September Gila Trails Update

Welcome to our first newsletter.

We will be sending monthly info about trails in the Gila:

- Current Conditions

- Recommended Adventures

- Upcoming Trail Projects

Current Conditions

Currently, in the Gila, we are experiencing low rainfall, which means that some water sources are not as reliable. But some water sources are still viable thanks to last year's recharging rains. Thankfully, the Gila has an abundance of options. Be sure to plan your adventure with reliable water sources in mind.

Check out our Water Updates.

The following trails have been recently worked on and are ready for your adventures. (Note: in the future, not all highlighted adventures will be recently completed Gila BCH trail projects)

Adventure at your own risk.

Trail conditions change.

Recreate Responsibly

Day Adventures

Crest Trail #79 North from Emory Pass

This trail was recently brushed up to 2.25 miles. A great out-and-back with endless views. An old CCC wall is about 2.5 miles from the trailhead. Hillsboro Peak and Lookout is about 5 miles one way. This trail is well-graded but it is a continuous climb.

Map - Geospatial PDF

Tadpole Ridge Trail #232

This trail is close to Silver City and offers great views of the Gila Wilderness. The first two miles of the trail were recently brushed. Wonderful out and back.

Map - Geospatial PDF

CDT South of Sapillo Campground

Rock bluffs, expansive views and huge agave. Great out-and-back - 2.5 miles are clear of brush and logs.

A short section from the kiosk/parking area is on dirt roads. Follow CDT sign to get to the single track.

Map - Geospatial PDF

Backcountry Adventures

Rain Creek Trail #189 to West Fork Mogollon Trail # 224

This is a rugged and yet impressive area. Rain Creek Trail was recently improved, and the first 2 miles of West Fork Mogollon Trail is now passable, but you won't want to go any further past that.

There is a nice camp option near the junction of West Fork Mogollon Trail and Rain Creek Trail. From there, one could day hike to Mogollon Creek (via Rain Creek Trail) or day hike up West Fork Mogollon.

Note that parts of this trail are not recommended for stock. And part of this trail is very steep for extended periods of time.

Map - Geospatial PDF

Middle Fork Trail,

Iron Creek Mesa Trail

and other nearby trails

There are many trail options on the north side of the Gila Wilderness. The Middle Fork Trail was improved from the Gilita Creek Trailhead all the way down to the Flying V trail.

Aeroplane Trail #705 and Loco Mountain Trail # 143 were also improved.

One option is to backpack/horse pack into the Middle Fork via one of these trails and then explore from base camp. Iron Creek Mesa Trail is a nice out-and-back (3.25 miles of this trail was reopened in August).

Map - Geospatial PDF