Chiricahua National Monument
National Monument · Arizona

Chiricahua National Monument

Photo: Pretzelpaws · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Chiricahua protects a mountain range full of rhyolite pinnacles and balanced rocks, left by a huge volcanic eruption millions of years ago. The 8-mile Bonita Canyon Drive climbs to Massai Point, and trails like Echo Canyon and the Heart of Rocks loop wind through the rock spires. Chiricahua Apache people lived in these mountains, and Faraway Ranch shows later homestead life; gas up in Willcox, as there are no services inside.

Good to know

Tickets
Free to visit; no entrance fee. The Bonita Canyon Campground charges a nightly fee and takes reservations on Recreation.gov.
Time needed
1 full day to drive to Massai Point and hike a loop through the rocks.
Best time
March to May and September to November. Summer brings heat and afternoon storms.
Getting there
Willcox is about 45 minutes away. Tucson International Airport is about 2 hours away by car.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Willcox, Arizona
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Chiricahua National Monument questions

What is the best hike in Chiricahua National Monument?

The Echo Canyon Loop is a favorite short hike. For a longer day, the Big Balanced Rock and Heart of Rocks loop is the classic choice.

Is there a hiker shuttle at Chiricahua?

A free hiker shuttle runs on set days in the cooler months, taking hikers up to the trailheads so they can walk back down. Check nps.gov before you go for this season's schedule.

Can you camp at Chiricahua?

Yes, Bonita Canyon Campground has sites for tents and small RVs. Reserve on Recreation.gov, especially in spring.

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