Alert: Hiker Shuttle Operations Suspended for Summer Season

National Monument

Chiricahua

Many rock pinnacles with a valley and mountain range in background
Massai Point offers excellent views of the standing rocks at Chiricahua NPS Photo

Overview

Explore the pinnacles, spires, and balanced rocks that originated 27 million years ago by a massive volcanic eruption. Hike within these formations that help protect the exceptional biodiversity of the sky islands region. Connect with the human history spanning thousands of years, encompassing prehistoric indigenous peoples, Chiricahua Apaches, Buffalo Soldiers, ranchers, CCC, and visitors today.

State: AZ5208243560

Hours

  • Sunday: All Day
  • Monday: All Day
  • Tuesday: All Day
  • Wednesday: All Day
  • Thursday: All Day
  • Friday: All Day
  • Saturday: All Day

Fees & Passes

    Map

    Things To Do

    Category

    6 Results
      Green hillside with mountains and rock formations in the distance

      Sugarloaf Mountain Trail

      Free

      Description

      This moderate trail to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain is 1.8 miles/2.8 kilometers roundtrip. Rising above the surrounding canyons, the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain at 7,310ft/2,228m is one of the highest points in the monument. The dark rock is dacite, evidence of a lava flow. Lightning activity is monitored from the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed fire lookout during the summer. Return the same way. Access is from the Sugarloaf parking lot.

      More info
      Time:1-2 Hours
      Hillside full of rock formations

      Echo Canyon to Visitor Center

      Free

      Description

      This moderate, 4.2 mile/6.8 kilometer trail begins at Echo Canyon trailhead and consists of Echo Canyon, Upper Rhyolite Canyon, and Lower Rhyolite Canyon trails ending at the Visitor Center. It goes downhill through spectacular rock formations in Echo Canyon. The last half of the hike is in shaded oak woodlands. Make sure you have transportation back to your vehicle or ride the seasonal hikers' shuttle at 9:00 am.

      More info
      Time:2-4 Hours
      Cactus in front of large canyon

      Lower Rhyolite Canyon Trail

      Free

      Description

      A good way to view the rocks without driving up the road, this mostly-level trail takes you to Rhyolite Canyon, a canyon lined with rock pinnacles. Walk 1.5 miles / 2.4 km until you reach the junction between Upper Rhyolite Canyon and Sarah Deming trails. Return the same way.

      More info
      Picnic table under a ramada

      Picnicking

      Free

      Description

      The Bonita Creek and Faraway Ranch picnic areas have tables, trashcans, and restrooms. Massai Point, Echo Canyon, and Sugarloaf areas have tables and restrooms. Water is available at Faraway Ranch and the Visitor Center. Picnicking in Bonita Canyon campground is prohibited.

      More info
      Pet Friendly
      Acorn Woodpecker

      Birdwatching at Chiricahua

      Free

      Description

      Chiricahua is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 different bird species documented in the area! The best places for birdwatching in the monument include Bonita Creek Trail, Silver Spur Meadow Trail, and Echo Park, although you'll see birds anywhere in the monument.

      More info
      Pet Friendly
      Meadow surrounded by trees and a stone chimney

      Silver Spur Meadow Trail

      Free

      Description

      Beginning from the Visitor Center, Campground, or Faraway Ranch picnic area, this 1.2 mile/1.9 kilometer leisurely walk goes by the Faraway Ranch Historic District, Stafford Cabin, and Silver Spur Meadow. This is a dog-friendly trail.

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:30-60 Minutes

    More Images

    Many rock pinnacles with a valley and mountain range in background
    Many rock pinnacles with a valley and mountain range in background
    A ranch house in a green field surrounds by low mountains
    A ranch house in a green field surrounds by low mountains
    Children climb through rock archways
    Children climb through rock archways
    A narrow road winds between tall oaks and rock cliffs
    A narrow road winds between tall oaks and rock cliffs
    Large rock balanced on a small point
    Large rock balanced on a small point