|
About Chiricahua National Monument
A "Wonderland of Rocks" is waiting for you to explore at Chiricahua National Monument. This forest of rock spires was eroded from layers of ash deposited by the Turkey Creek Volcano eruption 27 million years ago. The 8 mile paved scenic drive and 18 miles of day-use hiking trails provide opportunities to discover the beauty, natural sounds, and inhabitants of this 11,985 acre site. Visit the Faraway Ranch Historic District to discover more about the people who have called this area home: Chiricahua Apaches, Buffalo Soldiers, Erickson and Stafford families.
Trails range from short and paved to all day adventures. The trail guide provides detailed trail descriptions. The hikers' shuttle is a limited service that leaves the visitor center daily at 8:30 a.m. Protect yourself. Don't forget your hat, sunscreen, drinking water, and sturdy shoes.
The Chiricahua Mountains are one of the many "sky island" ranges in southern Arizona. They rise like islands from the surrounding grassland "sea". Plants and animals from four ecosystems; Rocky Mountains, Sierra Madre Mountains, Sonoran & Chihuahuan Deserts, meet here. Watch for black bear, mountain lions, Arizona white-tail deer, coati-mundis, snakes & lizards, and a variety of birds.
|
|
