Chiricahua Apache Ride New Mexico USA The Gila Wilderness is one of the few places left in the United States where one can still serve witness to untouched nature… On a typical day in the Gila Wilderness, you might very well find a herd of pronghorn grazing on the rich grassland… observe a desert tortoise going about his business the way he has for millions of years… Freezing in your tracks while javelina scurry along a migration trail… Feeling the natural soothing heat of a hot spring flowing into the river… It’s all here in the Gila Wilderness…Customized guided wilderness adventures expertly designed to concentrate on the surrounding environment, plant and animal identification methods, as well as seasonal foraging techniques. Your pack trip will provide you with an opportunity to experience fundamental techniques and knowledge of outdoor living skills; experiences essential for a safe, minimum impact, leave no trace, active enjoyment of this rugged and vast country. Chiricahua Apache people believe these lands were set in prefect foundation specifically for the Chiricahua. Chiricahua Apaches were created here and from time immemorial have been present here. Chiricahua Apache predate all other cultures here in the Gila region, others attempted to settle, unsuccessfully. Your trail guide is Apache Joe Saenz, of Chihe'ne (Warm Springs Apache) ancestry, with extensive guiding experience in horseback and backpacking expeditions throughout the American Rocky Mountains, including Canada, Mexico’s Sierra Madre and Alaskan Brooks Range. The area offers a variety of terrain and trails. Easy gentle trails for the beginning and intermediate riders yet providing ample challenges for the more experienced rider and the adventurer. Ride through open grassy meadows and wandering low canyons. Follow cottonwood lined creeks and dry seasonal arroyos. See ancient pueblo petroglyphs, and stand in "Awe" of the world's largest Alligator Juniper, the "Big Tree". Discuss historical aspects of the Apache, the Pueblo Indians, Buffalo Soldiers, the Miners, and international conflicts, over this sacred, vast and rich land. Rates include accommodations, meals starting day two, 5 riding days, nature and history guide. Camping Ride with pack horses Family Vacation Suitable for riders over 210 lbs Meeting: Gila National Forest Trailhead Airport:   El Paso Transfer: Silver City Trip Brochure (PDF)

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

Gratuity: 15 % (to be paid locally)

Tax: 6.05 %  

 

Rates Note:

Ask about special weeks which includes Native American Cultural Experience (PoW-Wow)

Transfer and Other Charges:

Shorter trips (min 4 days) and longer trips (max 7 nights) can also be arranged on request.

Nature provides plentiful variety in the Gila National Forest, in southwest New Mexico. The United States Congress designated the Gila Wilderness in 1964 and it now contains over 3,300,000 acres and is managed by U.S. Forest Service making it the sixth largest National Forest in the continental United States.

Travel on horseback through this rugged countryside, the region and homeland of the Chiricahua Apache, who when pursued, would just dissolve into its landscape, taking routes through these mountains... the trails and routes that we'll retrace.

Discover the raw beauty of Gila's sunrises, sunsets and the endless miles of challenging trails, varied terrain and Gila's ever changing weather.

Participants must be in relative good health. Trips consist of daily intensive riding, and routes are always in a loop to avoid riding same trails. These rides emphasize philosophies of minimal environmental & Leave No Trace impact.

This trip, with its authentic guide, presents Native American historical indigenous perspectives and interpretive services in regards to American western history and to the appreciative relationship of the natural resources of Dzil, which were once preserved and protected by Ndee ancestors. So for your group getaway, an educational journey, your solo wilderness trek, a romantic wilderness escape, or a family reunion, come join us for an experience your heart and senses will never forget!

                                            Silver City area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	53	57	62	70	78	88	87	85	81	71	60	53
Average Low Temperature (°F)	27	29	33	38	46	55	60	59	53	43	33	27
Average High Temperature (°C)	12	14	17	21	26	31	31	29	27	22	16	12
Average Low Temperature (°C)	-3	-2	0	3	8	13	15	15	12	6	0	-3
Average Precipitation (days of rain)	3	3	2	1	1	3	10	9	5	4	2	3

Source: NOAA


Seasons
Before 'Land of Enchantment' became the official State description, New Mexico was known as ‘The Sunshine State’ because it receives well above the average national levels of sunshine each year. But with a state as large and varied as New Mexico, the climate differs considerably from one place to the next.

Uniquely located to ensure year-round comfortable riding conditions, the Gila Wilderness has the benefit of high-elevation cooling during the summer and southerly warmth during the winter. No matter what time of year - spring, summer, fall or winter - we have the perfect trail for any time of year.

The park has a mild climate, with a rainy season usually from July through August. Temperatures during the day are warm but frost may occur during the night in canyons above 8000 ft. From July to September, thunderstorms are widespread and occur almost daily. Daytime temperatures tend to be relatively mild or warm and nighttime temperatures tend to be relatively cool or cold throughout the year. Average temperatures in the higher elevation, particularly the Mogollon Range, can be cooler, depending on the season.

Spring and Fall have moderate days and cool nights. The most beautiful times of the year in the Gila are spring and late summer. In spring, snowmelt provides enough moisture to initiate new vegetative growth. In late summer, it is warm and the vegetation is still green following the end of summer rainfall season.

Winter months often have nice afternoons with cold mornings and nights. Daytime temperatures can get cold during winter but, in direct sunlight, temperatures may rise to 70 F (21 C). However, temperatures during the night drop significantly. Snow occurs most frequently between December and February. During most winters the lower elevations tend to be free of snow most of the time and when it does snow the melt-off usually occurs within a few days. Normally there is some snow accumulation in the higher elevations and during severe winters, the snow may range up to 10 feet or more in the Mogollon Range. Melt-off usually occurs during late March and April, but snow and ice may hinder travel on upper elevation trails as late as June.

First and last nights are bed and breakfast meals only.

EQUIPMENT LIST

Please pack light
Only day packs
No duffel bags

* Equipment that we will provide
-Items that can be shared with a partner or group
^ Equipment you have to bring
Highlighted items are mandatory.

TACK
* Saddle, should include breast collar and flank cinch
* Saddle pads
* Halter / Bridal & reins
* Rope
* Large saddle pack/saddle bags
* - Curry Brush
* Easy boots
* - Fence pliers
* Feed (small alfalfa pellets/sweet feed)
* Feed Bags (Morels)
* - Horseshoeing Kit: Rasp /Hammer / Clincher /Nails / Horse Shoes

If you use your own stock and tack, our partners reserves the right to evaluate a horse's ability and tack's condition to decide if they can be used on pending ride. Please make sure livestock is properly shod prior to your arrival.

TOILETRIES
^ Comb
^ Deodorant
- ^ Mirror
^ Tooth brush/Toothpaste (small)
^ Chap Lip ointment
^ Towel (Hand size)
^ Toilet paper roll
^ Lighter / Matches (waterproof)
^ Razor
- ^ Shampoo / Conditioner / Soap (personal size containers, biodegradable)
No Suds in the water . . .

CLOTHES - LAYERED CLOTHING
^ Hat / Bandana
^ Jacket/Light Coat/Vest/Sweater
^ Light Leather Gloves/Work Gloves
^ Rain slicker / Poncho / Outback / Australian style slicker
^ Light sturdy boots / Riding boots
^ Belt
^ Jeans or light sturdy wool pants (one pair)
^ Shirt - Long Sleeves
^ T-shirt - 2
^ Thermal top/bottom
^ Shorts / Swim Suits
^ Socks - wool, cotton, two pair
^ Light Campshoes
^ Underwear - 2 sets

CAMP GEAR
* - Tarp 6’ x 8 ‘ or 7’ x 10’
^ Goose Down Sleeping bag (Compressible)
* Sleep wear: pair of socks, T-shirt, shorts
* - Tent / Rain Fly Shelter
* - Rope
- Parachute Cord, 25’-50’
* - Small campstove / Backpacking Stove with small fuel container
* - Dish, Silverware, Cup, Bowl
* Cookware/Pot

PERSONAL GEAR
^ Sturdy Day Pack with Waist Belt
^ Knife/Lock Blade Knife/Sheath
- ^ Flashlight/Mag Lite
- ^ Extra Batteries
- ^ Water Purifying tablets
- ^ Pump Water Filter
^ Camera / Film
^ Sunblock
^ Travel documents and voucher
^ Passport
^ VISA (check with your consulate)

FOOD  
Food provided by our partners is a variety of healthy and popular types of foods. From gourmet meals to trail snacks, all food groups are represented. Meats, vegetables,
pasta, dairy, fruits, grains, snacks, tea, coffee, honey, butter and great sandwiches.
Please notify us if you are allergic to any foods or substances.

OPTIONAL (BUT NOT NECESSARY)
^ Chaps
- ^ Fishing License/Gear (Minimal light)
^ Belt Pouch “Survival Pack”, Compass, Magnesium Bar, Etc.
^ Sunglasses
- ^ Personal First Aid Kit
^ Medications, Vitamins

Be Prepared to even take less . . .
We encourage our clients to contact our tour partner upon arrival to make last minute equipment check.....so we have time to acquire or add that equipment to the trip gear.

Average ratings from 15 tour feedbacks (see details below) (5) Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Satisfactory (1) Not Satisfactory Accommodations: Meals: Host/Guide: Name Date arlette westdorp 4/30/2017 anna apgar 5/28/2014 valentina vella 9/10/2013 zdenek kucera 9/4/2013 lynn dwyer 2/20/2012 jean e male 10/6/2011 donna duncan 1/13/2011 nancy garnich 11/15/2010 susan povall 11/15/2010 ronald luginbuhl 3/1/2010 janice jordan 11/8/2009 dianne grummett 9/7/2009 jo johnson 7/19/2009 mark grinter 3/15/2007 daniel whelligan 3/14/2007

Accommodations
This is a pack trip where all nights are spent camping.

Description
Camping is basic and as close to nature as you can get. Riders sleep directly on the ground under a rain/ fly shelter. There are no washrooms, just pure outdoors (dig a hole in the ground style). You can bathe in the rivers should you wish to freshen up. There is no electricity or WIFI.




Meals
All meals are included.

From "gourmet meals" to trail snacks - all food groups are represented. Meats, vegetables, pasta, dairy, fruits, grains, snacks, tea, coffee, honey, butter, and great sandwiches! We eat breakfast and dinner at the camp and lunches area eaten on the trail.

We ask that you do not bring any alcohol since you are riding on private reservation land.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions given prior notice.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		Western
Horses:		Quarter Horses and Mixed
Pace:		6-8 hours in the saddle pace varies accordingly to skill level and terrain
Level:		(2 to 5 out of 5)    All Levels
Age:		Min 7
Weight:		Max 220 lbs
Riders:		Min 1	Max 4

Guide
Your guide is of Chihe´ne (Warm Springs Apache) ancestry  with extensive guiding experience in horseback and backpacking  expeditions, throughout the American Rocky Mountains including Canada, Mexico´s Sierra Madre and Alaskan Brooks Range.

Powwow & Horseback Riding trip
Any tour can be combined with another Native American cultural experience: the visit to a local regional powwow or Native American gathering and ceremony. We offer to visit a powwow in the Southwest with you, which will make this a very unique experience for you, and do a wilderness tour preferably after that powwow. Please, inquire for more information.

Bringing your own tack and horse
We invite you to bring your own tack and horse(s).

Passports

Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in the chart ; validity varies - for most countries the passport must be valid for at least six months from the date on which the holder enters the USA. If not, the holder will be admitted until the expiration date on the passport; check with the embassy (see Contact Addresses).

Passport Note

(a) For nationals included in the Visa Waiver Program (see below), passports must be valid for at least 90 days from date of entry.

(b) All travellers entering the USA under the Visa Waiver Program require individual machine-readable passports. Children included on a parent's passport also now require their own machine-readable passport. Travellers not in possession of machine-readable passports will require a valid USA entry visa.

(c) Passports issued on or after 26 October 2005 will need to have a biometric identifier in order for the holder to travel visa free under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Machine-readable passports issued between 26 October 2005 and 25 October 2006 require a digital photograph printed on the data page or an integrated chip with information from the data page. Machine-readable passports issued on or after 26 October 2006 will require an integrated chip with information from the data page (e-passport).



The US has announced new measures that require all travellers to provide details online 72 hours prior to travel.

ESTA: The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) came into force on 12 January 2009. It is a fully automated, electronic system for screening passengers before they begin travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. ESTA applications must be submitted at least 72 hours before travel to the USA. Some websites may charge you for the service but you can apply online for free at www.dhs.gov. The granting of an ESTA does not guarantee entry to the USA.

 

New Requirements for Travellers: As of 23 January 2007 all persons, including US citizens, travelling by air between the USA and Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda are required to present a valid passport, or other approved document, when entering or re-entering the USA. Similar requirements for those travelling by land or sea will be introduced on 1 June 2009.

For further details about the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, visit the website of the US Department of State: (website: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html).

Visas

Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days except:

1. nationals of Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania and Slovak Republic, who do require a visa.

Visa Note

(a) Landed Immigrants of Canada and British residents of Bermuda who are citizens of, and have valid passports from, Commonwealth countries or Ireland are not eligible to enter the USA without a visa. (b) All passengers using US airports for transit purposes are required to obtain a transit visa. This does not affect qualified travellers travelling visa free under the Visa Waiver Program. (d) To qualify for visa-free travel under the Visa Waiver Program, nationals must travel on a valid passport, for holiday, transit or business purposes only and for a stay not exceeding 90 days. (e) Passengers must have the full address and ZIP code of where they are staying in the USA to be able to fully complete the I-94W form. Note: Airlines are also required to collect passenger details, including the address of their first night's accommodation in the USA, before they board the aircraft. (f) 2. Holders of UK passports with the endorsement British Subject, British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Protected Person, British Overseas Citizen or British National (Overseas) Citizen do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. A passport which states holder has right of abode or indefinite leave to remain in the UK does not qualify for visa free travel. (g) A visa does not expire with the expiry of the holder’s passport. An unexpired, endorsed visa in an expired passport may be presented for entry into the USA, as long as the visa itself has not been cancelled, is undamaged, is less than 10 years old and is presented with a valid non-expired passport, provided that both passports are for the same nationality. (h) Nationals of countries not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).

Types of Visa and Cost

Tourist, Business, Transit and Student: US$131.

Validity

Visas may be used for travel to the USA until the date it expires. Some visas are valid for multiple entries. The length of stay in the USA is determined by US immigration officials at the time of entry but is generally six months; there is, however, no set time.

Applications to:

Embassy or consulate (see Contact Addresses).

Working Days Required

Usually five after interview. Some cases may take up to 12 weeks – check with embassy/consulate.

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	N/A
Other EU	Yes
Visa Required?
British	No/2
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	N/A
Other EU	1
Return Ticket Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	No
USA	N/A
Other EU	Yes