• Visitors hike along the base of the Gila Cliff Dwellings.

    Gila Cliff Dwellings

    National Monument New Mexico

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  • Cliff Dwellings Closed June 3 through 7; TJ Site Tours Offered

    The Gila Cliff Dwellings will be closed from June 3 through 7, 2013 for hazard rock removal from the cliff face directly above the dwellings. Ranger-guided tours of the TJ Site will be offered at 11 am and 2 pm while the cliff dwellings are closed. More »

Rivers and Streams

A photo of the Gila River viewed from Route 15 enroute to the Cliff Dwellings

Gila River viewed from Route 15

NPS Photo by Barry Nielsen

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument lies at the confluence of the West and Middle Forks of the Gila River. At this point the rivers are usually less than fifty feet wide and about a foot deep. Hikers should be aware that during the rainy season of July-September, runoff from rains in distant canyons may create flash floods.

Gila River flow data maintained by US Geological Suvey

Did You Know?

Shell Bracelet

A shell bracelet found in the Gila Cliff Dwellings in New Mexico was traced to the Gulf of California.  Other items indicate trade among the peoples of a large region including macaw parrot feathers, seeds from Mesoamerica, a buffalo scapula, and textiles from plants not grown in the area.