Wa l k o n t h e W i l d S i d e
December / January 2022 ready for cold, warmth, rain, and to be hiking through knee-deep springs. For backpacking and camping, you need to be thoroughly prepared and I would recommend
using
one
of
the
many
backpackers’ checklists that experienced hikers have created on Youtube and other online platforms. It’s always good to start with the ten essentials: • Navigation • Lighting (flashlight or headlamp) • Sun protection
T
he quick 3.5-hour drive into the Gila National Park in southern New Mexico
• First aid kit • Knife • Firestarters • Shelter • Extra food • Extra water • Extra clothes
is as unforgettable as it is breathtaking. The most direct route to access the
The trail, number 729 on the official Gila
park is via I-10 to Deming and then
National Forest Map issued by the USDA, is
up Highway 180 through Silver City,
a long-standing staple for backpackers and
however, you can also access it via
day hikers alike due to its ease of access,
I-25 near Truth or Consequences,
inclusion in multiple Gila hiking guide books,
New Mexico.
and its sheer beauty.
I chose the backroads, up through Mimbres,
The beginning starts with a relatively moderate
New Mexico, and on into the Gila through one
climb along the ridge of Little Bear Canyon.
of its eastern entrances. I was immediately greeted by a beautiful mix of alpine and high-
During the cool fall and winter months, this
desert flora. It seemed remarkable to me,
2.5-mile stretch can be lovely, however,
the quick transition into the forest and high
during the summer it’s quite arduous. Be
mountain passes. It wasn’t long before I saw
sure to pack lots of water as there is no
my first deer and a small family of javelina
water source along this portion of the trail,
crossing the road.
but the water is plentiful to filter or boil once you reach the Middle Fork.
After a twisty and turning hour of climbing and descending deeper into the woods, I
After the initial ascent up the ridgeline, I
finally arrived at TJ Corral trailhead about 34
dropped into Little Bear Canyon and was
miles into the heart of the Gila. This would be
dwarfed by the massive and sheer cliffs that
my launching point. My mission: a 7.5-mile
surround the narrow route to the Middle Fork
hike into the wilderness to explore and camp
of the Gila River.
at the infamous Jordan Hot Springs. Upon reaching Middle Fork, I swapped my
90
The key to the success of any backpacking
hiking boots for a pair of water shoes and
trip is to be thoroughly prepared. I was
neoprene socks to prepare for the numerous www.thecitymagazineelp.com