Living in Caves

As you travel around our beautiful country, do you ever wonder "how did people live back then"? Specifically, when viewing the awe-inspiring beauty of the jagged cliffs found in the Gila (pronounced hee-lah) National Forest, there doesn't seem to be a large amount of open space upon which to build homes. So what did the Puebloans of the Mogollon Area do?

They built their homes IN the cliffs. I'm not talking little caves or alcoves in the mountainside. I'm talking about CLIFFS. At the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument outside of Silver City, NM, we made the .5 mile trek up 180 ft from the canyon floor to view these ancient homes. As we were climbing, I couldn't help but think the people of the Upper Gila River had to have been agile as heck! I won't lie, there were a couple of times hiking up the trail that we stopped to "take in the view" (aka catch our breath)! ;0)

Once we reached the top of the trail, we ventured through five caves that have been preserved. The first three were interesting as you could see initial and basic framework and construct; the wooden beams seen in the pics are said to be original - made from juniper trees.

But it was the remaining two caves that truly allowed a personal peek into how the homes were constructed, complete with room segregation and what some believe is a ritual room (below).

Here's a little video montage of the caves - note the picture with Jason. You can't see his face well, but you can get an idea of the size of the interior rooms!

Overall, it was an amazing experience! To think they created these homes with minimal tools INSIDE a cliff. Oh the resourcefulness of mankind!

But wait, did I mention how we had to exit the caves? Moreover, have I shared how Jason and I are both opposed to heights?? Okay, well check out the exit option below...

It was supposedly secured to the cliff wall - which eased my mind somewhat. Until Jason decided to verify that it was secure - and it WASN'T on the right side!! Yikes!

Regardless, if you're ever in Southwestern New Mexico and want to take in some breathtaking views, hike a steep trail, and explore cave homes - the Gila Cliff Dwellings are the place to be!