August Gila Trails Update

In this Newsletter:

- Current Conditions

- Day Adventures

- Backcountry Adventures

- Trails Projects

photo credit: Cindy Chojnacky

Current Weather and Rain

Rain and heat have been the themes for this summer.

This season, the Gila had some rain, enough to make the grass green & grow tall.

Storms have been mostly isolated.

This has created area-specific flooding, but overall, the Forks of the Gila are lower than average.

Despite the rain, temps have been high.

Plan accordingly in terms of heat and water sources.

Dealing with the Heat

August is Flower Month in the Gila

Thankfully the monsoon rains have brought flowers. Although the spotty rains mean fewer flowers than normal, they are still worth enjoying.

August is the best time of year to enjoy the flowers of the Gila.

In September, as daylight decreases, flowers turn to seeds and stickers.

Less pretty and annoying when they stick to your socks and pants.

Now is the time to go out to enjoy the green and the flowers.

Unmaintained Trails

Photo Credit: Wilderness Need

Why are there so many unmaintained trails in the US today?

One reason is the shortage of trail builders.

Learn More

"Federal agencies increasingly rely on volunteers and partner organizations to keep up with the volume of work and tackle years of deferred maintenance. "

Thanks to everyone who helps keep the Gila trails open!

Adventure at your own risk.

Trail conditions change.

Recreate Responsibly

CDT from FS Rd 89 to Sapillo Campground

The CDT from FS Rd 89 to the Sapillo Campground was recently maintained by the Forest Service Trail Crew.  

This trail can be used by mtn bikes, equine, and hikers.

This trail offers views and travels through both ponderosa and pinion juniper forests.

Be aware of lightning potential when traveling on this trail during August. Sections of this trail are exposed and may be hot.

See maps for details

Backcountry Adventures

The Little Creek Trail #161 starts 4 miles from Woody's Corral Trailhead.

Little Creek is a long, shallow valley with open grassy parks and stands of ponderosa pine.

The valley is wide enough to offer privacy for camping away from the trail.

9 miles up Little Creek, at Little Springs, is a junction of trails and a decent basecamp option with water.

For the basecamp, day adventure options include:

Granite Peak

Diablos Mountains

White Pinnacle

Mckenna Park

Note:

Little Creek does not flow continuously and has long stretches of dry creek bed. Carry extra water for the travel to Little Springs

September Trail Projects

Check out our trail project schedule for October which includes

Railroad and Gallinas Trails

Little Whitewater #214

West Fork Mogollon #224

Questions or to RSVP: groundworktrails@gmail.com

Enjoy Gila Trails!

View from Sycamore Trail #234 (CDT Alternate)