After a two hour drive through beautiful desert/forest countryside we arrived at Gila Cliff Dwelling National forest that is the home of the Cliff Dwellings.
The Cliff Dwellings were the home of the ancient Puebloan people. Archeologists call this the Mogollon area. It is believed that these were built approx. 700 years ago and were most likely home to several different groups. Evidence suggests that the Apache migrated to the upper Gila River in the 1500s. Apache leader Geronimo (tribe name Goyahkla) was born in the Gila River area.
To get to the cliff dwellings you hike a slim trail along a shallow creek steadily climbing. There are several wooden bridges and many rock stairs. After about a half mile and a set of stone stairs, the cliff dwellings come into view. The site was unbelievable and you could tell from far away, they were in incredible condition. We continued on the trail until we were walking right beside the dwellings. Before Covid you could climb the ladders and experience the interior of these incredible dwellings made of mud bricks and mortar.
Because this national monument is fairly remote, there were very few people visiting the dwellings; plus you must be able to navigate the steep steady climb.
This was another incredible day experiencing our great country.
Check our our video below!
Neato…makes me think- how in the world they were able to sustain themselves living there… no AC, plumbing, Ipads…good grieve I wouldn’t have made it…food” great day could they have had gardens…my minds running away on this…looks to be a real mind teaser. on who and how they lived there…
Glad to hear your having loads of fun..keep it up…John
It really makes you wonder, especially when you are there looking around and at such a height.
Wow. Incredible views! Love the photography!.
Thanks! It was unbelievable! Thanks for helping make this dream retirement happen!
Oh, I would love to see this! Enjoy.
It was incredible to be two of about 6 people there!
That is magnificent! Thank you!
Thanks, it really was an incredible site!
Definitely on our must see list! Amazing!!
It was incredibly cool! I think Mesa Verde is going to be so cool…
Looks awesome! And great video as usual!
It was so cool….mostly because we were almost alone up there!
Magnificent!
It was so cool especially with so few people!