Miller Peak Wilderness
Named for the highest peak in the Huachuca Mountains, this Wilderness encompasses
20,190 acres and was established in 1984. The Miller Peak Wilderness is a land
of sheer cliffs, soaring summits and deep canyons. Trails here climb from 5,200
feet to as high as 9,466 feet at the apex of Miller Peak, and offer some of
the most dramatic views in the Southwest. The slopes crisscrossed by those
trails include habitats that range from desert grassland to mixed conifer and
aspen forest.
In these diverse life-zones lives an amazing variety of wildlife
including over 170 species of birds (14 species of hummingbirds). Seventy-eight
species of mammals have been observed in the Huachucas including coatimundi,
javelina, black bear and mountain lion. Over 60 species of reptiles also
can be found here.
Seventeenth-century Spanish Captain Juan Mateo Manje referred to these mountains
in his expedition journal as Sierra de Huachuca, or Huachuca Mountains. The
name was most likely taken from a nearby Piman village.
The Huachucas are rich in history. These canyons, cliffs, and forests are
littered with the remains of various late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century
mining
booms that all eventually went bust. Today, the gold rush has been replaced
by a recreation rush which is adding a new chapter to the history of the
Miller Peak Wilderness.
Attractions:
Views stretching well into Mexico
Towering cliffs, high peaks
Watchable wildlife, including world class birdwatching
Historic mining/prospecting area
Picturesque canyons, lush riparian areas
Maps: Coronado National Forest Recreation Map (Nogales and Sierra Vista
Ranger Districts).
USGS Quads: Miller Peak, Huachuca Peak, Montezuma Pass.
Location: Six miles south of Sierra Vista, 85 miles southeast of
Tucson. (Straight line distances, not road mileages.)
Elevation: 5,200'-9,466'
Access: Major access points are at trailheads at or near the end
of FR 368 in upper Carr Canyon, at the end of FR 56 in Miller
Canyon, and from
FR 61
and FR
771 along the southern and western edge of the Huachucas.
Trails in Wilderness: Major trails include the Crest #103, Miller
Canyon #106, Carr Peak #107, Hamburg #122, Lutz Canyon #104,
Ida Canyon #110,
Sunnyside Canyon #117, Oversite Canyon #112, Comfort Springs
#109, Bear Canyon #125,
and numerous
spurs and connectors.
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.
When traveling in remote areas use a topographic map and
compass, go with a companion whenever possible, and always
tell someone
where you’ve gone and when you
expect to return.
Water is available year-round at a limited number of springs
and streams only. Purification of water is recommended
prior to use.
During dry
periods, carry
your own.
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