Journey Down the Gila is the first full length feature film produced that visually captures the beauty of the Gila River through the 37-mile river run through the Gila Wilderness. The documentary, directed by Albuqurque film maker, David Garcia, tells the story of three local, New Mexico teens, who died in service to the wild places they loved, their mothers’ trip down the river they sought to protect, and the struggle to keep the Gila flowing free.  Four years and multiple river trips in the making, Journey Down the Gila is a lush cinematic river-level journey down one of America’s great natural treasures. 

This 90-minute documentary is a love letter to the Gila and a rallying call to protect it.

“My desire is that the river our children held dear will be protected. I want people to see the beauty of the Gila Wilderness through our eyes—and most importantly, through the eyes of our three children.

Our children can no longer speak for themselves. It is now our duty to carry on their legacy and share their vision with the world.

This film is a very effective way of sharing that message.”
— Jennifer Mahl

After the Film

Patrice Mutchnick, Co-Producer & Founder of Heart of the Gila

Luke Koenig, Gila Grassroots Organizer for New Mexico Wild

They will share stories from the making of the film and give updates on the M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act, a bill to protect nearly 450 miles of the Gila and San Francisco rivers.

Watch the Trailer!

Why It Matters

The Gila River is the last wild river in New Mexico. It flows freely without dams and supports wildlife, culture, and recreation. But it faces growing threats from development and climate change.

Protecting the Gila means honoring those we’ve lost, preserving its natural flow, and ensuring that future generations can experience its beauty and power.