GET Day 29: West Fork Gila River

Daily Miles: 19.5, Total Miles: 407.2

I headed off on a bright and sunny morning through the ponderosa pine forest to the White River. This river soon flowed into the West Fork Gila River. I heard turkeys gobbling but never saw them.

The hike down the West Fork Gila River is one of those experiences and memories that motivates me to keep hiking. I recall the same thoughts when I hiked the Middle Fork on the CDT.

Beautiful and remote mountain stream between tall, majestic sheer cliff walls and rock pinnacles. Having to ford the river 50+ times was a small price to pay. Besides, the best pics are from the middle of the creek.

Found a nice campsite above the river and washed out my socks and shoes in the river. I watched a dark rain cloud send a few sprinkles down. Now the frogs are serenading each other.

Met four hikers on Gila River trips – now I’m surprised to see anyone on the trail.