 3:00 p.m., so that they can be off the trail by 4:00 p.m. Winter hours will stay in effect until February 29, 2020. The trail is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (MST). The visitor center is open from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (MST) |
|---|---|
| Open Season: | Year-round, 7 days per week |
| Usage: | Medium-Heavy |
| Closest Towns: | Silver City, NM, 2 hour drive |
| Water: | Water is available at the Visitor Center |
| Restroom: | Flush toilets at Visitor Center |
| Operated By: | National Park Service |
| Information Center: | Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument & Visitor Center (575) 536-9461 |
General Information
Directions:Take NM Highway 15 north from Silver City. Although the distance from Silver City is only 43 miles, the travel time is approximately two hours due to twisting and winding mountain terrain, and a narrow road. An alternative route from Silver City is along NM Hwy 35 and goes through the Mimbres Valley. Even though it is 25 miles longer than NM Hwy 15, it is less winding, wider, more level, and easier to travel; therefore it takes about the same amount of time as NM Hwy 15. If your vehicle, travel trailer, or RV is over 20 feet in length, you should take NM Hwy 35.
General Notes:
Long vehicles: If your vehicle, travel trailer, or RV is over 20 feet in length, you should take NM Hwy 35.
Be advised: Cell phones do not work anywhere in the region.
Parking:
There is parking at both the visitor center and the Monument.
Activities
Day Hiking
Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking:Many hiking opportunities are available near the Gila Cliff Dwellings.
Horse Riding
Recreation areas with activity Horse Riding:TJ Corral & Woody's Corral are located nearby with plenty of space for horse trailers
Viewing Scenery
Recreation areas with activity Viewing Scenery:Cottonwood trees line the river that winds through the cliffs of volcanic tuff.