Apr 07, 2016 — The Middle Fork of the Gila River (Trail #157) is an extended route through the heart of The Gila, but this hike only follows it until the junction with the Little Bear Canyon Trail (Trail #729), which forms a nice loop. I started from the Middle Fork Trailhead and started north. The trail quickly enters the watercourse of the Middle Fork of the Gila River. The surrounding cliffs begin to rise and form gorgeous pinnacles and tall walls, and the river banks have confierous trees that make the hike really cozy. I had to cross the river many times along the way. After a few miles along the river where I was enjoying the tall cliffs immensely, I was a bit upset to learn I would be leaving the canyon in order to start the second half of the loop, the Little Bear Canyon Trail. One day I'll be back to continue north through the gorgeous watercourse.
I started south through Little Bear Canyon, which begins with some very cool narrows and a small, flowing stream. Moss caked the deep slot's walls and the narrow portion lasted longer than I thought it would. The trail left the narrows and continued south through the hills, making its way to the TJ Corral Trailhead. I followed the road back to the Middle Fork Trailhead to complete the loop.
I recommend also checking out the nearby Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument for some cool history.
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