Guided Tours

Our Ranger led tours are currently offered in the spring, summer and fall months. We offer tours of the Cliff Dwellings, a program on the Gila and it's People as well as a Guided Bird walk, check our calendar for the times and availability of the programs.

Below we have a description of each regularly offered program at the Gila Cliff dwellings check the calendar on our website to find out when programs are available

Gila Cliff Dwellings Tour

*The Tour starts at cave 1 of the dwellings not at the trailhead*

Join us on a 45-minute guided tour of the Gila Cliff Dwellings, where you will journey back in time to explore the fascinating history and culture of the Mogollon people. Nestled within the rugged cliffs of the Gila Wilderness, these ancient dwellings offer a unique glimpse into the lives of those who inhabited this region over 700 years ago.

As we walk, your ranger will share information about the architecture and some of the survival techniques that the Mogollon would have used. Learn about the intricate relationship between these early inhabitants and the surrounding environment, including their use of local resources for building, food, and medicine.

The tour will take you through several of the cliff dwellings, where you can observe the hand-crafted rooms and structures that once served as homes, storage areas, and ceremonial spaces. Your guide will also discuss the archaeological significance of the site, the preservation efforts that protect it today, and the challenges faced by the Mogollon people in this remote and rugged landscape.

Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with the history that shaped this extraordinary site. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a nature lover, this tour offers a rare chance to connect with the past while surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Gila Wilderness.

Please note that the tour involves a moderate hike with some elevation gain, and we recommend wearing sturdy footwear and bringing water. No pets are allowed on the trail, but free kennels are available at the Trailhead.

Gila Bird and Nature Walk: Discover the Wild Side of Gila

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Gila Wilderness on our hour-long Bird and Nature Walk. This guided tour offers an in-depth exploration of the diverse flora and fauna that make this area a unique ecological treasure.

Led by a ranger, the walk takes you along Cliff Dweller trail or a nearby trail, season dependent, where you will have the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitats. From the vibrant Western Tanager to the elusive Montezuma Quail, the Gila Wilderness is home to an array of birdlife that will delight both novice birdwatchers and seasoned ornithologists.

As we stroll through different ecosystems, your guide will point out native plants, including some of the grasses, cacti, and succulents that thrive in this environment. Learn about the intricate relationships between plants, animals, and the land, and discover how the Mogollon people once relied on these resources for survival.

The walk also offers insights into the broader ecological significance of the Gila River and its tributaries, which support a rich variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for signs of other creatures, from deer, lizards and butterflies, as we explore the interconnectedness of life in this rugged wilderness.

This leisurely walk is perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages and offers a peaceful way to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Gila. Bring your binoculars, a field guide, and a sense of curiosity as we embark on this journey into the wild heart of New Mexico.

Please wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Binoculars and field guides are recommended but not required.

The Gila and Its People

Gather around as we delve into the rich history of the Gila region in a 30-minute talk that explores the lives of the diverse peoples who have called this area home for thousands of years. "The Gila and Its People" offers an engaging and insightful look into the cultural and historical significance of this unique landscape.

In this talk, we will journey through time, starting with the ancient Mogollon people, the builders of the Gila Cliff Dwellings. Learn about their sophisticated architectural techniques, their relationship with the natural world, and the spiritual significance of the dwellings they left behind. We'll discuss how these early inhabitants not only survived but thrived in the challenging environment of the Gila Wilderness.

As we move forward in time, we’ll explore the stories of the Apache and other indigenous groups who roamed these lands, relying on the Gila's abundant resources for their way of life. You'll hear about their deep spiritual connection to the land, their resilience in the face of adversity, and the profound impact of European colonization.

The talk also touches on the arrival of European settlers, the development of the region, and the establishment of the Gila Wilderness as a protected area. We’ll discuss the continuing significance of the Gila in modern times, highlighting the ongoing efforts to preserve its cultural and natural heritage.

This talk is perfect for visitors interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the human history of the Gila region. Whether you're passionate about history or simply curious about the stories of the people who shaped this landscape, "The Gila and Its People" offers a compelling narrative that connects the past with the present.

Woodpeckers of the Gila: Nature's Drummers

Join us for a 30-minute program that celebrates the fascinating world of woodpeckers, one of the most intriguing bird families found in the Gila Wilderness. In this session, we will focus on three of the eight woodpecker species that make their home in this diverse and vibrant ecosystem.

Our program will begin by introducing you to the unique adaptations that make woodpeckers so well-suited to their environment. From their strong, chisel-like beaks to their specialized feet and shock-absorbing skulls, woodpeckers are marvels of nature’s engineering.

Throughout the program, we’ll explore the behavior, habitat preferences, and ecological significance of these incredible birds. You’ll discover how woodpeckers play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the forest, from controlling insect populations to creating nesting sites for other species. We’ll also discuss their distinctive drumming patterns and how these sounds contribute to the vibrant soundscape of the Gila Wilderness.

Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or just curious about the natural world, this program offers an engaging look at some of the Gila’s most fascinating avian residents. Bring your curiosity and love for wildlife as we explore the lives of these remarkable birds!

In addition to our ranger-led tours offered in the spring, summer and fall, you can now have a self-guided tour right on your phone using the official NPS App available on the Google Play and App store. Make sure you download the app and save our park for offline use, because you'll have no cell service or wifi at the park.

Self-guided tour

In addition to our ranger-led tours offered in the spring, summer and fall, you can now have a self-guided tour right on your phone using the official NPS App available on the Google Play and App store. Make sure you download the app and save our park for offline use, because you'll have no cell service or wifi at the park.

Visit the official Facebook page, check our calendar, or call the Gila Visitor Center at 575-536-9461 for the latest information.