Met some buddies (traditional packers) for a number of days circumnavigating the Gila's Woodland Pk and Cliff Dwellings National Monument. We got a late start coming from all corners of the state and endured some sleet day #1. The traditional packers had a bit of trouble packing the next day, so we set out late and skirting around the cliff dwellings, decided on West Fk crossings. 
Cliff dwelling (not the "official" one at the entrance) and granary
Nice scenery though:
Tough to be prepared for endless wet-foot crossings. Some had cold feet problems and the relativiely swift current grew tiresome by the end of the day. We took a half day at Hell's Hole (which was actually a pretty nice campsite) before attempting the switchbacks the next morning before the sun hit the trail. Our overland crossover went through Woodland Park, which had a little water available but better to save it for the wildlife. 
. Had a lot of frogs croaking and some mile deer sightings, though they were too fast for cameras. We spent one last night, then decided on a big mileage day to get out due to feet and an impending large shower. Drinks and buffalo burgers at the Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House near Silver City. .Take the high speed golf cart course known as NM 15, and veer off at the Pinos Altos historic district. Did not get pic of inside so I'm going to have to return (oh, darn). Lessons learned. Sturdy footwear is essential for backpacking in the river bottoms when it's high. It's tough attempting the crossings during spring runoff and there is now snow forecast for the area, …so I may wait until late April or early May next time
