NM - Gila Wilderness Section

The Gila Wilderness Section of the Continental Divide Trail passes through the first designated wilderness area in the United States, established in 1924 largely through the advocacy of conservationist Aldo Leopold. This remote stretch of the CDT offers an authentic backcountry experience through a landscape of volcanic mountains, canyon drainages, and piñon-juniper woodlands that feel genuinely untouched by the modern world.

Hikers traverse high mesa terrain above the headwaters of the Gila River, crossing numerous seasonal streams and negotiating rugged volcanic rock. The trail is lightly maintained and navigation skills are helpful, as the route winds through an area where wild elk, black bear, Coues white-tailed deer, and mountain lion are regularly encountered. Hot springs near the Gila Cliff Dwellings add a unique bonus to this remote section. The landscape bears the cultural imprint of ancient Mogollon peoples whose cliff dwellings still stand nearby. This is true wilderness travel requiring self-sufficiency and solid backcountry preparedness.