Gila Cliff Dwellings special hikes
Centennial celebration
GILA CLIFF DWELLINGS, N.M. — As part of the National Park Service Centennial Celebration, Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is proud to announce a series of special Centennial Tours. These tours will allow visitors to get a “special” Cliff Dwellings experience, at times and places generally closed to the public.
Rim Photography Hikes
Saturday June 4, July 2, Aug. 6: A four-hour round trip Ranger-led wilderness hike to the top of the South Mesa across the canyon from the Cliff Dwellings. The hike leads to an area from which many of the classic photographs of the Dwellings have been taken. Be advised that the hike is very strenuous and primarily off trail. Hikes meet at 10 a.m. at the Woody’s Corral trailhead. Be advised, this hike does not end at the Cliff Dwellings, but on the opposite canyon rim.
Full Moon Hikes
Sunday, June 19, Tuesday, July 19 and Friday, Aug. 19: Take advantage of a rare and unique opportunity to hike Cliff Dweller Canyon Trail and view the Dwellings at night. This is a Ranger-led hike under the light of a full moon. The trail is moderate and just over 1 mile round trip. The Dwellings will be partially illuminated. Hikes will meet at the Monument Trail Head at 9 p.m. and will conclude by 11 p.m. Remember, it’s a long drive back from the Dwellings late at night, so consider the various U.S. Forest Service Campgrounds in the area.
No extra fee will be charged for the special tours. Please check our website at www.nps.gov/gicl, follow us on Facebook, or call 575-536-9461. Come help us celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the National Park Service with these unique hikes.