Chiricahua National Monument

The story behind these formations the "Land of Standing-Up Rocks" is not completely understood, but geologists believe that about 27 million years ago a violent volcanic eruption from the nearby Turkey Creek caldera spewed forth thick white-hot ash. The ash cooled and fused into an almost 2,000-foot thick layer of bark volcanic rock known as rhyolite. The Chiricahua Mountains formed also from this rock upheaval, and then the masters of erosion- water, wind and ice- began sculpting the rock into odd formations. Erosion carving along weak vertical and horizontal cracks forming the fascinating rock formations preserved today in Chiricahua National Monument.

Scenic Drive: Climbing gradually through oak-juniper and pine forests, Bonita Canyon Drive winds 8 miles to the mountains' crest and Massai Point.

Trails: More than 20 miles of trails wind through the park. They go past unusual rock formations such as Duck on a Rock, Totem Pole, and Big Balanced Rock. They lead to a small natural bridge and a ledge of volcanic hailstones, evidence of ancient eruptions that created the rocks of Chiricahua.

Acreage: 11,984.80

Federal: 11,982.38

Nonfederal: 2.42

Wilderness area: 9,440

For more information:

Superintendent

Chiricahua National Monument

Dos Cabezas Route

Box 6500

Willcox, AZ 85643

602-824-3560

Source: U.S. National Park Service Chiricahua Pamphlet