Chiricahua Wilderness
The Chiricahua Wilderness is home to a fascinating diversity of both plant
and animal life, as well as some of the Southwest’s most spectacular
geology. Climaxed by 9,797 foot Chiricahua Peak, this 87,700-acre Wilderness
covers the upper slopes and inner canyons of the largest mountain range in
the “Sky Island” region. Here, you will find views international
in scope set in an area that supports a variety of birds and other wildlife,
some of which are more commonly thought of as denizens of subtropical habitats
in Mexico or Central America. This natural cornucopia attracts nature lovers
from all over the world.
The sharp ridges, high peaks and deep canyons of the Chiricahuas once served
as a home and refuge to Chiricahua Apaches led by Cochise and Geronimo. Later,
the area attracted prospectors, loggers and ranchers searching to find fortune
or a home with elbow room in America’s far corners. Today, the Chiricahua
Wilderness with its extensive system of trails provides an opportunity for
nature lovers to engage in a more gentle quest, one of self-renewal, inspiration
and personal discovery.
Attractions:
Diverse flora and fauna
Diverse recreation opportunities (marked trails, primitive trails, trailless
areas)
Diverse history
Maps: Coronado National Forest Recreation Map (Chiricahua, Peloncillo and
Dragoon Mtns).
USGS Quads: Rustler Park, Chiricahua Peak, Portal, Portal Peak, Fife
Peak, Stanford Canyon, Swede Peak.
Location: 100 miles east of Tucson, 40 miles northeast of Douglas,
45 miles southeast of Willcox, 45 miles southwest of Lordsburg, New
Mexico.
(Straight
line distances, not road mileages.)
Elevation: Approximately 5,200'-9,797'
Access: FR 42D to the Crest Trail #270 at Rustler Park; FR 42 to
South Fork Trail #243 near Portal; FR 74E to Rucker Trail #222
at Rucker
Recreation Area.
Trails in Wilderness: Major trails are the Crest #270, Rucker
#222, and South Fork #243. Other trails include # 43, 221, 224,
228,
246, 247,
248, 263,
264 & 352.
Notes:
Motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment, including mountain
bikes, are not permitted in Wilderness. Please abide by Wilderness
rules and
observe NO TRACE! ethics.
Water is available in most canyons and at springs along the
Crest year-round. Purification of water is recommended prior
to use.
Trail conditions range from primitive trails requiring map
and compass reading skills to well-maintained, signed trails
accessible
from
main trailheads.
Call the Douglas Ranger District or consult individual
trail descriptions to determine which trails to visit
for the type
of trip you desire.
Black bears are plentiful in this area. Hang your food
out of reach, keep a clean camp and pack out what you
pack in.
|
