Gila Wilderness – Image Gallery
![[Photo] 1922—Horseback riding for recreation in the Gila Wilderness.
1922—Horseback riding for recreation in the Gila Wilderness. Inspired by writings of Aldo Leopold, the Forest Service made the Gila Wilderness first of the many national forest wilderness areas.
Photo by W. H. Shaffer
FS #383532](https://alanharmonnet-places-images.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/usa_wilderness_areas/gila_wilderness_homepage_2_thumb.jpg)
Gila Wilderness
The Gila Wilderness is a remote and rugged expanse of protected land in southwestern New Mexico, known for its diverse ecosystems and stunning natural beauty.
Details
Gila Wilderness
The Gila Wilderness is located in southwestern New Mexico and is part of the Gila National Forest. It was established in 1924 as the first designated wilderness area in the United States. The wilderness covers over 550,000 acres and is known for its rugged terrain, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems.
Features:
- Mountains: The Gila Wilderness is home to several mountain ranges, including the Mogollon Mountains and the Black Range. These mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the wilderness and offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
- Rivers: The Gila River, a tributary of the Colorado River, runs through the wilderness and provides essential water sources for plants and animals. The river also offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and rafting.
- Hot Springs: The Gila Wilderness is known for its natural hot springs, which are popular destinations for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can soak in the warm waters while enjoying the surrounding wilderness.
- Wildlife: The Gila Wilderness is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, elk, and bald eagles. The wilderness provides important habitat for these species and is a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
Ecological Significance:
The Gila Wilderness is an ecologically diverse area that provides important habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. The wilderness is home to old-growth forests, riparian areas, and high desert ecosystems, each supporting unique flora and fauna.
The wilderness also plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and preserving native species. By protecting the natural habitats within the Gila Wilderness, conservationists are helping to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the region's ecosystems.
In addition, the Gila Wilderness is important for recreation and tourism, attracting visitors from around the world who come to hike, camp, and explore the beauty of the area. By promoting sustainable tourism practices, the wilderness can continue to thrive while providing valuable opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Gila Wilderness
Points of Interest
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is one of the most popular points of interest in the Gila Wilderness. Visitors can explore ancient cliff dwellings that were built by the Mogollon people over 700 years ago. The site offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the indigenous people who once lived in the area.
Gila Hot Springs
Gila Hot Springs is another popular attraction in the Gila Wilderness. Visitors can relax in natural hot springs that are believed to have healing properties. The area is surrounded by beautiful scenery, making it a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Gila National Forest
The Gila National Forest is a vast wilderness area that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. Visitors can explore the diverse landscape, which includes mountains, forests, and rivers. The forest is home to a wide range of wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Gila River
The Gila River is a major waterway that runs through the Gila Wilderness. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, rafting, and fishing along the river. The Gila River is also an important habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, making it a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Gila Wilderness – Images
Description: A beaver dam spans a section of the Middle Fork of the Gila River in the Gila National Forest
Image by Matthew.kowal – CC BY-SA 4.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Elk in Gila Wilderness — Gila National Forest.
Image by Gila National Forest – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
![[Photo] 1922—Horseback riding for recreation in the Gila Wilderness.
1922—Horseback riding for recreation in the Gila Wilderness. Inspired by writings of Aldo Leopold, the Forest Service made the Gila Wilderness first of the many national forest wilderness areas.
Photo by W. H. Shaffer
FS #383532](https://alanharmonnet-places-images.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/usa_wilderness_areas/gila_wilderness_homepage_2_medium.jpg)
Description: [Photo] 1922—Horseback riding for recreation in the Gila Wilderness. 1922—Horseback riding for recreation in the Gila Wilderness. Inspired by writings of Aldo Leopold, the Forest Service made the Gila Wilderness first of the many national forest wilderness areas. Photo by W. H. Shaffer FS #383532
Image by US Forest Service – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: Gila Wilderness Rock Formations
Image by Gila National Forest – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: A sign at the border of the Gila Wilderness in Gila National Forest, New Mexico in 1960
Image by U.S. Forest Service – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: Sunset over the Gila Wilderness
Image by Gila National Forest – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Scope and content: The original finding aid described this photograph as: Original Caption: Many miles from roads and civilization, an outfitter passes majestic Ponderosa pines in the Gila Wilderness as the early morning fog lingers. Only the sounds of birdsong and the steady clip-clop of hooves fill the air. Location: New Mexico (33.021° N 108.235° W) Status: Public domain. Photo by Bill Allen
Image by Unknown authorUnknown author or not provided – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: Western Tanager in Gila Wilderness
Image by Gila National Forest – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
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