Hiking To This Aboveground Cave In New Mexico Will Give You A Surreal Experience

The trail to the Gila Cliff Dwellings is short yet rugged. However, what lies at the end of this uphill scramble is more than worth the effort.

Nomadic people have sought refuge in the caves of Southwestern New Mexico for thousands of years. But, in the 13th century, the Mogollon people settled in these cliff dwellings, camouflaged by the surrounding Gila Wilderness.

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They occupied the caves for two decades and during those years they constructed rooms inside them. You can walk through the remains of their homes today.

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The one-mile hike leading to the cliff dwellings crosses over a stream that trickles through the valley.

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You reach the caves from below, so the trail is on an incline. At times the slope has a fairly sharp gradient. But there are places to rest along the way.

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The rough terrain also means it is not wheelchair accessible.

Due to the archeological significance of this site, pets are not allowed. (There are free kennels at the Contact Station, where your pet can hang out during your visit.)

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For the return journey, you can either retrace your steps or you can descend some of the way via ladder, like the Mogollon people once did.

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Remember to pack it in and pack it out – leave no trace of your presence. It’s also a good idea to bring water on the hike.

If you’re planning a visit, review this information first.

The Gila Wilderness is an outdoor playground just begging to be discovered. If you want to extend your stay, there are campgrounds in the area.

On a map, this national monument looks fairly close to Silver City. However, the tortuous drive is deceptively long. Go early in the day and allow yourself plenty of time. This is a gorgeous place and you’ll want to savor the experience.

Have you taken this hike? What did you think?