Our exciting horseback journey in the Gila Wilderness begins as we pass through grass and fern meadows where wildflowers surround beaver ponds and squirrels scamper up majestic pine trees. We make tracks to the highest peaks and the best swimming holes. Striking rock bluffs amaze us as we ride along listening to the creak of saddle leather and birdsong. Endless vistas offer unique photographic opportunities.

There are days when riders can master the challenge of a long ride and those who need a break from the saddle can enjoy hiking, reading, birdwatching, or just hangin’ out around camp. Each day we’ll ride between seven and 20 miles.

Pause for lunch at a picturesque spot, stretch your legs and explore a bit. Everyday concerns will be forgotten amid the natural beauty that spans all zones from desert to alpine and exposes you to an incredible variety of terrain, plants, and wildlife.

The Camp
We pitch camp in the most picturesque locations; imagine the serenity of a green, grassy meadow beside a soothing, clear water creek. Our good-humored wranglers unpack the mules, unsaddle the horses and handle the gear. Other camp chores include gathering wood, fetching water, feeding the livestock and setting up tents. Guest assistance is always welcome but never expected.

A remarkable fact about the Gila: there are no fleas, ticks, or chiggers, no Gila monsters, and only rarely a few mosquitoes! Who would have imagined roughing it without the usual annoyances! There will be layover days with optional rides or you may choose to spend some time around camp in another favorite activity. Try hiking, reading, taking pictures, birdwatching, fishing, swimming or whatever gives you pleasure.

After a day on the trail, shuck off your boots and hats and relax with new friends around the campfire. Anticipate a real cowboy spread. We’re not talkin’ only beans & biscuits! Fresh fruits, vegetables, salads, and homemade desserts complement some of the best food ever, including some Southwestern cuisine.

Special diets are easily accommodated, just let us know what you need.

After dinner, enjoy campfire coffee as you listen to wranglers spin tall tales. Soon everyone joins in the good-natured, light-hearted conversation while a million stars appear above.

The Gila
Thanks to Aldo Leopold, the Gila was designated America’s first wilderness in 1924. It is accessible only by simple mountain trails once traveled by prospectors, Apaches and cavalrymen. Infamous historical figures abound in this region. Geronimo’s last stronghold was in Teepee Canyon in the southwestern part of the wilderness. Centuries ago, the Gila was inhabited by cliff dwellers who left us a well preserved example of their lives at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.

The Gila is home to a great variety of wildlife including elk, deer, bear, bobcat, cougar, coyote, fox, wolf and bighorn sheep. A large assortment of birds, as well as countless butterflies, inhabit the Gila. What a wonderful place to explore the endless array of trees, plants and wildflowers!

One more claim to fame for the Gila is the dark night sky.  You will see the most brilliant star show possible!  Reach for one of those stars – come visit the Gila Wilderness!

El Paso Tours
Phone: 888-851-6081
Fax: 800-410-8234

http://www.ElPasoTours.net