Jordan Hot Springs Backpack, Gila Wilderness

Overnight backpack in the beautiful Gila Wilderness. The destination is the Jordan Hot Springs, one of the popular areas in the Gila. We’ll start at TJ Corral, the first 2.5 miles will be uphill exposed to the sun and no access to water. Pack enough water to last the first 4 miles. We’ll descend to Little Bear Canyon. After a mile or so we’ll reach Little Bear campground the start of the water crossings. There are about 15 water crossing along the Middle Fork before we reach Jordan Hot Springs. Be sure to waterproof your backpack in case you fall into the water. Using a trash bag to line your backpack or packing sleeping bag and other delicate items in a waterproof bag to keep items dry. After Jordan Hot Spring we’ll cross the water once more to reach our campsite. Should the campsite be overcrowded we may have to back track to one of the campsites along the trail. Once we set up camp we’ll have the opportunity to soak in the warm springs. Do not forget to pack a towel. While soaking keep head and nose out of the hot springs water. A warm water amoeba can enter the brain through the nasal passages and cause a rare type of meningitis. Stage 2 fire restrictions are in place, no campfires allowed. As of now Jetboil stoves are ok to use. Sunday morning folks may get a soak in before we pack up and retrace our steps back to TJ Corral.

I plan to drive up on Friday PM and car camp at one of the campsites near TJ Corral, Upper or Lower Scorpion campsites. All are welcome to join me otherwise I’ll meet the group at TJ Corral at 8:45am and start hiking at 9 am.

Trip Rating: Moderate, due to miles and multiple water crossings
NOT a beginners Backpack
Length: 14 mile roundtrip in/out
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1420 feet
Fees: None
Dogs allowed, must be on leash at all times

Any question, please text me at (505) 385-0553 NOTE: I will NOT have phone service Friday evening or Saturday morning.

https://www.weatherforyou.com/weather/gila+cliff+dwellings+national+monument-new+mexico-extended

Backpacking Checklist: https://www.rei.com/dam/backpacking_checklist_printable.pdf

Participants should be in good physical condition to attend this outing. Folks with an underlying medical condition should avoid moderate and strenuous outings. Participants who RSVP yes also agree to the Release of Liability statement located under the "What we're about" heading.

For safety reasons we hike together and support each-other as a group/team, with the leader in control. We stop, rest, eat, etc. together. No one will be allowed to hike ahead at any time. If you are unwilling to comply with this please do not sign up. Thank-you