Inflatable Kayak trip down the Lower Gila Box

I would like to propose an spring 2026 outing to the Lower Gila Box in southeastern Arizona. Perhaps this destination will be more convenient than the Big Bend trip previously proposed, with an outfitter, Far Flung Expeditions, that comes well-recommended by a friend. The Gila is a free-flowing river that drains the northern Gila Mountains of New Mexico and the White Mountains of Arizona; Far Flung is the only outfitter on the Lower Box. There are good hiking options along the trip, generally cross-country exploring across the countryside. The trip will traverse the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area (see https://theazhikeaholics.com/visit-gila-box-riparian-national-conservation-area/). This will be an inflatable kayak trip, putting in at the Old Safford Bridge and taking out at the downstream end of the Conservation Area, spending a relaxed 5 days and 4 nights on the river. Meals will be fully catered. Watercraft and waterproof drybags for all of your personal items, tents, pads and camp chairs will be provided by the outfitter.

We will leave Los Alamos and environs on Sunday, March 29, driving to Silver City, NM, about an 6-hour drive. We will meet the outfitter and go onto the river the next day, Monday, and take out on Friday, April 4. After overnighting, we will drive back home April 5, in time for Easter the next day. We will carpool as much as possible, to minimize driving costs and parking needs.

In their trip writeup, at https://farflung.com/lower-gila-box/#1617305923891-f04a8bd4-85ed, Far Flung says:

“Miles below the mountain peaks of the Gila Wilderness, the character of the river changes dramatically. As it enters the Gila Box National Riparian Conservation area its banks are lined with cottonwoods, creosote and large barrel cactus. High canyon walls of sandstone, basalt and conglomerate rise up and then fall away as you weave your way through tight, tree-lined rapids and explore crystal clear side streams.” Their trip writeup includes a nice video of the trip.

The trip cost will be $1125 per person for the outfitter. The only other costs will be travel expenses and overnight lodging before and after the river. I will work on lodging as the trip comes together. I will be collecting $250 deposits to reserve a spot on the trip.

Bill