A Walk in the Water
While Silver City and Pinos Altos, New Mexico were founded on the discovery of precious metals, the most valued treasure in the area is water. Drive through the Ponderosa pine forests of the Gila Wilderness about an hour out of Silver City, and you will descend into the Gila River Valley. Nestled here in the Gila’s verdant headwaters is the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.
This small park is an anomaly for two reasons. First, although officially in the National Park system, it is actually run by the US Forest Service (and a host of volunteers). Second, almost everything in the park is free. The East, West, and Middle forks of the Gila River have fishing, hot springs for soaking, facilities for camping, and ancient Mogollon Indian ruins and pictographs for exploring – all free! Check out the Visitor Center for maps, information, and the times of the guided tours of the main Cliff Dwellings ($3 per person).
A highly recommended day hike is up the Middle Fork of the Gila to Lightfeather Hot Springs. The trail crosses the river multiple times, and winds through shady dells created over the water by willows, junipers, and cottonwoods. The water at the hot springs is a balmy 130ยบ F, which the burns on Lance’s hand can attest to. Another recommendation is a sunset “Croc-walk” around Cliff Dweller’s Canyon and the West Fork (since your boots will be wet after the river crossings). Within a few “Croc-steps” of our campsite we found a private pictograph gallery and cliff dwelling.
At 6,000 feet, Silver City and the Gila River Valley are perfect summertime retreats with a myriad of activities available: backpacking, hot springs, river rafting, hiking, bird watching, prospecting, wildlife viewing, and boating at nearby Lake Roberts.
We suggest you stop in Pinos Altos, a quaint and historical mining town just north of Silver City on your way to the Cliff Dwellings. Visit the General Store for a tasty prune milkshake – try it, you’ll like it! If you want to stop after a long day of exploring the wilderness, grab a steak and brew at the famous Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House.
The Mogollon people migrated here long ago for much the same reason we go to Southeastern New Mexico’s Gila Wilderness today. Located just over 3 hours from Tucson, this oasis is well worth a visit.
