Vista Point At Emory Pass ~ Gila National Forest

National Forest scenic overlooks are not always prime time destinations, but they are still worth checking out. These spots do not always readily appear on a map, unless the full extent of the zoom function is used, so they are rarely included in the travel plans. More or less, the National Forest scenic overlooks usually appear as an added surprise when passing through a deep wilderness area. Stopping to take in the panoramic views is a good way to become familiar with the terrain, while an urge to do a little camping and fishing just might occur too!

The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is the most popular destination in the Gila National Forest and the majority of visitors do this tour as a day trip destination. It is a long way between cities in southern New Mexico and the Gila National Forest certainly is way out in the middle of nowhere. Doing a day trip to the cliff dwellings can present a few challenges concerning finding a restroom facility and oddly enough, this is how many people discover the relatively unknown National Forest scenic overlooks! Vista Point At EmoryPass is no exception. After parking at this high elevation overlook early in the morning, I noticed a steady stream of cars heading straight for the restroom facility, which was amusing to see. Everybody seemed to be heading straight for the restroom instead of the scenic overlook, which says a lot about the long driving distances in these parts.

The views literally stretch all the way out to the horizon at Vista Point and the mountains look like rolling waves as far as the eyes can see. For those who carry a wide angle lens this is a good place to spend some extra time, especially on a morning with clear blue skies. On a hazy day, the views will not be as clear, but the rolling mountains will still be mesmerizing to view. Vista Point At Emory Pass may be just another relatively unknown National Forest scenic overlook, but all it takes is one look to agree with the idea of setting the strict travel agenda aside for the rest of the trip!