Located in southwest New Mexico, Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument was created to protect Mogollon cliff dwellings in the Gila Wilderness. It is thought that the Mogollon people lived in the region from 1275 into the early 14th century. The monument includes 533 acres and was established in 1907 by President Theodore Roosevelt through executive proclamation. In the far southern part of Catron County, the monument can be reached by heading north from Silver City, New Mexico for about 37 miles.
The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is home to two prominent ruins as well as a number of smaller sites within the Gila Wilderness. The landscape of the monument has an elevation between 5,700 and 7,300 feet above sea level and follows the Gila River’s branches. Around the ruins, the terrain is rugged and includes canyons with steep sides that have been cut by spring rivers. Visitors will also see mesa and bluff that have Ponderosa pine, Gambel’s oak, Douglas fir, New Mexico juniper, pinon pine, and alligator juniper. Hot springs that are the result of the area’s volcanic history, can be found within the monument.
With a rich history as well as natural beauty, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is a must-visit location for your next RV adventure.