Location: Gila Cliff Dwellings Trailhead

NOTE: FRIDAY NIGHT CAMPING CANCELLED DUE TO FREEZING TEMPERATURES; SATURDAY BIRD OUTING STILL A GO!

Saturday, April 5: 8:00 am for birding, 1:00 pm for non-native plant pull.

Meet Ranger Jonah Snead at 8:00 am at the Cliff Dwellings trailhead, where we may see Painted Redstarts, Black-throated Gray Warblers and more. Depending on weather and conditions, we’ll walk near the West Fork or Middle Fork of the Gila River where we may see birds feeding near the water. Then we'll take a break back at camp to relax and refuel with lunch (participants must provide their own), before we take a walk up the West Fork trail at 1 pm to pitch in with non-native plant control.

Come for some or all activities! Some may choose to stay and camp an extra night. Be honest, you usually don't want to get back to civilization right away, do you?

What to bring: Binoculars (though we will have extra), work gloves, sturdy comfortable shoes, warm layers, and snacks. Bird Alliance of SWNM will provide sandwich makings.

Directions:  From Silver City, take Hwy 15 approximately 44 miles north. Alternatively, take Hwy 180 east to NM-152 N. At approximately 14 miles, head north on NM-35 for 27.5 mi to NM 15 N. Take NM-15 N for 2 miles. The second route is longer (68 mi) but with fewer curves; both routes are about 1 hour and 45 minutes from town.

Site Accessibility: Well-maintained 1.1-mile loop trail. Mostly packed dirt with uneven surfaces and moderate slope changes throughout. Trail includes over 600 stone stairs without handrails. Open and shaded areas. Birding available near the visitor center on a flat paved parking area. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms available.