| Twenty seven million years ago a volcanic eruption of immense proportions shook the land around the Chiricahua National Monument. One thousand times greater than the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, the Turkey Creek Caldera eruption eventually laid down two thousand feet of highly silicious ash and pumice. This mixture fused into a rock called rhyolitic tuff and eventually eroded into the spires and unusual rock formations that can be seen at the Chiricahua National Monument.Of historic interest is the Faraway Ranch, a pioneer homestead and later a working cattle and guest ranch. It is a significant example of human transformation of the western frontier from wilderness to the present settlement. Faraway Ranch offers glimpses into the lives of Swedish immigrants Neil and Emma Erickson, and their children. The house is furnished with historic artifacts.The Chiricahua National Monument features 17 miles of maintained trails in a monument that is 87% designated wilderness. Trails vary in degree of difficulty. The Echo Canyon Trail and the Heart of Rocks Trail offer spectacular views of balanced rocks, spires and pinnacles. The free hikers-shuttle leaves the Visitor Center every day at 8:30 a.m. Park staff shuttle visitors to the upper canyon trailheads so they may hike back down the canyon. Seating is very limited.One can view animals and birds not seen outside the desert southwest at the Chiricahua National Monument. Mammal species include: javelina, coatimundi, hog-nosed and hooded skunks, white-tailed deer, bears, and mountain lions. Birds seen include: magnificent hummingbirds, black-chinned hummingbirds, Scott's orioles, hepatic tanagers, painted redstarts, yellow-rumped warblers, red-faced warblers, and black-headed grosbeaks. |
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| | | Facilities: The Chiricahua National Monument does provide restrooms, however, no food, drinks, or vending machines are available. Obtain gas in Willcox, gasoline is not available at or near the monument. Best Time To Visit: The Chiricahua National Monument Visitor Center is open 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. daily; closed Christmas Day. Peak season is from March - May. Fees: Admissions fees are charged to enter the Chiricahua National Monument. Group rates are available. Accessibility: The visitor center and campground are fully accessible, including rest room facilities. The Faraway Ranch House can accommodate a narrow wheelchair. Short paved trail from Massai Point parking lot to the exhibit building provides waysides and views of the Chiricahua National Monument. Rules: Pets (dogs) are not permitted on trails. Directions: The Chiricahua National Monument is located 120 miles east of Tucson. Take I-10 east and exit I-10 at Willcox, and follow State Route 186 36 miles south to the Chiricahua National Monument. Map: Click here for a map to Chiricahua National Monument Reservations: No telephone reservations are accepted for shuttles. | | |
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| | | | | Address | | Chiricahua National Monument | | 13063 E. Bonita Canyon Rd. | | Willcox, Arizona 85643 |
| | | Phone | | General: (520) 824-3560 | |
| | | | | Website | | Email |
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