Welcome to the Gila National Forest

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.

• 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.

  Learn More

• Smokey Bear Reading Challenge

  

  Help celebrate Smokey Bear's 80^th Birthday.

  Join the Reading Challenge

Preparing for Your Visit to the Gila National Forest

• Special Places

  

  Destinations

• Find Your Way

  

  Maps and Brochures

• Passes & Permits

  

  Passes and Permits

Get Involved with the Gila National Forest

• Job Corps Pilot Program

  

  Watch a video about the Gila National Forest's new pilot program where Job Corps students rebuilt rural workforce housing in need of repair.

  Watch Video

• 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.

  Caring for the Land Grazing Management