CDT Day 14: Gila River Paradise

In an already typically water-scarce state facing drought this year, I knew I had to relish my few days on the Gila River. I embraced the 2-mile-per-hour pace that was typical throughout the second half of the river corridor. After having hiked the Te Araroa in New Zealand which consists of markers and not actual trail in river corridors, I felt that the route through here was very intuitive and easy going. I was in awe that the route could remain so clear despite clues of massive flows that had previously passed through there, leaving logs atop boulders and huge root balls pinned to trees. 

To be honest, I’m not sure why anyone would choose to rush through here or stress about maintaining a high mile count. There is no 20 mile water carry to tick off, and the swimming hole possibilities are endless. I did end up holding off to have my proper swimming hole stop until I saw one that felt absolutely meant to be. I turned a bend in the river, and there it was. The cascading, aqua blue pools stopped me dead in my tracks. Then I ran hurriedly towards the rocks to drop my pack and jump in– it was a hot day in the canyon!

Jagged peaks towered in the background as I delighted in this barely populated stretch of trail. The water was cool and fresh, and the flat riverside rocks were ready to revel in. These are the moments that replenish your spirit on the trail.

Afterwards I cheerfully continued to a junction further down where both a backpacker and horse camp existed. I could see some backpackers set up in the distance, and wanting my privacy I chose the horse camp. It was a relaxing evening on the river, where I washed and hung my clothes and even created my own shoe insert sandals 🙂 What a fulfilling day. 

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