Getting There
Chiricahua National Monument is about 35 miles southeast of Willcox via AZ-186. No entry permits are required. As of May 2026, the shuttle service is NOT running -- you will need to drive or arrange your own transportation to trailheads. The visitor center has maps, water, and restrooms.
Easy Trails
Short walks with big views -- perfect for families and quick stops
Massai Point Trail
A short paved trail to one of the best panoramic overlooks in the monument. See thousands of hoodoo formations from above. Stunning at sunrise and sunset.
Bonita Creek Trail
A gentle walk along a seasonal creek. Wildflowers in spring, birds year-round, and a shaded creekbed to explore. Great for kids.
Echo Canyon Grottoes
A short trail to dramatic rock grottoes and overhangs. Walk through narrow passages between towering volcanic columns. A quick but memorable hike.
Moderate Trails
A good workout with rewarding views -- plan for 2-3 hours
Echo Canyon Loop
The most popular trail in Chiricahua. Wind through towering hoodoos, balanced rocks, and narrow slot-like passages. Constantly changing scenery that never gets old.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Climb to the highest accessible point in the monument at 7,310 feet. A historic fire lookout sits at the summit with 360-degree views of the Chiricahua range and beyond.
Natural Bridge Trail
Hike to a natural rock bridge formation deep in the monument. Less crowded than Echo Canyon, with beautiful forest and rock scenery along the way.
Strenuous Trails
Full-day adventures for experienced hikers -- bring plenty of water
Heart of the Rocks Loop
The crown jewel of Chiricahua. This loop passes through the densest concentration of hoodoo formations, including Big Balanced Rock -- a massive boulder perched impossibly on a pedestal. An unforgettable hike that defines the monument.
Big Loop Trail
The best full-day hike in the monument. Combines multiple trails for maximum variety -- forests, canyons, hoodoos, and ridgeline views. Pack lunch and take your time.
Inspiration Point
A challenging trail with dramatic overlooks across the Chiricahua range. The views from Inspiration Point are among the most dramatic in all of southern Arizona. Worth every step.
Trail Safety
- Bring water. At least 1 liter per hour of hiking. There is no water available on the trails. The desert is unforgiving.
- No cell service. Do not rely on your phone for navigation. Download offline maps or pick up a paper trail map at the visitor center before you start.
- Nearest trauma center is in Tucson -- approximately 90 miles away. Hike within your limits and tell someone your plans.
- Best seasons: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November). Summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees F at lower elevations.
- Wildlife: Watch for rattlesnakes on warm days. Give them space. Black bears are rare but present in the Chiricahuas.
- Shuttle NOT running as of May 2026. Plan your hike as an out-and-back or arrange transportation between trailheads.
- No permits needed. Chiricahua National Monument is free to enter. Camping is available at Bonita Canyon Campground (first come, first served).