Planting native and beneficial plants in the Gila Wilderness—a region in southwestern New Mexico known for its rugged terrain, rich biodiversity, and arid to semi-arid climate—requires a thoughtful, ecologically grounded approach. This environment is characterized by variable elevations, dry summers, and monsoon rains, making it ideal for drought-tolerant native plants that can also provide food or medicinal value. To plant effectively here, one must prioritize species that are not only resilient but also beneficial to local ecosystems, with minimal ecological disruption. Many are surprised they can grow real world foods and not have to purchase sugar cane, but actually grow it! The key is to mimic natural patterns, respect native biodiversity, and incorporate useful species such as aloe or sugarcane only where appropriate and sustainable.

Selecting Native Plants

Begin by selecting plants that are either native to the Gila Wilderness or highly adapted to its conditions. Native plants such as prickly pear cactus (Opuntia spp.), agave (Agave parryi or Agave americana), wild onions (Allium spp.), mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa), and yucca are all excellent choices. These species have evolved to thrive in the high-desert conditions of the Gila region and can provide both food and habitat for wildlife. For example, prickly pear offers edible pads and fruits, agave can be used for syrup or fiber, and mesquite pods are a traditional source of flour. Aloe vera, though not native, can survive in similar conditions and offers substantial medicinal value. However, it should be planted carefully, in a contained or managed space, so it does not displace native flora.

Location, Just As Important As Species

Site selection and preparation are crucial for success. Choose a location that matches the sunlight and drainage preferences of your selected species. In the Gila region, many beneficial plants prefer full sun and well-drained soils. Avoid heavy disturbance of the soil; instead, consider sheet mulching or simply clearing invasive weeds while preserving native groundcover. Adding a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or leaf litter, will help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and slowly enrich the soil. If planting near slopes or arroyos, use natural contours to direct water toward the roots of your plants. Swales or rock-lined basins can be built to capture and slow rainwater during monsoon season.

 

Plant in clusters or guilds that mimic natural ecosystems. For example, a xeric guild might include aloe vera as a medicinal ground-level plant, prickly pear as a mid-height food plant, and mesquite to provide partial canopy, nitrogen fixation, and mulch. Grouping plants with similar water and soil needs reduces competition and maintenance. During the first year, deep watering every couple of weeks will help establish roots. Afterward, most native species can survive on rainfall alone.

Plant For The Long Term

To maintain the planting area, use natural methods like chop-and-drop pruning, minimal irrigation, and selective harvesting. Leave portions of each plant for wildlife, and never introduce invasive species. Ultimately, planting in the Gila Wilderness should focus on working with nature, not against it—creating a resilient, low-impact system that provides both sustenance and ecological value.

The American Southwest is a hunter’s paradise, offering a dramatic blend of rugged mountains, high desert plateaus, dense pine forests, and red rock canyons—all teeming with a diverse range of big game and specialty hunting opportunities. New Mexico and Arizona, in particular, stand out as premier destinations for those seeking once-in-a-lifetime hunts and unique wildlife encounters. Both states are renowned for their well-managed wildlife populations and draw-based tag systems that prioritize conservation and quality hunting experiences. In New Mexico, one of the crown jewels of the hunting world is the Rocky Mountain elk hunt. With bulls that often exceed 350 inches, New Mexico is home to some of the biggest elk in North America, especially in units like the Gila National Forest. Hunters flock to the state each year in hopes of drawing a coveted tag, knowing that a successful hunt here often results in massive antlers and unforgettable memories. Beyond elk, New Mexico also offers excellent mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and even oryx and Barbary sheep hunts, thanks to introduced species thriving on White Sands Missile Range and other arid military-managed lands. These hunts are not only challenging due to the terrain and stealth required but are also incredibly unique in terms of the animals pursued.

Popular AZ Species

Arizona, on the other hand, has built a name for itself with its exceptional trophy-quality species and specialty hunts. The state is perhaps best known for its world-class Coues deer and mule deer, with many hunters traveling from across the country to take on the challenge of spotting and stalking these elusive animals in the steep, cactus-studded terrain of southern Arizona. The Coues deer, often referred to as the “gray ghost,” is especially prized for its elusive nature and the sharp eyes required to spot it. In the northern part of the state, elk reign supreme, with units around Flagstaff and the Mogollon Rim producing record-class bulls that rival even New Mexico’s. What adds to Arizona’s allure is the opportunity for bighorn sheep hunts—both desert and Rocky Mountain subspecies—which are among the most difficult tags to draw but also among the most sought-after in North America.

Specialty Species

One specialty hunt that deserves particular attention to AZ turkey season. The state offers hunts for three different subspecies—Merriam’s, Gould’s, and the Rio Grande—making it a dream destination for the dedicated turkey hunter looking to complete a Grand Slam. The most unique of the trio is the Gould’s turkey, found primarily in the sky islands of southeastern Arizona near the Mexican border. These birds are larger and more striking in appearance than the more common Merriam’s, and the hunt itself takes place in some of the most scenic and remote mountain ranges in the state. Spring turkey hunting in Arizona combines breathtaking scenery, cool mountain air, and the electrifying sound of a gobbler breaking the morning silence, providing both a thrilling challenge and a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re chasing high-desert pronghorns, glassing ridgelines for elk, or calling in a strutting tom beneath the pines, the Southwest offers an unmatched variety of hunts for those drawn to wide open spaces, wild terrain, and the timeless pursuit of big game.

Improving hiking ability, particularly for high-altitude hikes, requires a focus on nutrition that enhances endurance, supports muscle recovery, and keeps energy levels steady over long, strenuous treks. High-altitude hikes present unique challenges, including lower oxygen levels, colder temperatures, and increased energy demands. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in adapting to these conditions and ensuring that hikers maintain peak performance throughout the hike. Several diet approaches, such as the Trim Healthy Mama diet and other popular nutrition plans, can help improve hiking performance by providing the necessary fuel and nutrients.

Trim Healthy Mama- THM

The Trim Healthy Mama (THM) diet is a popular plan designed to balance macronutrients in a way that promotes stable blood sugar levels and supports weight loss without sacrificing energy. For hikers, this can be a particularly beneficial diet because it encourages a combination of healthy fats, lean proteins, and carbohydrates in the right balance to sustain energy throughout the day. The THM diet divides food into two main categories: “S” (satisfying) meals that focus on healthy fats and proteins, and “E” (energizing) meals that focus on carbs. This balanced approach helps hikers avoid the sugar crashes that can occur from consuming high-carb foods, which can be detrimental on long hikes. The THM diet emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, healthy fats (avocados, nuts, and coconut oil), lean proteins (chicken, fish, and eggs), and complex carbohydrates (whole grains, beans, and fruits), all of which can support sustained energy and endurance while hiking.

In addition to the Trim Healthy Mama diet, there are several other popular diets that hikers often try to improve their hiking ability. One common approach is the Mediterranean diet, which is known for its emphasis on heart-healthy fats, lean proteins, and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. This diet includes olive oil, fish, whole grains, and plenty of fresh produce, making it rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients that help combat fatigue and muscle soreness. The Mediterranean diet is particularly beneficial for high-altitude hikes, as it supports cardiovascular health and helps reduce inflammation caused by physical exertion.

Back To Basics – Paleo

Another popular nutrition plan is the Paleo diet, which focuses on whole, unprocessed foods similar to what our ancient ancestors might have eaten. This diet includes lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, while excluding grains, legumes, and dairy. The Paleo diet provides high-quality protein and healthy fats, which are essential for muscle repair and sustained energy during long hikes. The emphasis on whole foods and healthy fats helps hikers avoid the fatigue that can result from refined sugars or processed snacks. Additionally, the Paleo diet is rich in micronutrients, such as potassium and magnesium, which can help prevent cramps and muscle fatigue during high-altitude hikes.

High Protein, Low Carb

For hikers who want to increase endurance and stamina, the High-Protein Low-Carb (HPLC) diet is another popular approach. This diet encourages the consumption of lean proteins and healthy fats while limiting carbohydrate intake. At high altitudes, the body requires more energy, and this diet helps provide a steady source of fuel through protein and fat rather than quick-burning carbohydrates. The low-carb nature of this diet encourages the body to rely on fat stores for energy, which can be particularly helpful on long, strenuous hikes where a steady source of fuel is needed over time.

Finally, the Ketogenic diet has gained popularity for its focus on high fat and very low carbohydrate intake. While the keto diet may not be for everyone, it has proven beneficial for some hikers, particularly those undertaking long hikes where fat stores are needed as a primary source of energy. The keto diet can help improve endurance by training the body to burn fat instead of carbohydrates, making it a potentially effective strategy for sustained energy during high-altitude hikes.

The best diets to improve hiking ability—especially for high-altitude hikes—are those that focus on sustained energy, muscle recovery, and reducing inflammation. The Trim Healthy Mama diet, along with other approaches like the Mediterranean, Paleo, High-Protein Low-Carb, and Ketogenic diets, all offer unique benefits for hikers. A well-balanced diet that includes healthy fats, lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and micronutrients can improve endurance, boost performance, and help hikers better cope with the physical demands of high-altitude hikes. Choosing a diet that supports your body’s nutritional needs will make a significant difference in your ability to conquer challenging trails with ease and efficiency.

The Gila River is a massive 649-mile-long river that is also a part of the Colorado River. It flows through Arizona and New Mexico. Along this river, you will find some outstanding views of the area that it flows through. Therefore, it is very popular among many locals and tourists who love to go floating in the Gila River.

The Beauty of the Gila River

As a tributary of the Colorado River and then having two other tributaries that lead south of the border, into Mexico, this river offers a lot of amazing views and experiences. There is only one major dam, the Coolidge Dam, but there are several smaller diversion dams. It also links to the Salt River, where you can find the Theodore Roosevelt Dam. Because of its extensive length and the fact that it is through some of the United States most beautiful areas, the river is used as a recreational area for many outdoor lovers.

Things to Do on the Gila

This river is navigable during the spring thaw and remains that way through the summer and autumn storms. While floating down it, you will be able to float through lazy canyons and also find some whitewater areas. It is located in the desert, so you will have a chance of an erratic flow area or flash flooding in some areas. You should check the river to make sure that it is usable for what you want to enjoy before you venture out. If it is rapids that you are seeking, you may also want to visit the Salt River tributary where there are some Class IV rapids. If you simply want to relax and watch the world as you float down the Gila, you will enjoy taking along specific gear for it. The raft, canoe, or inflatable kayak are all a given for white watering, but you may also want to take along smaller floats for the lazier parts of the river. When white watering, you will need helmets and other things to ensure that you are safe.

Floating in Sty

People show up at the river with all types of floats for their family to enjoy. They use large rafts so that everyone can relax together, and they use smaller rafts for separate adventures. They also take along supplies that they will need for the day. This includes fresh water to drink and perhaps other types of beverages which they store in a floating cooler with speakers. They take sunblock and insect repellent, fresh clothes to change into after their float downstream. They take maps of the river so that they can ensure they do not end up in dangerous areas, snacks to eat while they are drifting along, and cameras to capture memories of their day out on the river. Most people who choose to take a larger raft or small boat drifting down the river will carry paddles to ensure they are going to stay away from dangerous rocks and repair kits to ensure that if they hit a rock, they are not stranded. All this goes to prove that on the Gila River, anything is possible.

There is something special about taking a walk in the great outdoors and enjoying all that a state park or a national park has to offer. It is here that you will be able to see untouched trees, abundant wildlife, and scenery that is always beautiful. However, part of planning a trip to one of the many national and state parks should include items that will keep pests at bay. This is why we suggest that you educate yourself on proper pest prevention planning for time outdoors.

The Problem with Pests

Everyone knows that insects, such as mosquitoes, can carry diseases. This complicates everything during hikes since you must share a space with the insects who want to feed off you and all the wild animals that may be hiding out in the wilderness. State and National Parks are often huge areas of untouched land. This means that there is an abundance of dead leaves, moist areas, and still water. To ensure that they remain “untouched” very little can be done to slow pests from using it as a breeding ground. Therefore, it is up to the people who want to enjoy nature to take care of their own pest control. For many people, this is a problem that is easily dealt with, but some people have to take further steps to ensure they walk out of the wilderness without a mosquito borne illness.

Protecting Yourself

Mosquitoes are drawn to you. They know that you have blood in your body and they enjoy eating as much as everyone else. Most people who enjoy hiking on the trails recommend that you carry with a spray can of insect repellent, especially if you are going into an area that has experienced a fair amount of rainfall. It depends on your preferences though, since a lot of people do not want to wear DEET insect spray. Instead, they may opt for insect repelling clothing and natural pest control scents such as citronella. If you want, you can carry both types and then only use the one that is required at that time to keep bugs away. As someone who wants to camp in the great outdoors, in some of the remotest locations, you may also want to take along a backpack fogger. It is a different kind of backpack but can help you clear your area of insects without causing a major change within the environment. There are many people who love nature but wouldn’t leave home without it since it can keep mosquitoes away from your tent for several hours.

Mingle with Nature

When out in the wilderness, you face a lot of challenges. It is part of what draws us to go. The other part is because it is natural, and animals of all types call it home. When you walk into the forest, you walk into their world. This does unfortunately also include insects will be a part of your experience. Taking little steps to ensure that you do not get “bugged” too badly will help make sure that your trip out will be enjoyable.