Gila National Forest streams and rivers flowing high; roads boggy

Category: Local News Releases Local News Releases
Published: 15 March 2023 15 March 2023

Caution is advised for rafters, hikers, equestrians, and high country access

SILVER CITY, NM, March 15, 2023 – In an unusually wet spring on the Gila National Forest, caution is advised to nearly all visitors due to soft roads and abnormally high river flows. The 2022 monsoon season delivered nearly double the amount of rain as compared to an average season, with greater than average precipitation continuing through winter. As a result, water tables are recharged, and the ground remains saturated. Streams that typically only flow during or after recent storm events are still experiencing above-normal flows. 

Streamflow data from the United States Geological Survey shows elevated flows across the Gila National Forest, with many sites registering two to three times the long-term average flow. Hikers and equestrians are advised against attempts to cross any fork of the Gila River.

Rafters report numerous fallen-tree hazards across the Gila River, flooded campsites, and other safety concerns associated with high flows. Forest roads at higher elevations remain snowbound, boggy, and soft, ready to entrap the unsuspecting motorist. Access to Catwalk National Recreation Area is inadvisable due to 3-foot water depth at the last stream crossing. 

“All of the moisture from last summer, fall, and winter is a great blessing to a landscape affected by decades of drought conditions,” said Silver City District Ranger Elizabeth Toney. “However, it has also brought increased safety risks for all types of visitors to the Gila National Forest. Please plan ahead so you don’t get caught unaware and unprepared for the challenges you may face.”

The latest Gila Wilderness trail condition reports can be found at Gila Wilderness Trails Info. Learn more about current streamflow conditions throughout New Mexico at USGS Current Conditions for New Mexico_ Streamflow. Local snowpack information is available from the Natural Resource Conservation Service at NRCS Interactive Snowpack Map. For additional or site-specific information, call or stop by a local ranger district office to learn about the latest conditions.

Black Range Ranger District
575-894-6677
1804 N. Date Street,
Truth or Consequences, NM

Glenwood Ranger District
575-539-2481
Highway 180 S. 18 Ranger Station Road, Glenwood, NM

Reserve Ranger District
575-533-6232
5 Smokey Bear Circle, Reserve, NM

Quemado Ranger District
575-773-4678
#3 Lyle Loop, Quemado, NM

Silver City Ranger District
575-388-8201
3005 E. Camino del Bosque, Silver City, NM

Wilderness Ranger District
575-536-2250
3697 Highway 35 N, Mimbres, NM

 

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