Wilderness · New Mexico
Gila Wilderness
The world’s first designated wilderness
TypeWilderness
StateNew Mexico
Best seasonSpring & fall
Don’t missGila Cliff Dwellings
Set aside in 1924 as the first wilderness on earth, the Gila is a rugged maze of canyons, hot springs, and cliff dwellings in southwest New Mexico. Wolves were reintroduced here; it still feels primeval.
What to see
- Gila Cliff Dwellings
- Jordan Hot Springs
- Gila River hike
- Mogollon ghost town
- Catwalk Recreation Area
On public wild lands, services are sparse and conditions change fast — check the managing agency (Forest Service / BLM / Park Service) for road and seasonal closures, fire restrictions, and any permits before you go, and pack out what you pack in.
Build a trip around wild places like this.
Roamward turns spots like this into a real road trip on your phone — the scenic drive, the stops, and the detours, planned around the vibe you’re after. Get early access: