Pets

 
A white dog with black spots sits in a field of green.
There are many trails around Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument for you to enjoy with your four-legged friends, but Cliff Dweller Trail isn't one of them.

NPS Photo by Dana Dick

Due to the archeological sensitivity of the dwellings, pets are not allowed on the trail to the cliff dwellings.

Complimentary kennels are available on a first-come first-served basis at the trailhead. There are two large and three medium sized kennels. They are located near the vault toilets at the Trailhead and are often shaded and cooler than the surrounding area. Bowls and water are available but owners are encouraged to provide other items for comfort such as food, toys, beds, or blankets. Kennels are only for visitors who are hiking up to see the Gila Cliff Dwellings.

Qualified service animals assisting people with disabilities are allowed and must be controlled at all times. A service animal is defined as a dog or miniature horse that is trained to perform some of the functions and tasks that the individual with a disability cannot perform. Tasks may include carrying a pack for persons with mobility impairments, assisting persons with balance, or alerting medically dependent persons of specific conditions such as oncoming seizures. Service animals in training are not allowed on the trail.

Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.

Service animals, companion animals, and pets are allowed on all other trails in the surrounding Gila Wilderness and need to be on a leash no more than 6 feet in length and under control at all times.

 
An image of a bagde that is for a Bark Ranger it reads Bark Ranger Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
Junior Ranger Badge next to a Bark Ranger Badge

NPS Photo

Bark Ranger Program

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monumnet offers a B.A.R.K. Ranger program for you and your canine companion to earn a special collar tag/keychain, to show the world what a good dog you have! Pick up a brochure at the Gila Visitor Center or Cliff Dweller Canyon Trailhead, consult the experts, fill out the activities, then see a Ranger or Volunteer to be sworn in and earn your tag!

Last updated: March 29, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

26 Jim Bradford Trail
Mimbres, NM 88049

Phone:

575-536-9461

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