NEW MEXICO
Planning your trip to the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico
THE BEST WAY TO GILA
From LAX, nonstop service to Albuquerque is offered on Southwest and United, and connecting service (change of planes) is available on
US Airways, Delta, Frontier and American.
From Albuquerque, drive about 77 miles south on Interstate 25. At Socorro, head west on U.S. 60 about 60 miles until you reach the town of Datil. Take
EXPLORING ON HORSEBACK
Gila Wilderness Ventures, (575) 539-2800, www.gilawildernessventures.com.
Gila Wilderness Expeditions, (866) 242-3500, www.gilawildernessexpeditions.com.
Gila Hot Springs Ranch, (575) 536-9551 or (575) 536-9314, www.gilahotspringsranch.com.
COST
Rates vary by outfitter but generally are about $190 per person per day, including food and use of a horse. Some packages include use of a cabin outside the wilderness; others provide guests with access to a campground where you pitch a tent.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Elevation in the Gila Wilderness ranges from about 5,000 to 10,000 feet. Temperatures in September range from the high 80s during the day to the mid-40s at night. Carry plenty of water and avoid traveling alone. Expect wildlife. Don't expect cellphone service.
TO LEARN MORE
Visit www.fs.fed.us/r3/gila; for more on the cliff dwellings, go to www.nps.gov/gicl/.
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