Gila New Mexico

Gila, New Mexico, is a hidden gem with stunning landscapes, rich history, and plenty of outdoor activities. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that includes horse riding, camping, and enjoying the beautiful rivers and mountains.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Gila Wilderness

Morning:

• Arrival in Gila: Settle into your forest campsite. A great option is the Gila National Forest, where you can find several campgrounds like Gila Hot Springs Campground. It’s nestled among the trees and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
• Setup Camp: Get your tent set up and unpack your gear. Don’t forget to take a moment to soak in the fresh mountain air!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at your campsite or head to the nearby Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. The drive is scenic, and you can enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the views.
• Explore Gila Cliff Dwellings: After lunch, take a short hike to the cliff dwellings. The trail is about a mile long and offers fascinating insights into the lives of the Mogollon people who lived there over 700 years ago.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head back to your campsite and prepare a campfire dinner. S’mores are a must!
• Stargazing: After dinner, enjoy the clear night sky. The Gila Wilderness is known for its dark skies, making it perfect for stargazing. Bring a blanket and enjoy the constellations.

Day 2: Horse Riding Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your campsite. Fuel up for an exciting day ahead!
• Horse Riding: Book a guided horse riding tour with a local outfitter. Gila Wilderness Adventures offers fantastic horseback riding experiences through the stunning landscapes. You’ll ride through the mountains and along the rivers, soaking in the breathtaking views.

Afternoon:

• Lunch on the Trail: Many guided tours include a packed lunch, so you can enjoy a meal while surrounded by nature.
• Continue Riding: After lunch, continue your ride, exploring more of the Gila Wilderness. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife!

Evening:

• Return to Camp: Head back to your campsite in the late afternoon.
• Dinner: Cook up a delicious dinner over the campfire. Maybe some grilled veggies and burgers?
• Campfire Stories: Share stories or play games around the campfire. It’s a great way to bond and enjoy the wilderness atmosphere.

Day 3: River Fun and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your campsite. Take your time to soak in the peaceful surroundings.
• River Activities: Head to the Gila River for some fun! You can go fishing, swimming, or even try your hand at kayaking if you’re feeling adventurous. The river is beautiful and perfect for a refreshing dip.

Afternoon:

• Lunch by the River: Pack a lunch to enjoy by the riverbank. There are plenty of scenic spots to relax and take in the views.
• Hiking: After lunch, take a hike on one of the nearby trails, like the Middle Fork Trail. It’s a lovely hike that offers stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains.

Evening:

• Return to Camp: Head back to your campsite to pack up your gear.
• Final Dinner: Enjoy a final campfire dinner, reminiscing about your adventures over the past few days.
• Nighttime Relaxation: Spend your last night relaxing by the fire, listening to the sounds of nature, and reflecting on your trip.

Departure Day

• Pack Up: In the morning, pack up your campsite and make sure to leave no trace.
• Goodbye Gila: Take one last look at the beautiful scenery before heading home. You’ll leave with wonderful memories and a heart full of adventure!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Gila, New Mexico! Enjoy the stunning landscapes, the thrill of horse riding, and the tranquility of camping in the forest. Safe travels! 🌲🐴🏞️