Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, Gila

The Gila Cliff Dwellings are one of numerous dwellings within the Gila Wilderness. At the end of the monument parking lot you can access the West Fork of the Gila trail (Trail 151). Hike in on a well maintained trail brings you to the lesser known 3-Mile Dwelling (unoriginally named after how far it is located from trail head). Bring water and sunscreen as before you enter the West Fork Gila River canyon of incredible rock formations, there is a nice walk through open meadows and forest that is proposed to be designated Wild and Scenic River. Grapevines and wild raspberries abound. Hike in further to reach more dwellings in cliffs and Hell's Hole.

So cool! Dogs are not allowed on the path but there are free kennels that you can leave them in, and a ranger at the beginning of the path that makes sure people know the rules, pay the $10 fee, and can keep an eye on the dog. Really amazing to see and definitely worth it, particularly if you have your America the Beautiful pass. Lots of free campgrounds nearby with vault toilets, pack your own water/trash.