Wonderland of Rocks

We found Chiricahua National Monument, first as a little brown square on our AAA map.  It's located in the quiet southeast corner of Arizona, 35 miles south of Willcox (almost the Mexican border).  We checked it out on the internet and learned that this NM has incredible hikes through Rhyolite formations.  There is also much history of the Chiricahua Apaches and the settlers at Faraway Ranch.

There are over 15 miles of hiking trails that wind through the canyons, forests (!) of pine and cedar, and through the rock formations.  We hiked two days with an almost 8 mile hike on day one.  A little tired by the end of the hike, but well worth it.  And thanks to the park shuttle that transported us to the top at Massai Point, we were able to hike mostly downhill over 1200 feet.  Trails included: Ed Riggs, Mushroom Rock, Big Balanced Rock, Heart of Rocks, Sarah Demming, and Lower Ryolite -- Lots of ROCKS.

Besides the scenery and formations, we appreciated what the CCC accomplished in the 1930s.  Chiricahua was a major project for the CCC.  They build the visitor center, campground facilities, and all of the trails.  The visitor center had interesting exhibits about the CCC, Faraway Ranch, and the Apaches.

Another place that we will come back to!