Cover photo: Chiricahua National Monument, early morning. Photo credit: John Fowler via flickr CC BY 2.0
The Chiricahua National Monument lies between the Sonoron, Chihuahuan deserts on the southern edge of the Rockies. It is one of Arizona’s most treasured natural gems. Its unique rock formations were formed by a volcanic eruption approximately 27 million years ago. This created an extraordinary landscape filled with balancing rocks and hoodoos. The area of 18-square-miles was Established as a national monument on April 1, 1924To protect the area’s unique geology, and cultural history, both locals and state officials are now calling for a higher designation: Chiricahua National Park.
Hoodoos of Chiricahua. Photo credit to: Al_HikesAZFlickr CC BY -NC 2.0
The Turkey Creek Volcano eruptionThe volcanic activity responsible for the formation of the craggy topography was nearly 1000 times greater than that of Mt. Saint Helens, which erupted ash and siliceous material over a 1,200-mile region. After the particulates had cooled, they melted together to form a rock called Rhyolitic Tuff. Over time, the rhyolitic rocks eroded leaving behind an incredible array of striking spires, gravity-defying balancing stones, and other remarkable features.
The monument pictured above was not named the Wonderland of RocksFor nothing. It is an extraordinary experience to walk through the forest of sentinel-like columns that dates back thousands of years. Many people venture into the region, including photographers, birders and researchers, to view the amazing geology and study the unique fauna and flora that flourish in the area. The 12,000-acre area, which reaches 9,763 feet at its highest point is home to a variety of habitats, depending on elevation, sun exposure, and precipitation. There are more than 1,200 species of plants, from Douglas firs and Apache pines on the higher slopes to yuccas and agaves at lower elevations.
More than 200 species have been recorded in the monument. Visitors who plan to visit in spring or autumn can expect to see many migratory bird species on their journeys from Mexico and South America. Woodpeckers, jays, towhees, and wrens are all common. However, rarer species such as the elegant trogon or Rivolis hummingbird have also been recorded. Visitors may spot the white-nosed coati, western box turtle, and rattlesnakes, but they should be careful not to get too close to them.
Photo credit: BW via Flickr, BY-NC ND 2.0
Named after the native Chiricahua ApacheThe monument honors the cultural heritage and natural history of the people who first inhabited this land. They were relocated to New Mexico and Oklahoma by the government in 1886. Representatives from the Chiricahua Apache, however, play an important role in the management of this monument. They also act as spokespersons for their nation to preserve the cultural heritage and regional history.
It has been almost 100 years since Chiricahua National Monument status was granted. Arizonans are now ready for an upgrade. Arizona Sens. Senators from Arizona Supporters of the park argue that a status upgrade would increase recognition of the parks, which would lead to increased visitor numbers. Tourism, like many other communities within the vicinity of a national parks, would generate significant revenue. This would be a benefit to the rural counties that were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Local stakeholders, park advocates, tribal leaders and park advocates all participated in the drafting of these bills. They ensured that the highest possible environmental protection was achieved and that the history of the Chiricahua Apache’s presence is preserved and recognized. If the bill passes Congress, Arizona’s fourth national park will be Chiricahua.
People often overlook the Southwest because they gravitate to the granite cliffs at Yosemite, Glacier, or Tetons. Chiricahua offers stunning views, unspoiled landscapes, and abundant biodiversity. When planning your next trip, consider taking the less traveled route to discover what could be our newest national park.
Holly Eberhard, an intern with Environment America, contributed to this blog.
