Event Description

THE PLACE : A four-day/three-night backpack in the Gila Wilderness. The Gila is home to the only wild population of the critically endangered Mexican gray wolf, the lobo. Exact trip details will be determined by the most recent information on the location of wild Mexican wolf packs. One of the trip’s objectives will be to hike and camp in an area where a rare wolf sighting may be possible or the sound of their howls may be heard. The other objective will be simply to enjoy the astounding beauty and solitude of the Gila Wilderness. Trips to the Gila Wilderness are often a rich wildlife viewing experience. Sightings of black bears are common. Cougars are alsopresent, though seldom seen. Deer and elk are abundant, as well as many species of smaller mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Silence and some stealth as you walk the Gila’s trails will greatly enhance your odds of wildlife sightings.

THE PRO JECT : We’re looking for evidence of wild Mexican lobos. But this will require time in the backcountry. We call it the Gila Wilderness Backpack.

This trip is being led by the man who originally led the Fish and Wildlife Service’s reintroduction of Mexican wolves in 1997—Dave Parsons. No one knows wolves better, and no one has done more to help keep wolves in the wild. For anyone seeking to better understand and discover wolves in the wild, this is a unique opportunity.

Meals: NMWA’s wilderness chef, Craig Chapman, will prepare one evening meal for all participants.

Note: You must have your own backpacking gear and be self-sufficient as far as your food, shelter, and water purification needs go, except for one supper. We will hike and camp near water, so you will need to carry only a small supply of water—two liters.

Requirements: Fitness/Ex perience Level

You must be able to carry a backpack weighing 30−45 pounds over moderate to difficult terrain where elevation changes are common. Gila’s canyons can be up to 1,000 feet deep. Twenty miles total backpacking. Another twenty on exploration day hikes. A moderate or greater level of fitness and backpacking experience is required.

Maximum participants: 8

Project/Backpack leader: Dave Parsons. Lucky us!

Distance: 20 miles backpacking and another 20 on day hikes, exploration. Elevation changes can be dramatic.

This event is sold out. Please consult our Events calendar for other service opportunities.