SEE THE GILA WILDERNESS like Aldo Leopold with a guided horseback trek from Joe Saenz, of Wolfhorse Outfitters, or Becky Campbell, of Gila Hot Springs Ranch. Hike to the undeveloped Lightfeather Hot Springs, less than a mile up the Middle Fork from a trailhead near Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center. Go on a guided overland expedition in specially equipped four-wheel-drive Jeeps with New Mexico Black Range.
Driving the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway toward the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument via NM 35, stop in Mimbres for baked goods at 3 Questions Coffee House or pizza at the Log Cabin Restaurant. Once in Gila Hot Springs, get provisions—and homemade ice cream—at Doc Campbell’s Post.
Make a day of your trip to Catwalk Recreation Area, seeing trout restoration in action at the Glenwood Fish Hatchery, then follow the mountain road to the ghost town of Mogollon. Fill up the tank at Trading Post Glenwood, which stocks groceries and gifts, including body products made locally by Udder Delight Natural Skincare and Super Salve Co.
Three days a week, Adobe Café & Bakery near Reserve serves breakfast, pizza, soups, sandwiches, and brisket. Sip a wilderness-inspired nano brew at Open Space Brewing, in Santa Clara, which partnered with the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance on Aldo’s Dream Red IPA.
In Silver City, downtown galleries like Animalia Studio and Made in Silver City exhibit—and sell—art inspired by the wilderness. Visit Gila Hike & Bike for route suggestions and maps along with gear. Head down the block to Morning Star Sports to pick up a spare water bottle, sun hat, or outdoor shoes and apparel.
Celebrate the 100th anniversary during Gila Wilderness Centennial Week, May 27 to June 3, in Silver City and Bayard. Don’t miss the speaker series or the NMSU Gila Film School screenings. Details on the celebration in Gough Park and a calendar of hikes, stargazing events, and trainings are at fs.usda.gov/detail/gila.