The Gila National Forest is one of the more remote and least developed National Forests in the southwest. Covering 3.3 million acres of forest and range land, the Forest is the sixth largest National Forest in the continental United States.

The Forest is also home to the first proclaimed wilderness area set aside in 1924 for primitive forms of recreation without motorized vehicles and mechanized equipment. This allows an opportunity to experience the wild lands in a way similar to days of the past.

The diverse landscape consists of rugged mountains, deep canyons, meadows, and semi-desert. Elevations range from 4,200 feet to 11,000 feet. The forest is home to wildlife such as black bear, elk, deer, mountain lion, antelope, bighorn sheep, and wild turkey.