On the lookout for your next favorite hike? The popular travel magazine, Travel + Leisure, recently published a list of their favorite hikes across the country and it features some stunning locations. For New Mexico, they highlighted the Middle Fork Trail, a hiking trail on the western side of the state.
The Middle Fork Trail sits isolated in the vast Gila Wilderness, with the nearest town over an hour’s drive away.
KrisNM/Flickr
Spanning a total of 11 miles over and back, this trail follows the Middle Fork Gila River and goes through Little Bear Canyon.
James Torrence/AllTrails
The trail is ranked as moderately difficult—there are some river crossings and the trail is small but well-worn.
William Huelster/Google You’ll begin the trail just outside the Gila Visitor Center near the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.
Along the way, you’ll see some impressive views of rock formations and the riparian environment along the river.
William Huelster/Google
You’ll also pass by the tiny Lightfeather Hot Spring sitting right off the side of the river.
Shawna/Google The National Park Service notes the spring source can reach temperatures of 130 degrees. The river water mixed with the steady flow of the hot spring makes this a nice spot for a quick foot soak.
The Middle Fork Trailhead is located just two miles east of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument via NM-15.
Google Maps
The trail measures a total of 11 miles, so be prepared with plenty of water. For additional information about the trail and a map, visit the Forest Service website or AllTrails.
KrisNM/Flickr
James Torrence/AllTrails
William Huelster/Google
You’ll begin the trail just outside the Gila Visitor Center near the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.
Shawna/Google
The National Park Service notes the spring source can reach temperatures of 130 degrees. The river water mixed with the steady flow of the hot spring makes this a nice spot for a quick foot soak.
Google Maps
Website: U.S. Forest Service AllTrails: Middle Fork Gila River Trail
When you’re out and about, remember to leave no trace. We want to preserve treasured spots in our state for future generations.
Does an 11-mile hike sound daunting? Opt for an easier one like the Cave Creek Trail in the Pecos Wilderness. Read about the trail details and lovely views in Embark On This Underrated Cave Trail For An Easy Day Trip Near Santa Fe, New Mexico.
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Address: Middle Fork Gila River, New Mexico, USA
