The best walks and hikes in the Mogollon Mountains

The Little Bear Canyon and Middle Fork Gila Loop is a difficult 11.6-mile (18.7 km) hiking route that plunges you into the heart of the Gila Wilderness. Expect a dynamic journey through dramatic canyons, with the Middle Fork of the Gila River demanding frequent crossings amidst stunning cliffs and golden cottonwood trees. Little Bear Canyon offers its own unique charm, starting with cool, moss-caked narrows before revealing towering hoodoo cliffs, all while gaining 878 feet (268 metres) of elevation over approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes.

Planning your visit requires preparation for consistently wet feet due to the numerous river crossings; water shoes and trekking poles are highly recommended. Be mindful of the monsoon season from June to August, as flash floods can be a risk in the narrow canyons. Route-finding can also be challenging in places, so come prepared with a map and navigation skills for this remote adventure.

This loop stands out for its access to the primitive Jordan Hot Springs, offering a unique natural reward along the way. It's a true Gila Wilderness experience, showcasing diverse ecosystems from pinon and juniper to lush riverine vegetation, and providing a glimpse into the world's first designated wilderness area. The proximity to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument also adds a historical dimension to your wilderness exploration.

The Turkey Creek Hot Springs trail offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Gila Wilderness, leading you through diverse ecosystems from arid desert to vibrant riparian areas. You'll follow the creek, often framed by striking white sycamores, as the landscape unfolds with views of rugged cliffs and mountains. The destination is a secluded oasis of natural hot springs, providing a truly wild and peaceful soaking experience away from the crowds.

Planning your visit to Turkey Creek Hot Springs requires a bit of foresight due to its remote location. While this specific Komoot route is an easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hike with 276 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes, the surrounding area can be rugged. There's a camping area roughly two miles in if you're considering an overnight trip. Always bring plenty of water and be ready for a quiet, untouched natural setting.

What makes Turkey Creek Hot Springs particularly special is its untouched character within the vast Gila Wilderness. The journey itself is as rewarding as the destination, showcasing unique geological formations and a rich variety of native plants and wildlife. The relative difficulty of accessing the broader hot springs area ensures that these pristine pools remain uncrowded, offering an intimate connection with nature.

If you are seeking a profound wilderness experience, the West Fork, Big Bear Canyon, Middle Fork, and Little Bear Loop delivers with its rugged beauty and challenging terrain. This difficult 23.8-mile (38.3 km) hike, featuring 2712 feet (827 metres) of elevation gain, immerses you in the Gila Wilderness, guiding you through stunning canyon scenery, past the Middle Fork of the Gila River, and into the unique moss-covered narrows of Little Bear Canyon. Expect a true backcountry adventure, where solitude is abundant and the landscape constantly changes from open mesas to lush river floodplains.

Planning for this extensive loop, which typically takes around 10 hours and 51 minutes to complete, requires careful preparation. You will encounter numerous river crossings, so be ready for wet feet and consider bringing trekking poles for stability. Given the primitive trail markers in this designated wilderness area, carrying reliable offline maps is crucial for navigation. Always check weather forecasts, especially during monsoon season, as flash floods can be a hazard in the narrow canyons.

This trail is a test of endurance and self-reliance, offering a deep dive into an untouched landscape where wildlife observation is a possibility. The Gila Wilderness is known for its diverse ecosystem, and the sense of remoteness is a key draw for experienced hikers. While the trail itself is the main attraction, the nearby Gila Cliff Dwellings offer a fascinating historical detour, providing a glimpse into ancient civilizations.

The Middle Fork Trail to Lightfeather Hot Springs offers a truly unique experience in the Gila National Forest, leading you through a scenic canyon to natural, rock-walled pools. This easy hike is a short 0.7 miles (1.2 km) with a minimal 38 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, making it an accessible adventure for nearly everyone. You'll follow the Middle Fork Gila River, enjoying views of towering rock formations and diverse vegetation before reaching the inviting geothermal waters.

Planning your visit means preparing for multiple river crossings; water shoes or sandals are a must to keep your feet comfortable. The trailhead is easily reached from the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, making it a convenient stop. Be mindful of the *Naegleria fowleri* warning and avoid getting water up your nose in the springs. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be leashed and kept out of the hot springs, which are for day use only.

These primitive hot springs, also known as the Middle Fork Hot Spring, are fed by geothermal water that lacks the typical sulfur smell, offering a pleasant soaking experience. The varying temperatures in the pools allow you to find your perfect spot. With an estimated duration of just 18 minutes one way, this trail provides a quick and rewarding escape into the Gila Wilderness, perfect for families or those seeking an easy hike with a relaxing payoff.

The Cooney Canyon Trail offers a delightful and engaging hike through varied terrain, closely following Mineral Creek. You'll wander through narrow slot canyons, over bedrock, and across the creek multiple times, with colorful canyon walls and lush trees providing a beautiful backdrop. Keep an eye out for the unique "eye and needle" rock formation and a natural arch, making this 2.7-mile (4.3 km) easy route, with 546 feet (166 metres) of elevation gain, a scenic adventure that takes about 1 hour and 14 minutes.

Planning your visit to Cooney Canyon is straightforward; the trail is well-marked and stays near the creek, making it hard to get lost. It's a fantastic option for families and is dog-friendly, though you should be prepared for wet feet due to the numerous water crossings. This trail is often much less crowded than other popular spots in the area, offering a more tranquil experience, especially during the vibrant autumn months.

What truly sets this trail apart is its rich blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The path leads directly to the fascinating remnants of the old Cooney mining camp, where you can discover foundations, an old safe, and other artifacts. You'll also pass the tomb of Sgt. James Cooney, adding a layer of local history to your outdoor exploration.

The West Fork Trail #151 offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience through the Gila Wilderness, perfect for a leisurely outing. You'll wander alongside the West Fork of the Gila River, enjoying the shade of cottonwoods and willows, with impressive volcanic cliff formations rising around you. Crossing the West Fork Gila River Footbridge provides a charming moment and scenic views, making this an ideal trail for those seeking natural beauty without strenuous effort.

This easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) hike, with a modest 250 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes. The trailhead is conveniently located at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, where parking is available. While this section is short, it's wise to bring water, especially on warm days, and consider visiting in spring or fall for the most pleasant weather.

This particular segment of the West Fork Trail #151 provides a fantastic introduction to the Gila Wilderness's unique ecosystem and geology, without the extensive river crossings or rugged terrain of the longer backcountry route. It's a great option for families or anyone looking for a relaxing walk to observe the local flora and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the threatened Gila Trout in the river. It also connects you directly to the historical Gila Cliff Dwellings.

Step onto the Catwalk National Recreation Trail and immerse yourself in a truly distinctive canyon experience. This moderate 2.0-mile (3.3 km) hike, with 370 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along metal walkways suspended above Whitewater Creek, offering unparalleled views of towering pink volcanic rock walls and hidden pools. The canyon acts as a lush, cool oasis, featuring a diverse arboretum with Juniper, Ponderosa Pine, and Sycamore trees, creating a refreshing atmosphere as you walk above the rushing water.

Planning your visit to the Catwalk National Recreation Trail is straightforward, but consider arriving early to secure a spot in the parking area, especially on busy days. The initial portion of the trail is universally accessible, perfect for families and beginners, but if you continue beyond the main catwalk system, be ready for varied terrain, including potential descents into the streambed and navigating over rock formations. The trail typically takes around 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete, making it an excellent option for a shorter outing.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its blend of natural beauty and historical engineering. The metal catwalks follow the route of an 1890s mining-era pipeline, a testament to human ingenuity in an otherwise impassable gorge. This unique construction allows you to explore a dramatic landscape that would otherwise be inaccessible, offering a glimpse into both the region's past and its stunning natural features. It's a fantastic way to experience the Gila National Forest.

The Little Bear Canyon Trail to Jordan Hot Springs offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey into the heart of the Gila National Forest. You'll start in a desert scrubland before descending into the dramatic Little Bear Canyon, where towering hoodoo cliffs create a striking landscape. The trail then follows the Middle Fork of the Gila River, winding through canyons lined with golden cottonwood and white sycamore trees, leading you to the primitive Jordan Hot Springs for a well-deserved soak.

This difficult 11.2-mile (18.0 km) hike, with 1220 feet (372 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 5 hours and 4 minutes one way, so plan for an overnight trip or a very long day. You'll encounter many river crossings, so bring water shoes as your feet will get wet. The best time to visit is between May and November, but always check for flash flood warnings, especially during rainy seasons.

What makes this trail truly special is its location within the country's first designated wilderness, offering a remote and natural adventure away from the crowds. The primitive Jordan Hot Springs, with water temperatures ranging from 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, are the perfect therapeutic reward after navigating the varied terrain. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including potential rattlesnakes during warmer months, as you immerse yourself in this unique wilderness experience.

The Gila Cliff Dwellings Loop Trail offers a fascinating journey through a diverse landscape of juniper, pine, and oak trees, leading you directly to the ancient Gila Cliff Dwellings. You'll cross the West Fork Gila River Footbridge at the start, then navigate uneven surfaces and some steep, rocky steps as you ascend into Cliff Dweller Canyon, where the remarkably preserved dwellings are nestled. It's a short but engaging route that blends natural beauty with profound history.

This easy 1.1-mile (1.8 km) hiking loop, with just 144 feet (44 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 30 minutes to complete, not including time spent exploring the dwellings. While the overall difficulty is easy, the trail does feature uneven stone steps that require sturdy footwear and careful footing. For the most up-to-date information on access and any specific requirements for visiting the Gila Cliff Dwellings, it's always best to consult the official National Park Service website.

The primary draw of this trail is the unique opportunity to walk directly into the Gila Cliff Dwellings, ancient rooms built by the Mogollon people in the late 1200s. These structures, set 180 feet above the canyon floor, still contain original wooden beams and offer a tangible connection to the past. The monument is an important Indigenous cultural heritage site, preserving architectural examples from the Southern Ancestral Pueblo culture within the vast Gila Wilderness.