Gila National Forest - Gila Wilderness

Some of the finest mountain scenery in the southwest is found in the 3.3 million acres covered by the Gila National Forest. Elevations rise from 4,000 to 11,000 feet at Whitewater Baldy. In 1924 the 790,000 acre Gila Wilderness became the first wilderness area designated by Congress. Wilderness is land set aside so the natural environment is not disturbed. Travel in the wilderness is restricted to foot or horse-back. Other wilderness areas on the Gila include the Aldo Leopold and Blue Range.

Recreational Opportunities

The magnificent mountain scenery and cool summer temperatures lure vacationers to enjoy the peace and quiet. There are 1,510 miles of trails, opportunities abound for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, trail-biking, and 4-wheel drive exploring. Many summer hiking trails become cross-country ski and snowmobile trails in winter. Eighteen campgrounds are available; 5 with drinking water and toilets, and 13 without drinking water. Big game animals roam the Gila. They include mule deer, elk, antelope, black bear, mountain lion, and bighorn sheep along with many species of smaller animals and song-birds. The Gila has 360 miles of mountain streams, rivers, and lakes.