Gila Cliff Dwellings Back Road
Ancient ruins and hot springs in the Gila
Forest Road 15 winds through the heart of the Gila National Forest, following the Middle Fork of the Gila River to the famous cliff dwellings built by the Mogollon people in the 1280s. This historic route parallels the river through towering ponderosa pines and narrow canyons, passing several natural hot springs including the popular Jordan Hot Springs. The road can be challenging after monsoons, with multiple creek crossings and rocky sections that demand careful tire placement around the Gila Visitor Center area.
High-clearance vehicle required, 4WD recommended during wet weather when stream crossings rise. The final approach to the cliff dwellings involves several low-water crossings that can become impassable during spring snowmelt or summer flash floods. Open year-round but check conditions before heading out—winter snow and ice make the route treacherous. Pack camera gear for the archaeological sites and bring a swimsuit for the hot springs. This is one of New Mexico’s premier combination drives, mixing ancient history with some of the state’s most pristine wilderness.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 42 mi / 67.6 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6200 ft |
| Best season | March-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD/4WD recommended |
| Nearest town | Silver City, New Mexico |
| Land manager | Gila National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle this trail without a lift?
Yes. A stock high-clearance 4WD or capable high-clearance 2WD can run this trail in dry conditions. The gravel road is moderate and manageable, but low-clearance vehicles like sedans or minivans will have a bad time, especially near the water crossings.
When does the trail close, and is it passable after winter storms?
The trail is best run March through November. Winter snowfall and mud can make sections impassable or seriously sketchy — the Gila gets real weather. Check road conditions with Gila National Forest before heading out if you're going anywhere near the shoulder seasons.
Do I need a permit to drive the back road or visit the cliff dwellings?
No permit is needed to drive the forest road. Entering the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument itself requires a small entrance fee — currently a few dollars per person — collected at the monument. No advance reservation needed for the drive.
What's the hardest part of this trail and what should I be ready for?
The water crossings are the wildcard — the Middle Fork of the Gila River can swell fast after rain and turn a moderate drive into a genuine obstacle. Outside of high water, the biggest challenge is the rutted gravel and loose rock on some climbs. Nothing that'll break a capable rig in normal conditions, but don't rush it.
Is there any cell service on this route, and how far is the nearest gas?
There is zero cell service on this trail — plan accordingly with downloaded offline maps and let someone know your timeline. Silver City is your last stop for fuel, roughly 44 miles from the cliff dwellings, so top off your tank before you leave town.
Trail track
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