12 hours exploring Chiricahua National Monument

Rock formation under a bright blue sky and setting sun.

Tucked away in southeastern Arizona, Chiricahua National Monument is a hidden gem of towering rock spires, scenic trails, and rich history. This one-day itinerary takes you through stunning hoodoo formations, expansive vistas, and diverse wildlife habitats.

Duration
1 day
Perfect for
Hikers, geology enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers.
Highlights
Hoodoo formations, scenic overlooks, and historic sites.
Morning

Learn about park history and geology

Faraway ranch under a clear blue sky; informational sign in foreground.

Faraway Ranch

The early 20th-century homestead of Swedish immigrants Neil and Emma Erickson is near the park entrance. Explore the ranch and surrounding grounds and learn how this family helped establish Chiricahua as a national monument.

Two coatis climbing a tree branch in a forest setting.

Orient and learn

Stop at the Chiricahua National Monument Visitor Center to get information on weather and trail conditions. Learn the story of the Chiricahua Apache, who lived in this area long before Europeans set foot on the continent. Discover the park’s volcanic origins and the human history of the park.

Midday

Journey through Chiricahua

Bonita creek flowing over rocks in the forest with lush trees and sunlight.

Bonita Canyon Drive

Take this scenic drive up to Echo Canyon, stopping at overlooks along the way for breathtaking views of the hoodoos and valleys below.

Hikers ascending a rocky trail surrounded by trees and tall rock formations.

Hike to the hoodoos

Embark on the Echo Canyon Loop Trail (3.4 miles), where you will wind through narrow rock passageways and towering spires as you immerse yourself in the park’s unique landscape. 

Evening

Hikes and dark skies

Sugarloaf mountain at sunset with hills and colorful sky.

Sunset

End your day with a short but rewarding climb up Sugarloaf Mountain (1.8 miles roundtrip). From the summit, watch the sunset over the surrounding valleys and spires, casting golden light on the rugged landscape.

Rock formations in a desert landscape, with mountains in the distance under a clear blue sky.
Massai Point
Windmill in a grassy landscape with mountains and a blue sky.
Acorn woodpecker on a tree trunk with a blurred green background.
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Desert trail with cacti and distant mountains under a clear sky.
Trail at Fort Bowie
Optional add-on

Fort Bowie

Extend your adventure with a historical side trip to Fort Bowie National Historic Site, a site central to the Apache Wars. The stories of Apache warriors, U.S. soldiers, and settlers come to life amid rugged Arizona landscapes in visitor center exhibits, historic fort sites, and a year-long spring.

Visit Smart

Plan ahead

Chiricahua National Monument is remote, with limited services. Fuel up in nearby towns like Willcox before heading into the park, and pack plenty of food and water for the day.

Watch the weather

Temperatures can vary greatly, with hot afternoons and chilly mornings. Dress in layers and check for monsoon storms during the summer months.

Gear up

Wear sturdy hiking boots, as trails can be rocky and uneven. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

Leave no trace

Chiricahua is sacred to the Chiricahua Apache people and home to fragile rock formations. Stay on designated trails, pack out trash, and respect the landscape to help preserve this geological wonder for future generations.

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