Unleash your spirit of adventure in the Land of Enchantment! Begin your unforgettable journey in Silver City, New Mexico, the gateway to the breathtaking Gila National Forest. Explore over 3.3 million acres of pristine wilderness, whether you’re hiking, biking, horseback riding, or navigating off-highway vehicles. Marvel at the stunning canyons, majestic mountains, and serene rivers and lakes. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural history, abundant wildlife, and boundless outdoor beauty that make the Gila a true paradise for nature enthusiasts.

relax, explore, and discover
Silver City and the Gila!

3.3
MILLION
ACRES

HIKE

RIDE – OHV

HORSEBACK

BIKE

WAYS TO ENJOY

Enjoy the Gila National Forest through a variety of activities. Hike or ride scenic trails, camp under starry skies, fish from beautiful streams and lakes, or enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Take a relaxing soak in natural hot springs or explore ancient cliff dwellings for a taste of history.

CAMPING

  • More than 40 campgrounds
  • 14 day stay limit in the Gila
  • Campground camping, dispersed camping, group camping and RV camping

FISHING

  • Home to the Gila River Trout
  • 500 miles of streams
  • Lake & Pond fishing
  • River & Stream fishing
  • Permits & Licenses required

HUNTING

  • Mountain Lion, Black Bear, Deer, Elk, Ringtails, Bobcats, Antelope, Big Horn sheep, Turkey, Javelina…
  • Permits & Licenses required

PHOTOGRAPHY

  • 3.3 Million Acres of landscape
  • 4 of 6 life zones
  • Over 450 species of vertebrates
  • Over 300 bird species

BIRDING

  • Over 300 bird species
  • Diverse ecological habitat
  • Migratory flight path

RAFTING

  • Unique backcountry rafting
  • Home to the Grapevine to Box Canyon (Wilderness Run)

STARGAZING

  • Some of the darkest skies
  • Bortle Class 1 or 2 skies
  • Home to the Cosmic Campground

HOT SPRINGS

  • Favorites include: Jordan Hot Springs, San Francisco Hot Springs, Turkey Creek Hot Springs, Gila Hot Springs, Lightfeather Hot Springs

WHAT TO DISCOVER

Discover the charm of Silver City, NM, and the breathtaking beauty of the Gila National Forest. Explore diverse wildlife, rich geography, fascinating history, and vibrant culture of this enchanting region.

WILDLIFE | BIRDS

  • Over 450 species of vertebrates
  • Mountain Lions, Black Bears, Mexican Grey Wolves, Mule and Whitetail Deer, Elk, Porcupines, Ringtails, Bobcats, Antelope, Big Horn and Desert Mountain sheep, Turkey, Javelina, and many more.
  • 300 bird species

TREES | PLANTS

  • One of the worlds largest Ponderosa Pine forests
  • Juniper, Oak, Aspen, Pine, Douglas Fir, Spruce, Cottonwood, Sycamore, and more
  • Aspen glades
  • Diverse Flora and Fauna

GEOGRAPHY

  • 4,200 ft to 10,900 ft
  • 4 of 6 life zones
  • All 4 seasons

HISTORY | CULTURE

  • Ancient civilizations
  • Heritage Sites
  • Prehistoric Dwellings
  • Historic Interpretive Sites