This past April a friend of mine and I decided to take a trip from our dull location and head out to Chiricahua National Monument in southwest tip of Arizona. The monument is near the Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexican border. Once we passed Wilcox and turned south off of Interstate 10, baron desert surrounded us for many miles. Then in the far off distant, among the rolling hills of the southwest landscape, the Chiricahua Mountains seemed to rise from the desert floor.

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Chiricahua is a result of volcanic activity that occurred 27 million years ago. During the 1800s Chiricahua was home to many Apache Indian leaders such as Cochise and Geronimo. The incredible rock formations in this park created excellent hide-sites for Apache warriors who would attack pioneers moving west seeking mining opportunities in the surrounding area.

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Once we reached the top of the Chiricahua Mountain, at 6,800 feet above sea level, we set out on foot to see the rock formations up close. Along our trek, we were witness to the vast beauty of this national monument.

rock w-sculpture

There were many rocks formed into odd shapes and patterns for as long as the eye could see. This rock settlement (above) was one of many that appeared to be balancing on its own pedestal. This rock formation appeared as if it could give way with a little assistance.

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The trails along the top of the mountain extended for many miles and after about an hour, we decided to head back to our region of the desert and our long journey home.

sculpture (chiricahua)

Chiricahua National Monument is one of the most spectacular displays of nature I have ever been able to see. It was one of those places I know that I will probaly never visit again. I was very pleased that I took the time and effort to journey to this remote location and photograph it.

If you would like to learn more about the Chiricahua National Monument, here are some links of reference.

Chiricahua National Park Website
Arizona Tourism Website
Go Orbit Website