Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is located in the Gila Wilderness within the Gila National Forest. Within a few miles of the cliff dwellings, elevations range from around 5,700 to 7,300 feet above sea level. In the immediate vicinity of the cliff dwellings, elevations range from 5,700 to about 6,000 feet. The terrain is rugged, with steep-sided canyons cut by shallow rivers and forested with ponderosa pine, Gambel oak, Douglas fir, New Mexico juniper, pinyon pine, and alligator juniper (among other plants).

The climate is dry, with July and August as the rainy months. During the rainy months there is a possibility of short but intense rain each day. Monthly rainfall can vary from almost three inches in August to one-third of an inch in May, the driest month. Precipitation in winter ranges from about half an inch per month to an inch and a half.

During the summer, daytime highs average in the 90s F, while nighttime lows can reach into the 50s F. During the winter, daytime highs can be in the 50s F, while nighttime lows can reach into the teens.

The most common large mammals encountered are mule deer and elk. Black bear and mountain lion are in the area but are seldom seen. Coyotes can sometimes be heard at night. Because the Gila National Forest plays a role in the reintroduction of the Mexican gray wolf, wolves may be in the area, but it is rare to encounter them. The most common birds in the vicinity of the monument are turkey vultures, ravens, hawks, hummingbirds, and various songbirds.

The outstanding biodiversity of the Gila National Forest and Wilderness provides for a remarkably varied bird fauna. Over 100 bird species are common to the area, and you might get lucky and experience a rare sighting. New Mexico is home to many seasonal and year-round birds, as well as many migratory birds.

Birders come to this region in the hopes of checking the Montezuma quail or the Zone-tailed hawk off their life list. During the summer, you may very likely be buzzed by a Rufous or Broad-tailed hummingbird.

Day Hikes near the Gila Visitor Center brochure describes several hikes from the Visitor Center.

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.