With varied terrain from open meadows to high peaks, Ponderosa forests to 500ft deep canyons with crystal clear streams, the Gila National Forest is comprised of 3.3 million acres of Wilderness and National Forest land in the mountains of Southwest New Mexico. Dramatic cliff dwellings and warm spring-fed creeks abound, and wildlife freely roams the landscape. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or horseback riding, the Gila National Forest makes for an incredibly unique New Mexico vacation that should be on your bucket list. Start planning your New Mexico getaway with our free New Mexico Itinerary, and get tailored recommendations for great places to visit while you’re in New Mexico.
How to Enjoy a Unique New Mexico Vacation at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch
Go Horseback Riding
The pristine panoramas of Southwest New Mexico open before you on our guided horseback riding excursions. With the help of your loyal equine friend and expert guides (ranch owners, Meris and Seth), you’ll venture into some of the most fascinating destinations in the country! The Gila National Forest’s untouched remoteness and pristine beauty are like nothing you’ve seen before. So, get ready to saddle up for everything this unique New Mexico vacation has to offer.
View the Local Wildlife
Did you know that the Gila National Forest is home to more than 400 species of animals? It’s the perfect place to observe wildlife in their natural habitat! In the spring, summer and fall months, guests can spot a variety of species including elk, mule deer, javalina, coyotes, bald eagles, red-tail hawks, coatimundi, and more! This is a fantastic place for bird watchers as well! Although we don’t officially offer guided wildlife or birding tours, every day you spend exploring the Gila will lead you to some of the best wildlife observation locations in New Mexico.
Break Away from Your Screen
When you’re not trekking through the vast terrain of the Gila, Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch offers plenty of ranch fun without any electronics! From board games and an extensive local library to fantastic stargazing, there’s always something to do. Usually, after dinner, our guests will gather around the campfire and exchange tales from their day, roast marshmallows, or sing campfire songs. When the skies are clear, don’t forget to look up to view one of the darkest night skies with the most stars visible anywhere in the US! With the beauty of nature around you, you’ll finally discover the true meaning and value of “unplugging.”
More to Explore in New Mexico
If you’re already dreaming of exploring the Gila on horseback, you’ll be equally enchanted by the rest of New Mexico’s natural wonders. Many of our guests often pair their stay at our dude ranch with a visit to other fascinating locations in The Land of Enchantment.
Here are a few of the most popular area attractions:
- White Sands National Monument
- Bandelier National Monument
- Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
- Carlsbad Caverns National Park
- Riverbend Hot Springs
- Petroglyph National Monument
The Best Lodging for Your New Mexico Vacation
An escape to Southwest New Mexico is truly a trip like no other. At Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch, we offer all the necessary amenities to make your stay cozy and memorable. Each of our cabins is uniquely designed to provide the utmost comfort while embracing the culture of our region. Plus, our delicious home-style meals will give you all the fuel you need to explore our mesmerizing surroundings day after day.
If you’re ready to enjoy the vacation of a lifetime, check our availability and book your stay today! We can’t wait to introduce you to The Land of Enchantment.