Gila Backcountry Services
Zack Crockett
23 Airstrip Rd
Gila Hot Springs, New Mexico
HC 68 Box 75Y
Silver City, NM 88061
Phone: 575.536.2213
info@gilabackcountryservices.com
From our headquarters at Gila Hot Springs, New Mexico we provide a variety of services for people who love the outdoors and want to hike and camp in the rugged, remote and beautiful Gila Wilderness Area in the Gila National Forest.
 
Our trips offer opportunities for hiking, swimming, fishing, botany, birding and wildlife watching, photography; as well as exploring rarely visited wild places and archeological sites.

Whether it’s an adventurous cross country trek or a simple family camp-out,
you won't need to carry a heavy load.  Our friendly, professional, experienced
guides and sturdy pack animals help maximize your time and enjoyment. 

Please take the time to read all the information on our website to find a trip that’s just right for you.  Camp sizes are limited to enhance your wilderness experience - spots fill fast, so reserve early.
Wilderness Camping
Operating under a special use permit from Gila National Forest.
Testimonial

"When I went on my three day pack
trip with Zack and Jamie, I wasn't sure
what to expect because it was my first time
camping.  But I was pleasantly surprised. 
Not only did we enjoy what Nature has
provided, but we were always learning
along the way, about plants, birds, insects,
wildlife, and more.  We hiked in with our
mule carrying the major part of the load. 
In the distance we could see smoke from
a summer forest fire.  Zack knew that
we were a safe distance away from the
fire, so it was a good opportunity to learn
about fire ecology.  The easy hike down
into the canyon filled the day, including
stopping for lunch along the way. 

"Once we came to our base camp,
the guide set up our tents and we
got into our bathing suits and walked over
to the hot springs.  New Mexico has the
most wonderful hot springs trails - you are
rewarded for your efforts by a leisurely
soak in these natural springs while looking up and gazing at the scenery unfolding above you.  After the soak, we went back to the campsite where Zack fixed a wonderful dinner and as we ate and drank our wine, we revisited the day's hike and what we had seen along the way.  The camp was so comfortable - Zack made every effort to make us feel at home way out in the wilderness.  While the cook cleaned up, we went back to the hot springs for an evening soak.  What a delightful way to end the day, leaning back and looking up at the stars!

"The hike out was a bit more strenuous as we were hiking up and out of the canyon.  But, having knowledgeable leaders like Zack and Jamie made the hike out relatively untaxing.  They don't push you beyond your abilities, and are always aware of your needs.  I look forward to going with them again because they make the whole experience interesting, challenging and fun."
-Paddy Tobey
  Alexandria, VA
In this remote and pristine  area,
discover and savor  the untamed Gila river, 
its canyons and mountains,
its hotsprings
and cool pools, 
its outrageous beauty, and its humble pleasures.
The Gila Wilderness

The Gila Wilderness was the world’s first designated Wilderness Area, and it’s the largest in the southwest.  It is known for its deep, rugged canyons, high peaks, magnificent scenery and great diversity of plant and animal life.  For more information about the Gila country please go to
Gila National Forest’s website.
Your guide, Zack Crockett, crossing the Gila River with Blanca, one of our pack mules
Middle Fork of the Gila River
On the trail in the high country
Gila Backcountry Services, Gila Hot Springs, New Mexico
info@gilabackcountryservices.com      575.536.2213