Chiricahua National Monument

Chiricahua National Monument: see National Parks and Monuments (table).

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Chiricahua National Monument

Natural area, southeastern Arizona, U.S. Unusual volcanic rock formations forming a wilderness of tall pinnacles are crowded into 19 sq mi (48.5 sq km) of ridge and canyon on the western flank of the Chiricahua Mountains. Established in 1924, the park unfolds a geologic story dating back millions of years. The region was once a stronghold of Apache Indians under Cochise and Geronimo.

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Chiricahua National Monument

Parks Directory of the United States / US National Parks / National Monuments

Address: 13063 East Bonita Canyon Rd
Wilcox, AZ 85643
Phone: 520-824-3560;
Fax: 520-824-3421;
Web: www.nps.gov/chir/
Size: 11,985 acres.
Established: Proclaimed on April 18, 1924; transferred from Forest Service on August 10, 1933. Wilderness designated on October 20, 1976.
Location: 120 miles east of Tucson. Exit I-10 at Willcox, and follow State Route 186 for 36 miles to the monument.
Facilities: Campground, picnic area, rest rooms (é), visitor center (é), museum/exhibit, trails (20+ miles). Entrance fee required.
Activities: Camping, hiking, bird-watching, wildlife viewing, auto touring, interpretive programs.
Special Features: This forest of rock spires was eroded from layers of ash deposited by the Turkey Creek Volcano eruption 27 million years ago. Faraway Ranch, an early dude ranch, has been restored, and daily tours of the house offer a chance to learn about Swedish immigrants Neil and Emma Erickson and their children, one of the first families to settle in the area. The park area and surrounding mountains were also the homeland of the Chiricahua Apaches.

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See other parks in Arizona.