Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument encompasses a total area of 533 acres in the extreme southern portion of Catron County, New Mexico. To access the main entrance to the park, visitors can drive approximately 44 miles north of Silver City, New Mexico on NM 15. 

The park was proclaimed a national monument on November 16, 1907, and added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) on October 15, 1966, and to the NMSRCP (New Mexico State Register of Cultural Properties) on May 21, 1971. The national monument is currently governed by the National Park Service. 

The unique feature of the national monument is the well-preserved cliff dwellings in natural cavities on the face of an overhanging cliff. These dwellings offer a glimpse of the lives and homes of the people of the Mogollon culture who lived in the Gila Wilderness between 1280 and the early 1300s. 

Besides this cultural and historical feature, visitors can also get to marvel at hot springs in the area. Furthermore, the park is also a favorite among visitors that love recreational activities like hiking. Some of the facilities in the park to facilitate these activities include a visitor center, restrooms, museum, and self-guided trails.

Also, if you have a pooch, you can bring them into Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and enjoy your time in the park, but you will have to follow the park’s rules if you want to avoid getting into any trouble with the park’s management. Some of the rules regarding dogs are as follows. 

First, you have to ensure that you avoid areas of the park that are out-of-bounds to dogs. Such areas include the visitor center and other park buildings. Secondly, for areas of the park that you can access with your dog, you should ensure that your dog is always on a leash. Third, it is expected that you will clean up after your dog. This means that it's a good idea to carry some poop bags with your for your convenience.