Test your mettle against raw nature in the Gila National Forest

Taking place over four days and up to five stages, the Tour of the Gila is a premiere event for serious cyclists looking to gain experience on the professional circuit. Biking up to 340 miles through the diverse landscape of the Gila Wilderness is a unique opportunity for cyclists to experience the awe-inspiring landscape and warm community in Grant County.

Meet Ethan Hemphill

Ethan Hemphill is a two-time New Mexico NICA cycling state champion from Silver City. Ethan transitioned from mountain bike racing to road racing when he first tackled the Tour of the Gila in 2023. He and his father, Jay, have both competed in the Tour of the Gila bike race. Ethan is currently in his first year at Fort Lewis College, where he competes on the cycling team. Jay is a working photographer that has created his own photobook and contributes to publications such as New Mexico Magazine.

A person wearing a white cycling helmet and jersey is looking to the side. The helmet features a logo resembling the Zia symbol. The background is blurred greenery.

Explore the Gila National Forest

The Gila National Forest covers 2.7 million acres of land in southwestern New Mexico and is the sixth-largest National Forest in the continental U.S. There are three designated wilderness areas within the forest, one of which is the Gila Wilderness, which was designated as United States' first wilderness area in 1924. Although there are no roads in the wilderness area and the only travel permitted is by foot or horseback, the forest itself has countless opportunities for camping, hiking, biking, and more!

Gila National Forest

A dramatic landscape featuring a vast desert with sparse vegetation under a cloudy sky. Sunbeams pierce through the clouds, casting light over the terrain. Mountains are visible in the distant background.

Visit Silver City

Silver City is a picturesque town located in the southwestern corner of New Mexico, just outside of the Gila National Forest. Initially founded after the discovery of silver ore, Silver City is now a haven for artists and outdoor adventurers alike! Featuring various galleries and studios, a historic downtown, and quick access to forest recreation, Silver City is the perfect quaint getaway!

Silver City

A view of a street in Silver City, New Mexico, lined with trees on both sides. A sign arches over the road reading "Downtown Silver City." In the distance, hills and several low-rise buildings are visible under a clear blue sky.

Two-Wheeling Across New Mexico

Whether you enjoy long endurance rides out on the road, flying through the trees on a mountainside, or a relaxing cruise around town, there are endless opportunities for two-wheeled adventure across the Land of Enchantment. We've got the inside track on great riding options around the state.

Biking in NM

Four people on bikes ride down a desert path with green shrubbery scattered around. Mountains stand far off on the horizon.

More Outdoor Adventure

If road and mountain biking aren't quite your speed, there are still adventures to be had in the great outdoors of New Mexico. Experience downhill thrills at one of 8 ski resorts, raft and kayak one of our rios, climb the cragged cliffs, or hike the mountains and canyons throughout the state! No matter what you enjoy, New Mexico is home for the adventurous traveler!

Outdoor Adventure

Three people walk along a grassy riverbank with rocks and trees nearby. In the background, there is a small, forested hill under a clear blue sky.

Other National Parks and Monuments

New Mexico is home to 5 national forests, 15 national parks and monuments, and 26 wilderness areas. No matter what part of the state you are in, you won't be far from one of these miraculous areas where you can experience the beauty of the Land of Enchantment.

National Parks

Visitors walking on a paved path inside Carlsbad Caverns National Park, approaching the entrance to the cave.

Tour of the Gila: A Test of Endurance in the Wild