Welcome to the Gila National Forest
Never Allowed and Illegal: Fireworks and Pyrotechnics.
It is illegal to bring or use any kind of firework, or other pyrotechnic device on Federal Lands, which includes National Forests. Help prevent wildfires! More information
Welcome to Adventure
Visit dark sky parks, canyon catwalks, cave dwellings, majestic mountain scenery and experience the adventure you've been missing!
Sunrise from Emory Pass. Courtesy photo by James Apodaca.
The Gila National Forest has over three million acres of forested hills, majestic mountains, and range land. It is probably best known for its wilderness areas, in particular the Gila Wilderness - the first wilderness in the United States. The magnificent mountain scenery, cool summer temperatures and relatively warm winters permit a wide range of recreational opportunities during all seasons.
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Celebrating Wilderness at its Birthplace
The Gila Wilderness is turning 100 in 2024. Learn about special events for the birthday of the nation's oldest wilderness.
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Apply for Seasonal Jobs
Apply June 27 - July 10, 2024. We're hiring temporary Biological Science Technicians (natural resources), Forestry Technicians (fuels) and Visitor Information Services. Make a difference and gain valuable work experience.
Preparing for Your Visit to the Gila National Forest
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Special Places
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Find Your Way
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Passes & Permits
Get Involved with the Gila National Forest
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Smokey Bear Reading Challenge
Help celebrate Smokey Bear's 80th Birthday.
Learn More about the Gila National Forest
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Job Corps Pilot Program
Learn about the Gila National Forest's new pilot program where Job Corps students rebuilt rural workforce housing in need of repair.
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Caring for the Land
Learn more about how the Gila National Forest is managed and cared for, including travel management, grazing management and annual operating instructions (AOIs), forest planning, assessments, and projects, including the Luna Restoration Project.
Recent News
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Reserve Ranger District to burn slash piles at Rainy Mesa
Release Date: Jun 27, 2024 Reserve, NM
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Bears reported at Gomez Peak and Little Walnut
Release Date: Jun 26, 2024 Silver City, NM
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Gila National Forest offices closed June 19 for Juneteenth federal holiday
Release Date: Jun 17, 2024
Features
A Path through the Wilderness: The Story of Forest Road 150
![photo of Black Canyon Bridge on North Star Road](/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd593176_tn.jpg)
Imagine the world in 1875. The Civil War has been over for ten years. The normal mode of transportation in southern New Mexico is either horseback, or a horse-drawn wagon. Black cavalry and infantry troops, known as Buffalo Soldiers, were sent to the American West to take part in the Indian wars and the protection of settlers.
New Mexico Enchantment Pass
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Plan your adventures and save money! The new Enchantment Pass offers access to dozens of New Mexico National Forests’ recreation areas for one low annual fee of $40.