Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
Explore ancient Mogollon cliff dwellings, marvel at stunning mountain scenery, and step back in time on a memorable journey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Mogollon cliff dwellings, marvel at stunning mountain scenery, and step back in time on a memorable journey.
"What an absolutely amazing place. Be prepared to drive about 2 hours through very narrow, twisty, windy, mountain roads with drop offs."
🚗 Use Lower Gears on Drive
Protect your brakes on the steep, winding roads by shifting to a lower gear. 🚗
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the hike; only plain water is permitted inside the dwellings. :droplet:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.9 · 1,214 reviews
Type
National Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Cliff Dwellings
Within the monument
Explore remarkably preserved dwellings carved into massive caves, offering a glimpse into the Mogollon culture of the 1200s.
Scenic Mountain Drive
Road to the monument
A breathtaking 2-hour journey through winding mountain roads, offering stunning views and wildlife sightings.
Trail to the Past
Near the trailhead
An optional short hike to a smaller dwelling with ancient pictographs, adding another layer to your historical exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Scenic, Winding Drive
Timing is Key for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tips or good things to know?
Looking to knockout these 4 in a week and a half or 2, spring time definitely any information is great we plan to backpack in big bend and hike guadeloupe mountain. Fly into El pass? Midland? Thanks!
🚗 Use Lower Gears on Drive
Protect your brakes on the steep, winding roads by shifting to a lower gear. 🚗
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the hike; only plain water is permitted inside the dwellings. :droplet:
I've lived in (ABQ) New Mexico for over 20 years. Looking for somewhere new to go...
I've been to Chaco, Old Town ABQ, Taos, Santa Fe, Carlsbad Caverns, Bandelier, White Sands, Acoma, Cerrillos, El Malpais, El Morro, Lincoln, etc. Hell, I even lived in a tent for several weeks in the Jemez. All the big places and even the not so well known places. Any…
Advice on Arizona - New Mexico loop
Hey all!!! Looking for advice on must sees or adjusting stops for this 15 day long trip from Dec 19 - Jan 3. Me, my wife and our dog will be flying into PHX on Dec 19, will spend at least that night there and then are thinking about Tucson, Silver City, Las Cruces, Roswell,…
🚶♀️ Respect the Dwellings
Walk through and explore respectfully so future generations can enjoy this unique site. :handoverheart:
⏰ Arrive Before 4 PM
Allow at least 2 hours for the hike and exploration before the monument closes. :alarm_clock:
Drove to New Mexico from the east coast for spring break!
I go to school in Florida and decided to do a solo trip to your state from Miami. Best decision ever. I fell in love with New Mexico and saw some of the most beautiful nature and friendliest people I’ve ever met. Wanted to express how happy I was to go to New Mexico and hope to…
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Use Lower Gears on Drive
Protect your brakes on the steep, winding roads by shifting to a lower gear. 🚗
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the hike; only plain water is permitted inside the dwellings. :droplet:
🚶♀️ Respect the Dwellings
Walk through and explore respectfully so future generations can enjoy this unique site. :handoverheart:
⏰ Arrive Before 4 PM
Allow at least 2 hours for the hike and exploration before the monument closes. :alarm_clock:
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The 1-mile loop trail involves some steep sections and stairs. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awed by the Gila Cliff Dwellings, calling them a 'remarkably preserved' and 'absolutely amazing place.' The scenic, albeit challenging, drive is a significant part of the experience, with many spotting wildlife along the way. While the hike is moderate, the historical significance and unique opportunity to explore the dwellings firsthand make the journey well worth the effort.
"quite a long curvy road into the park from Silver city but what a gorgeous drive. The cliff dwellings are unique -very deep caved dwelling. Ranger station even has walking sticks. for short hike. We saw a coyote, mule deer and a roadrunner on drive in. O and a havalina running for outs life as a few dogs were chasing it 😞"
Julie Schaefer
"Short hike to amazing sight. Be sure to get there well before closing time (4pm) in order to have enough time to fully enjoy the hike and explore all of the cliff dwellings. It takes about 2 hours of driving through very windy roads at slow speeds, up and down the mountains from the entrance of the park all the to the parking lot where the hike begins that takes you too the cliff dwellings."
Brenda LeCompte
"What an absolutely amazing place. Be prepared to drive about 2 hours through very narrow, twisty, windy, mountain roads with drop offs. Drive slowly. I would suggest stopping by the visitor center first to get an overview and learn some of the history. Once you drive to the trailhead, rangers will go over a few rules and tell you about the 616 stair you will climb up and down. It is not a long trail, but is steep. It is so worth it though. The trail, is a loop, and crosses several bridges, over a small stream. It's quite beautiful. There is a viewpoint, before you reach the top, where you can get your first glimpse of the dwellings. There are several benches, if you need a break. This is one of the few places where you are still allowed to walk through and explore the dwelling, so please follow the rules and be respectful so future generations can still enjoy the experience. It's an absolutely amazing experience. Look for the corn cob bin! We really took our time and soaked it all in. Don't rush. Beautiful views on our way down. Take water, but only plain water.
There are a few viewpoints, archaeological sites, and points of interest on the drive that are worth stopping for. Check at the trailhead for info on a "Trail to the Past" you can visit a small dwelling and see pictographs."
Lorraine Mourning
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive from Silver City to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument takes approximately 2 hours, covering about 43 miles. The road is paved but very winding and mountainous, requiring slow speeds.
The most common route is via NM-15 (Forest Road 15) from Silver City. This road is scenic but challenging. Alternatively, NM-35 (Forest Road 35) is a longer but potentially easier drive.
Services are very limited on the drive. It's essential to fill up your gas tank and stock up on snacks and water in Silver City before you depart.
Due to the narrow, winding roads with steep drop-offs, large RVs and trailers are not recommended. Check with the National Forest Service for current road conditions and restrictions.
The drive is generally safe if you exercise caution, drive slowly, and use lower gears on descents. Be aware of potential wildlife on the road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. You can purchase passes at the trailhead or the visitor center.
The monument is typically open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, but it's always best to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date hours, especially during holidays or seasonal changes.
Yes, there is a visitor center near the trailhead where you can get information, maps, and learn about the history of the dwellings. Rangers are often available here.
The monument is generally accessible year-round, but road conditions can be affected by winter weather. Always check for closures before your visit.
America the Beautiful passes are accepted. Check the NPS website for information on other potential discounts or free entry days.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The hike is a 1-mile loop trail that takes you to and through the cliff dwellings. It's considered moderate due to some steep sections and stairs.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes. Layers are recommended as temperatures can change. Bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen.
No, it is strictly prohibited to touch, climb on, or remove anything from the cliff dwellings to preserve them for future generations.
Restrooms are available at the trailhead parking area near the visitor center. There are no facilities within the dwellings themselves.
The trail has steep sections and stairs, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. The 'Trail to the Past' offers a shorter, less strenuous option to see pictographs.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photographing the dwellings, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the textures of the rock.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Park Service areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check the official NPS policy for Gila Cliff Dwellings.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the dwellings and the surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be good for wildlife spotting on the drive in.
Yes, photography is allowed inside the dwellings, but please be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography that could disturb the environment.
There's a viewpoint before reaching the top that offers a first glimpse of the dwellings. The trail itself provides numerous angles for capturing the structures within their natural setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit