{"product_id":"northern-chiricahua-mountains-coronado-national-forest-chiricahua-national-monument-us-forest-service-r3-map","title":"Northern Chiricahua Mountains - Coronado National Forest \u0026 Chiricahua National Monument","description":"Welcome...to the Chiricahuas\r\nWhile not the highest mountains in southeast Arizona, the Chiricahua Mountains have a unique and vibrant history. Explosive volcanism and continental uplifting 50 to 75 million years ago formed the mountains of this region. Further periods of volcanic activity and long-term erosion shaped the Chiricahuas into what they are today. Volcanic outflows combined with ash and dust to form the welded tuff. Time then allowed for the weathering of this material to form unique pinnacles, balanced rocks, and caves now found here.\r\nToday, the Chiricahua Mountains lie in a unique intersection zone where the Rocky Mountain forests, Sierra Madrean woodlands, and Chihuahuan and Sonoran deserts and grasslands converge. Elevation, slope, orientation to the sun, mountain rain shadows, proximity to streams and underground water, and the depth and type of soils are all interrelated in shaping local microclimates and vegetation. Forest fires, insects, disease, erosion and rockslides also work to shape the area's flora. On the north side of the range's summits, shaded from the sun's warmth and well watered by summer rains and winter snows lie the continent's southernmost stands of Engelmann spruce. Ponderosa pine, aspen, and Douglas fir are common in the higher reaches of the range. The lower, warmer slopes of the mountain are covered by woodlands like those of northern Mexico; Apache pine, Chihuahua pine, Emory oak, Alligator juniper, and Mexican pinyon are common. The canyons of the range support a tremendous variety of plant species; in a small area, one might find the above species as well as silverleaf oak, Arizona cypress, bigtooth maple, Arizona sycamore, and Fremont cottonwood. The hot, dry slopes of the mountains, as well as the surrounding grasslands support agave, ocotillo, acacia, cactus, yucca, manzanita, and numerous grasses and forbs. In all, there are some 1,400 species of plants, more than 500 vertebrate species, and thousands of invertebrates, making the Chiricahuas one of the most biologically diverse areas in the continental United States. Many of these animal species are year-round residents, while others are occasional or migratory residents. These include the black bear, white-tailed and mule deer, mountain lion, coatimundi, javelina, Gila monster, ridge-nosed and twin spotted rattlesnakes, and more than 300 species of birds. Located at the fringe of both the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Madrean Mountains, the Chiricahuas are home to, or on the migratory route of, many North American, Mexican, and Central American birds. A wide variety of hawks, owls, hummingbirds, warblers, thrushes and sparrows, as well as the elegant and eared trogon, sulphur-bellied flycatcher, thick-billed parrot, and Mexican chickadee are found here.\r\nCoronado National Forest\r\nThe Douglas Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest contains an amazing diversity of recreational opportunities in the Dragoon, Peloncillo, and Chiricahua Mountains. The Chiricahuas are by far the largest of these three mountain ranges. In fact, many people spend years getting to know the Chiricahuas and the many treasures they contain.\r\n•\tCave Creek Canyon lies on the east side of the Chiricahua Mountains near Portal, Arizona, and the New Mexico border. This beautiful region is bordered by 1,000-foot cliffs of red rock with natural arches and caves. The 2,000-foot-tall Cathedral Rock is easily visible from the Cave Creek Visitor Information Center, where one can buy maps and literature, view interpretive exhibits, and hike a short nature trail. Next to the visitor center is the Portal Bunkhouse and Portal CCC House. These cabins were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933. Further up the canyon, the South Fork of Cave Creek contains such a wealth of biological diversity that it has been designated a Zoological-Botanical Area by the Forest Service. This area is internationally renowned by birding enthusiasts who congregate to watch peregrine falcons, Cooper's hawks, hummingbirds, painted redstarts, elegant trogons, and numerous other birds. There are 5 developed campgrounds (37 campsites), a picnic area, and numerous trails in Cave Creek Canyon, allowing campers many opportunities to explore the Chiricahua Wilderness or the South Fork Zoological Botanical Area while maintaining a convenient base of operations.\r\n\r\n•\tRustler Park Campground is 15 miles west of Portal. At an elevation of 8,500 feet, Rustler Park is a large meadow nestled in the cool, shady pine forest. The 22 campsites provide drinking water, toilets, fire grills, picnic tables, and bear-resistant food storage boxes. Rustler Park Guard Station, with a log cabin, kitchen, barn, and corrals, were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Rustler Park is one of the most beautiful and popular areas in the Chiricahuas, providing easy access to nearby hiking trails and the Chiricahua Wilderness. \r\n\r\n•\tChiricahua Wilderness encompasses 87,700 acres of forest in the highest part of the Chiricahua Mountains, including the 9,796-foot Chiricahua Peak. This vast expanse has more than 100 miles of trails through forests of Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, aspen, Engelmann spruce, sycamore, oak, juniper, and maple. A number of springs and small creeks are present in the wilderness, making water a relatively easy find for backpackers and hikers. Trails in the wilderness, such as the Crest Trail with its panoramic views, offer easy hikes for day trippers as well as more rugged and remote areas for people seeking challenge and primitiveness. Cima Guard Station and the cabin at the Monte Vista Lookout are historic log buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps.\r\n\r\n•\tWest Turkey Creek and Sycamore Campgrounds are two small areas in the shade of the sycamore and oak trees lining the banks of West Turkey Creek. On its way past the campgrounds, the creek gurgles around rocks and over small waterfalls. These 2 campgrounds have 9 sites with fire grills, toilets, and tables. A number of dispersed campsites are also available in West Turkey Creek Canyon. Many trails start near West Turkey Creek, providing visitors to the Chiricahua Wilderness with panoramic views of the canyon and a great chance to see some of the wildlife that make West Turkey Creek their home.\r\n\r\n•\tRucker Canyon is located on the southwestern portion of the Chiricahua Mountains and is known for its primitive feel and limited developed recreation. Oak, juniper, and Arizona walnut trees provide ample shade during the hot summer days. The only developed campground, Walnut Grove, is located along Rucker Creek. This campground provides eight large trailer back-in sites and two tent sites. It has picnic tables, campground rings with grills, bear-proof trash containers, and vault toilets. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are recommended for high clearance vehicles only. The Walnut Grove campground is located near the Camp Rucker historic site which offers a vantage point close to the 1869 Battle of Chiricahua site, a battle resulting in 33 Medals of Honor being awarded. In addition, several buildings remain, and a short interpretive trail winds through the area.\r\nChiricahua National Monument\r\nChiricahua National Monument was established on April 18, 1924, by President Calvin Coolidge. \r\nChiricahua National Monument provides an excellent opportunity for hikers to view unusual geologic formations, flora, and fauna. The 17 miles of trails wind through the park leading guests through towering spires, columns, natural bridges, and historical sites, make Chiricahua National Monument a spectacular place to spend a few days.\r\nChiricahua National Monument Wilderness (10,290 acres) encompasses about 86% of the entire monument. The marked and maintained trails provide plenty of opportunities for viewing the monument's unique geography and diverse wildlife. Overnight camping is restricted to the Bonita Canyon Campground.\r\nThe visitor center offers information, maps, exhibits, books, and a short audio-visual program about the Chiricahua National Monument. Before setting out on the trails, ask the rangers or check the bulletin boards for information about trail conditions and tours.\r\nOpen all year, Bonita Canyon Campground is located in a shady pine and oak grove near the riparian area of Bonita Canyon wash. It has 25 sites and with rest rooms (flush toilets), running water, picnic tables, and trash pickup. There is a group campground that can accommodate 9 to 24 people (8 tents max).  There are no hookups or showers. Vehicle length limit is 29 feet. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days. There is no cell service. Reserve campsites through \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.recreation.gov\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewww.recreation.gov\u003c\/a\u003e.\r\nFaraway Ranch was established in the late 1800s by homesteaders Neil and Emma Erickson, Swedish immigrants who built their little home in the foothills in Bonita Canyon. In the 1920s their daughter, Lillian, and her husband, Ed Riggs, turned the \"far away\" ranch into a guest ranch. Guided tours horseback were features of the guest ranch. Today, the grounds are open all year and tours of the main house at the ranch are conducted daily.\r\nFort Bowie is located 20 miles northwest of the Chiricahua National Monument and is maintained by the National Park Service. In the late 1800s, Fort Bowie was an outpost of the U.S. Army. Today, remnants of the fort, the Butterfield Stage route, and the Battle of Apache Pass reveal the history of the Apache Wars during the late 19th century.\r\nSafety in the Mountains\r\nThe Chiricahuas are beautiful and have ample opportunity for recreational pursuits. They are also rugged and remote, presenting many potential hazards and life-threatening situations to visitors. Observing the following measures can help to ensure your well being.\r\nKnow what kind of weather to expect. The Chiricahuas range from desert to cool forest . Be prepared. Weather in the summer months can quickly change from hot and sunny to cool and rainy. The Chiricahuas often have snowfall during the winter months, with temperatures below freezing and occasionally below zero, Bring the proper clothing to stay warm and dry.\r\nAlways inform friends or relatives where you are going and when you will return. Travel in groups of at least 3 or 4. If someone in your party is injured, have one person stay behind while another goes for help. Carry a map and compass, and become familiar with their proper use. When hiking, take care to notice landmarks. Remember, if you're really lost, stay where you are someone will rescue you. For emergency assistance call 911.\r\nTemperatures in the Chiricahuas often reach into the 90s or even 100s, and the potential for heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration is great if one does not carry an adequate supply of water. Three to four quarts of water per person per day is the minimum recommended quantity. To avoid intestinal parasites always filter, boil, or use tablets in creek water before drinking it. \r\nAvoid being struck by lightning during a thunderstorm by staying off ridges and away from lone trees. \r\nRoads and trails may become slippery or impassable in rainy, snowy, or icy conditions. Mudslides and rockslides occur more frequently during and immediately after wet weather. Drive defensively, be especially careful on sharp curves.\r\nFlash floods can occur in a dry wash within seconds, even if it is not raining in the immediate area. Avoid camping or parking your vehicle in washes whenever possible.\r\n\r\nForest fires burn millions of acres each year and threaten life and property. Keep fires small and\r\nnever leave them unattended. If you spot a wildfire, report it as soon as possible.\r\nBe aware that for several years after a forest fire, fallen trees and limbs are common. Trail tread may be eroded or completely washed out. Signs may be missing. Use caution when hiking in burned areas. Camp well away from burned trees, as they are especially prone to falling over.\r\nBears are shy animals that rarely interact with humans. However, they can become habituated to human food, especially in times of natural food shortages. Bears are known to frequent campgrounds in the Chiricahuas, looking for easily accessible food. Store your food properly. If a bear has acquired your food, don't attempt to take it away. Avoid coming between a sow bear and her cubs.\r\nAfricanized honeybees can be very aggressive and dangerous. Bees attack primarily in defense of their hive or colony. To minimize your chances of interaction with bees, watch and listen for concentrations of bee activity, and avoid disturbing potential nest sites such as hollow dead trees or logs. If attacked, the best strategy is to run away as fast as you can and find shelter in a house or car. If you are far from shelter, run through tall brush with the hopes of confusing the bees. Because the bees target your head and eyes, cover your head as much as you can, without slowing your progress.\r\nPoisonous snakes and scorpions are fairly common in the Chiricahuas. Rattlesnakes can be avoided by kicking downed logs before stepping over them and by staying alert in rocky areas. Avoid putting your hands under rocks or logs. If you are bitten or stung, stay calm and seek medical attention immediately.\r\nHunting is prohibited within 1\/4 mile of a residence or across any body of water or roadway. During hunting season, fluorescent orange clothing is recommended to minimize the chance of accidents.\r\nTap water is regularly tested to ensure that it meets Arizona drinking water standards. Water from springs, streams, lakes, ponds, and stock tanks are not tested. It is recommended this water be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated prior to consumption.","brand":"US Forest Service R3","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44324879270044,"sku":"1687267","price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0441\/7850\/5884\/files\/us-forest-service-r3-northern-chiricahua-mountains-2024-coronado-national-forest-map-1687267-preview-0.jpg?v=1723668591","url":"https:\/\/store.avenza.com\/products\/northern-chiricahua-mountains-coronado-national-forest-chiricahua-national-monument-us-forest-service-r3-map","provider":"Avenza Maps","version":"1.0","type":"link"}