Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona

Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chiricahua_nima5.JPG
Author: Zereshk


Chiricahua National Monument is a group of rock formations in the Chiricahua Mountains in Arizona. The site is located about 36 miles (58 km) to the southeast of Willcox.

The Chiricahua rock formations were the work of a huge volcanic eruption which occured 27 million years ago, scattering two thousand feet of ash and pumice over the area. This hardened to become volcanic rock that later eroded to form the features seen today.

Balanced Rock, Chiricahua
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chiricahua_balanced_rock.jpg
Author: Sascha Brück


The Chiricahua National Monument was designated on 18 April, 1924. Also preserved within the designation is the Faraway Ranch of Swedish immigrants Neil and Emma Erickson. The ranch, established in 1887, passed into the hands of their eldest daughter Lillian, who continued the ranching operations after her parents relocated, as Neil had been promoted to District Ranger in 1917.

The Chiricahua rock formations became known across the country largely through the effort of Lillian's husband Ed Riggs, who went around the country promoting the "Wonderland of Rocks", while his wife stayed home to receive the guests.

When the Chiricahua National Monument was established in 1924, Riggs was hired to supervise the construction of the trails. He continued to manage the rance until his passing in 1950. The National Park Service then acquired the properties, and preserves it as an outstanding historical record of the business and personal affairs of the family.

Rock formations of Chiricahua National Monument
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chiricahua_weird_rocks_nima.JPG
Author: Zereshk

Visiting Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona

The Chiricahua National Monument is about 120 km to the southeast of Tucson, beyond Willcox. From Tucson, take Interstate 40 to the first exit for Willcox. Continue east on Arizona State Highway 186 until you reach the junction with Arizona State Highway 181. Turn left and continue east until you arrive at the Chiricahua entrance.

The national monument is open to the public the whole year round. Its visitor center is open from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Mountain Standard Time, and closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Entrance fee to the national monument is $5 per person. Children aged 15 and below enter free. Camping is possible for $12 per night per adult.

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