Things To Do Near Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
The star attractions at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument are the cliff dwellings themselves; you can hike around the base or climb into the rooms for a closer look. When you're done, continue exploring the Mogollon people's historic stomping grounds on a hike into the surrounding Gila Wilderness. There are a few amenities in the Gila Hot Springs area, but you'll need to drive back to Silver City for a broader selection of shopping and dining options.
Hiking Trails
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Gila Cliff Dwellings Trail
The Gila Cliff Dwellings Trail is the only official trail inside Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. It travels one mile from the visitor center to the cliff dwellings, taking you in a loop around the canyon. If you're able, you can climb up into the homes on wooden ladders. If not, the hike offers beautiful views from many different angles.
Location
Visitor center
Length
1 mile one way
Intensity
Easy
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West Fork Trail
One of the most popular hikes in the Gila Wilderness, the West Fork Trail is a great spot for a day trip. Park in the Cliff Dwellings lot and look for the signs to the trail. The path follows the West Fork of the Gila River through E.E. Canyon, taking you past spectacular rock formations and deep into the wilderness. Wear sturdy, quick-drying shoes to navigate the many river crossings, and bring a large supply of water to combat the heat. Turn around at any time to create a beautiful out-and-back day hike.
Location
Cliff Dwellings parking area
Length
33 miles one way
Intensity
Moderate to Strenuous
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Middle Fork/Continental Divide Trail
Explore another section of the Gila River on the Middle Fork/Continental Divide Trail. It starts from the visitor center and travels along the Middle Fork, taking you into the hills above the water. It passes through awe-inspiring canyons and under towering rock hoodoos, getting you up close and personal with New Mexico's legendary geology. Pay close attention to the trail and the cairns as it's easy to lose the path. If you leave early, you can hike about seven miles to Jordan Hot Springs and enjoy a soak in the natural pools before making the return trip.
Location
TJ Corral trailhead
Length
Varies
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Gila Hot Springs
If you're interested in soaking in a hot pool without the long hike, check out Gila Hot Springs. Part campground, part hot spring resort, it offers a selection of natural pools next to the Gila River. Soak in the geothermally heated water as you take in the views of the forest and rock walls. Make sure to book a time in advance, particularly if you're coming on the weekend.
Location
HC 68 Box 80, Silver City, New Mexico 88061
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Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway
See the wilderness around the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument on the Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway. This spectacular route starts at the monument, travels down NM-15 to Silver City, and follows US-180 and NM-152 west to San Lorenzo. From there, it travels north on NM-35 until it meets NM-15. Drive the entire 93-mile route to see the spectacular mountains, canyons, and forests of the Gila Wilderness. Known for its exceptional birding, biking, and historic sites, the scenic byway offers plenty to do along the way.
Location
Visitor center
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Arrastra Interpretive Site
Located just north of Pinos Altos on NM-15, the Arrastra Interpretive Site is an interesting spot to learn about historic mining. It features a reconstructed arrastra, a mill that ground the rocks that were pulled from gold mines. In the 1800s, miners used horses to power the crushing mechanism. Walk the short path from the parking lot and learn about the process via a series of interpretive signs.
Location
NM-15, Silver City, NM 88061
Museums
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Gila Cliff Dwellings Trailhead Museum
Located inside the visitor center at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, the Gila Cliff Dwellings Trailhead Museum is a great place to stop on your way into the park. It's small but informative, giving you an interesting overview of the site's architecture, the Mogollon culture, and the history of the cliff dwellings. Check out Mogollon artifacts that were found in the cliff dwellings, and learn about the local Chiricahua Apache people.
Location
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument Visitor Center
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Billy the Kid Homesite
See the small log cabin where Henry McCarty was born at the Billy the Kid Homesite. As you might guess, McCarty would grow up to become the legendary outlaw known as Billy the Kid. After he was orphaned as a teenager, McCarty began his life of crime; eventually, he was shot and killed at just 21 years old. Although his original home no longer stands, you can visit his birthplace and explore a log cabin that's furnished as it would have been in the late 1800s.
Location
201 N Hudson St, Silver City, NM 88061
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Doc Campbell's Post
You'll find a bit of everything at Doc Campbell's Post — outdoor gear, souvenirs, Native American art, and rocks are just the start of the fun. Located just five miles from Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, this is the closest shop to the park.
Location
3796 NM-15, Silver City, NM 88061
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Kris's Unique Boutique
Kris's Unique Boutique lives up to its name; it's packed with unusual treasures. Pick up a small sculpture for your home or a piece of jewelry for a friend.
Location
217 N Bullard St, Silver City, NM 88061
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Buckhorn Saloon & Opera House
Dine inside a beautiful historic building at the Buckhorn Saloon & Opera House. With meals ranging from burgers to filet mignon, there's an option for every appetite.
Location
32 Main St, Pinos Altos, NM 88053
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Diane's Restaurant
Come for breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Diane's Restaurant. This friendly spot offers American dishes with an international influence. Try the New Mexico burger, which is topped with green chiles, or the house-specialty spanakopita.
Location
510 N Bullard St, Silver City, NM 88061