Chiricahua National Monument

"A "Wonderland of Rocks" is waiting for you to explore at Chiricahua National Monument. The 8-mile paved scenic drive and 17-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."

We visited this National Park Service public site on April 7, 2020.  Shortly thereafter it is my understanding that the park roads were closed although walk-in was possible.  Thia was due to the CCP Covid-19 National Emergency.

The Monument is southeast of Willcox, Arizona, about 120 miles from Tucson.

This site offers a number of very pleasant walking trails. There are also interesting views.  As usual in this dry climate, using a head covering and carrying water to keep hydrated is essential. The lower trails offer shade and are cooler.

 

On the Massai Nature Trail:

 

There's a convenient lookout point on the trail:

There's even a tunnel on one of the trails:

Balanced Rocks Everywhere:

Hoodoos, too:

For cooler walking, try the Lower Rhyolite Trail:

 

The Lower Rhyolite Trail is an easy walk for portions, but there are more strenuous options:

Original material:  https://roadtrek210.blogspot.com/



Here's a link to the National Park Service website about this amenity:

https://www.nps.gov/chir/index.htm