Gila alternative

What temp range are you looking at? The Gila is in the Chihuahuan desert (NM, far west TX) and along with the Great Basin deserts (UT, NV parts of ID, CO and boundary areas like northern AZ ) are classified as cold, high deserts vs. warm, low deserts in lower AZ and southern CA. (Source: Desert Ecology, 1990 printing)

Of course fronts and the winter jet stream can push some cold south in Baja…

If willing to drive to UT, maybe look at the Phoenix AZ area, namely "the Superstitions". Still can get below freezing even there. Specially reavis ranch (official) and "reavis falls" (unofficial trail) for a taste of everything … desert, pines, riparian

Ed: sp

Its a ways from Colorado but Big Bend National Park or Big Bend Ranch State Park might be an option. I'll probably be out there myself after Christmas.

Dominguez Canyon might be an option if you don't want to drive to Utah.

I was hoping for something not below 20 ish as a low, 45 -50. I love Big Bend , been there a lot and been in Dominguez canyon a lot as well. Dominguez might be enjoyable for the kids but I was hoping for something further from home, but not 10 hours away, and with good water. I might check out some of the Arizona suggestions as well. Thanks , keep them coming