Millions of years ago, a volcano exploded near Chiricahua National Monument, covering the landscape with ash and lava and forming a sea of igneous rock. Wind and rain worked their magic over the centuries, eroding the stone and creating a canyon full of otherworldly spires that rise above the treetops. Today, you can hike among the hoodoos and explore the remains of the ancient lava flow. You might even have the site to yourself — this remote park, which sits in the far southwestern corner of Arizona, only sees about 60,000 visitors per year.
Chiricahua National Monument sits 5,000-7,000 feet above sea level, which means that it experiences four distinct seasons. Whether you're coming during the heat of summer or the winter snows, an RV is a great way to camp. If you don't own a motorhome, why not consider a rental? With RVshare, you can pick the perfect size and select a model with all of the amenities you need for a relaxing camping trip.
There's a reason that Chiricahua National Monument is called a "Wonderland of Rocks" — the rock formations are the stars of the show. The best way to see them is on the 17-mile trail network. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic drive through the park, go horseback riding, or take a guided tour of the historic ranch house.
Hiking TrailsIf you're short on time or you prefer a quick hike, the Echo Canyon Grottoes Trail should be your first choice. It's quick and easy, but it gives you the chance to explore the spectacular hoodoos.
Echo Canyon Trailhead
1 Mile Round Trip
Easy to Moderate
The Echo Canyon Loop is easily the most popular hike in the park, and it's easy to see why — this route winds through the remarkable rock formations, so you can marvel at the remarkable height and shape. While you hike, you'll see cacti, yucca, and agave plants as well as a dense stand of pine trees. The loop consists of three trails called Echo Canyon, Hailstone, and Ed Riggs. For an easier hike, start with the Ed Riggs trail and walk counterclockwise; for a challenge, start with the Echo Canyon trail.
Echo Canyon Trailhead
3.3 Miles Round Trip
Moderate
If you have a full day, do the Chiricahua National Monument's "Big Loop" hike. It combines eight shorter trails into one large loop, enabling you to see the best parts of the park. Hike up rocky canyons, climb steep cliff faces, and stand in the shadow of the most remarkable hoodoos in the area. Keep an eye out for the big balanced rock, which perches precariously on top of a rock tower. This route takes you to a series of spectacular viewpoints such as Heart of Rocks, so you can see the rock spires stretching out before you.
Echo Canyon Trailhead
9.5 Miles Round Trip
Moderate to Strenuous
SightseeingEnjoy Chiricahua National Monument from the comfort of your car on the Bonita Canyon Scenic Drive. Stretching for 8 miles, this route takes you into the canyon, passing a variety of overlook points along the way. Make sure to stop at Massai Point for some of the best views in the park.
Visitor Center
In the early 1900s, the Erickson family built Faraway Ranch; later, it became a guest ranch run by two of the Erickson children. Today, you can tour the ranch with a ranger and get an idea of what it was like to live and to work in this remote location more than 100 years ago.
Faraway Ranch Historic District
Deep in the arid, rocky landscape, the remarkable Chiricahua Natural Bridge spans the gap between two rocky cliffs. You'll need to walk more than 2 miles to see the bridge, but the effort pays off in stunning scenery and panoramic views.
Natural Bridge Trail Parking Area
MuseumsOn your way to or from the Chiricahua National Monument, you'll pass by the Rex Allen Museum. Small and charming, this spot is dedicated to its namesake Rex Allen, a cowboy-turned-actor who played a singing cowboy in 19 different movies. His comedic pairing with Buddy Ebsen was legendary in Western films. Visit this museum to learn about Allen's life and to see a collection of memorabilia and historic photos.
150 N Railroad Ave, Willcox, AZ 85643
Set aside 30-60 minutes to check out the tiny Chiricahua Regional Museum, which is carefully curated and operated by a team of dedicated volunteers. It covers the history of the area, offering a selection of Native American and cowboy artifacts. If you're interested in Native American history, make sure to check out the exhibits about Cochise and Geronimo, two local Apache leaders.
127 E Maley St, Willcox, AZ 85643
Nearby Shops and RestaurantsGet everything you need for your camping trip at Safeway; it's the closest grocery store to Chiricahua National Monument.
650 N Bisbee Ave, Willcox, AZ 85643
Apple Annie's Country Store sells a wide range of farm products, including locally grown apples, peaches, pomegranates, and pears. You can also pick up jams, jellies, and other treats. In the fall, don't miss the delicious apple cider doughnuts.
1510 N Circle I Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643
If you love antiques or unusual pieces, don't miss Willcox Traders. This shop is packed full of fantastic treasures; find everything from crystal glassware to bizarre statues and vintage Wild West art.
100 S Haskell Ave, Willcox, AZ 85643
Small and unassuming, Rodney's is a friendly restaurant serving homestyle foods. Grab a seat on the lovely back patio and dig into a burger or a plate of barbecued meat and beans.
118 N Railroad Ave, Willcox, AZ 85643
With its reasonable prices and enormous portions, La Unica Restaurant & Tortilleria is the perfect dinner stop after a day of exploring. Start your meal with the bacon-wrapped shrimp and end it with a refreshing margarita.
142 N Haskell Ave, Willcox, AZ 85643
Dig into a plate of prime rib at Double S Steakhouse, which prides itself on working with local farmers and ranchers. If you're in the mood for something lighter, try street tacos or wings.
1201 W Rex Allen Dr, Willcox, AZ 85643
Interstate 10 runs about 40 miles north of Chiricahua National Monument. Head east on I-10 from Tucson or west from New Mexico. At Willcox, head south on AZ-189, and turn east on East Bonita Canyon Road until you reach the park entrance.
12856 E Rhyolite Creek Rd., Willcox, AZ 85643
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person)
There is no entry fee.
Chiricahua National Monument is the perfect place to get away from it all; pull your RV into a desert campsite, and enjoy the stillness and solitude. Come for a weekend or longer; with the remarkable rock formations and stunning landscape, you can spend days hiking or relaxing in the wilderness. An RV trip is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty and to enjoy a comfortable night's sleep.
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