Gila Cliff Dwellings & Catwalk Canyon | Ancient Mogollon History, Scenic Hikes & RV Camping

Step back in time and explore the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and Catwalk Canyon Recreation Area in New Mexico! In this episode, we hike through snow-dusted canyons, visit 700-year-old cliff dwellings built by the Mogollon people, and share tips for camping and RV travel in one of the Southwest’s most fascinating regions.

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⬇️ Visitor Guide & Historical Insights ⬇️

🏛 Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

Built in the late 1200s by the Mogollon people, with over 40 rooms across five caves.

Abandoned after only 20–30 years but left remarkably preserved.

Designated a National Monument in 1907, located inside the first U.S. designated wilderness area.

Connected to Apache history — Geronimo was born near the Gila River.

Trail: 1-mile loop with moderate elevation (about 18 flights of stairs). Dogs are not allowed.


🌉 Catwalk Recreation Area (Whitewater Canyon)

Once the site of a pipeline delivering water to 1890s gold & silver mines.

The “catwalk” name came from miners walking the narrow suspended pipe.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) rebuilt it in the 1930s.

Destroyed by floods several times but restored with modern steel walkways.

Family-friendly, dog-friendly (Pete joined in a backpack), and one of New Mexico’s most unique hikes.


📌 Other Highlights in This Video

Emory Pass Scenic Overlook – free boondocking with sweeping mountain views.

Hillsboro, NM – historic mining town turned artsy mountain village.

Glenwood, NM – gateway to the Catwalk, with local cafes and small-town charm.


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⬇️ Travel Tips ⬇️

Arrive early at Gila Cliff Dwellings — limited parking.

Closest major hub: Silver City, NM (fuel, groceries, restaurants).

Winter visits = fewer crowds, but snow may cover trails.

Camping:

Emory Pass Scenic Overlook – Free boondocking, pit toilets.

Near Gila Cliff Dwellings – Primitive spots near Gila Hot Springs.
GPS: 33°09'54.1"N, 108°11'52.9"W

Catwalk Boondocking – Just north of Leopold Vista Picnic Area.
GPS: 33°11'38.0"N, 108°49'52.9"W



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⏰ Time Codes ⏰
0:00 – Emory Pass Scenic Overlook Boondocking
1:25 – Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument Hike
8:15 – Camping Near Gila Hot Springs
10:06 – Catwalk Recreation Area Hike

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👋 Who We Are!
We’re Derek and Ashley, full-time travelers exploring North America in our Jayco Swift 20TLi RV with our pup, Pete. We share practical travel tips, unique history, and the real ups and downs of van life.

#GilaCliffDwellings #CatwalkCanyon #NewMexicoTravel #AncientHistory #RVLife #VanLifeAdventures #HikingNewMexico #NationalMonuments #GilaNationalForest #USNationalParks