Chiricahua National Monument is known for its dramatic rock formations and scenic desert landscape. Sometimes referred to as the “Land of Standing-Up Rocks,” the monument features towering stone spires, balanced rocks, and narrow canyons formed by volcanic activity and millions of years of erosion.

About 27 million years ago, a massive volcanic eruption created thick layers of ash that later hardened into rhyolite rock. Over time, wind, water, and temperature changes slowly shaped this rock into the unusual formations seen today. The monument is also rich in plant and animal life. Because it sits where several ecosystems meet, the monument supports a rich variety of species, including velvet mesquite, oak and pine trees, mammals such as white-tailed deer and coati, and over 200 bird species. This diversity makes it a popular spot for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.

Chiricahua has cultural importance as well. Indigenous peoples lived in and traveled through the area for thousands of years, and later it became part of the homeland of the Chiricahua Apache. In the early 1900s, the area gained attention for its unique geology, and President Calvin Coolidge designated it a national monument in 1924.

Today, Chiricahua National Monument offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and educational programs, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate one of Arizona’s most stunning natural landscapes and the cultural legacy of the Native American people who called it home. 

To learn more about the Chiricahua National Monument and/or to plan a visit, visit the monument's website. The Sonoran Desert Inventory and Monitoring network monitors a host of natural resources at the park including climate and groundwater (including using a novel method [eDNA] to find rare and invasive species), and vegetation mapping.