Gila National Forest Wilderness, Hard 4x4 trail in Silver City, NM
    Hard
    Overlanding
    4.7

    Gila National Forest Wilderness

    Silver City, NMSouthwest

    Gila National Forest Wilderness is a hard 100+ miles off-road trail near Silver City, NM. It requires a properly built 4x4 with All-terrain tires, 4WD required, Skid plates and is best run April - November. Stock trucks and Jeeps are not recommended; plan on the required modifications before attempting it.

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    America's first designated wilderness area remains one of its most remote and wild. Forest roads access hot springs, 700-year-old cliff dwellings, and canyons where the Gila River must be forded dozens of times. This is serious backcountry that rewards preparation with unforgettable experiences.

    Fun Facts

    #1

    The Gila Wilderness was the first designated wilderness area in the world (1924).

    #2

    Gila Cliff Dwellings were built by the Mogollon people around 1280 AD.

    #3

    The forest contains the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the world.

    Length
    100+ miles
    Elevation
    4,500 - 10,000 ft
    Best Season
    April - November
    Permit
    Not Required
    First wilderness areaHot springsCliff dwellingsRiver fordingRemote canyons

    🛞 Tires

    required
    All-terrain tires

    ⚙️ Drivetrain

    required
    4WD required

    🛡️ Protection

    required
    Skid plates

    Closest campgrounds to Gila National Forest Wilderness:

    Where to Camp

    GPS Coordinates

    33.2212, -108.5534

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    Map of Silver City, NM

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