Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

For thousands of years, groups of nomads used the caves above Cliff Dweller Creek as temporary shelter. In the late 1200s, people of the agricultural Mogollon (Southern Ancestral Pueblo) culture made it a home. They built rooms, crafted pottery and raised children in the cliff dwellings for one or two generations. By approximately 1300, the Mogollon had moved on, leaving the walls behind.

Sunrise view of Gila Cliff Dwellings with brilliant sky.

About Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

For thousands of years, groups of nomads used the caves above Cliff Dweller Creek as temporary shelter. In the late 1200s, people of the agricultural Mogollon (Southern Ancestral Pueblo) culture made it a home. They built rooms, crafted pottery and raised children in the cliff dwellings for one or two generations. By approximately 1300, the Mogollon had moved on, leaving the walls behind.

Quick Facts

Location: NM
Designation: National Monument

Operating Hours

The National Monument and Visitor Center are open all year and are closed only for Thanksgiving Day (the 4th Thursday of November), Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year's Day (January 1).

Wednesday: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Monday: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Thursday: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Sunday: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Tuesday: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Friday: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Saturday: 9:00AM - 4:00PM

Activities

Astronomy Stargazing Camping Car or Front Country Camping Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hiking Backcountry Hiking Front-Country Hiking Horse Trekking Horse Camping (see also camping) Horseback Riding Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Guided Tours & Experiences

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