Middle Fork Gila River – The Hike

A mild, calm night gave way to a morning around 40 degrees. It was 54 degrees in my tent, so I had a very comfortable night.

After a leisurely breakfast, we set off around 6:40. Continuous dowsing at river crossings kept our feet cool. The air was cold enough that my fingers were cold. The stillness was only interrupted by the occasional bird and the murmur of the Gila River.

We passed two hikers talking while one rolled up his gear. Sherpa Crow passed us later. I was going to go out of the canyon to see it and then go back in. I thought it was nice to have that kind of energy.

The morning light on the canyon walls and spiers was stunning. I couldn’t wait for some of that sun to hit the canyon floor and warm me up. I think it was around 9:30 when the first rays penetrated the canyon.

This trail has me constantly looking at rock walls that vary in shape, roughness, and height. The contrast with the blue sky is brilliant. I found myself taking photographs in the middle of the river trying to capture the complexity of the water, trees and rocks.

Today we must have crossed the river 50 times. Some crossings were made over slippery rocks and slippery holes. Cappuccino fell several times and soaked his clothes. She was a true champion when it came to falling and maintained a good attitude. One time SloBro and I tried to help her out of the water and SloBro went in too. We all laughed about it at dinner.

This is a very interesting trail. Keeps your attention with river crossings, trail finding, and stunning scenery. After only two days, I highly recommend it.

This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any products or services you purchase using links in articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price they would otherwise pay, and their purchase helps support The Trek’s ongoing goal of bringing you quality backpacking information and advice. Thank you for your support!

For more information, visit the About page of this site.