Backpacking the Gila Wilderness, New Mexico Spring Break

Trip Description

Experience what famous naturalist Aldo Leopold had in mind with this incredible outdoor adventure. You will hike over 35 miles in the Turkey Creek basin in the remote Gila Wilderness, America's 1st Wilderness (1924). Backcountry travel and navigation skills are required with long hard days and cold nights! You'll rest your feet at the end of the week with a soak in the Turkey Creek hot springs! Expect difficult trail sections while scrambling on slippery wet rocks with multiple stream crossings (30 plus) and hard to find campsites.

Some details for you to think about:

  • 115 degree hot spring water

  • Elevation of about 8,000ft

  • Average nighttime low 25 degrees F

  • Experience required for this trip.

Contact the Outing Club for more information and to reserve your spot. Full payment is required upon registration. Call 458-4066 or outing@wlu.edu

Gilla Clif Dwellings Information

National Park Service