The Park entrance area includes this approach to old guest ranch buildings preserved on the property. They are open for tours in the summer months and would have been very interesting. We ventured on to the Visitor Center and surprised Carolyn when she recognized Terry's voice but had to find a face to match from the visitors. After a quick catch-up visit she directed us to the campground and gave us ideas for a hike and other exploring. As soon as we saw the great little quiet campground we knew this would be a 2 nighter. A scenic road goes up into the mountains from the CG and we took that up into the late afternoon fog which clouded the views but gave us a chance to find some interesting trails for the morning.
The trails wind through one balanced rock stack after another. Their shapes are odd, interesting and often resemble animals and even people!
We took the Grottoes Trail that led to a series of sheltered rooms and on down into the valley below. The views through the rock stacks and trees into the distant flat plains were wonderful. The climb back up wasn't as bad as we expected, but those hiking poles I left in the truck would have been a big help!
Another feature of the park is the Cochise Peak above his stronghold in the valley. We had a great view after our morning hike.
The clear evening gave us a great view of the brilliant night sky and a thousand stars, though we couldn't help but compare it to the 2 thousand we slept under at Great Basin. Chiricahua is a wonderful place, so unique and distinct-- another little hidden gem not to miss if you are near Wilcox, AZ. Thanks for inviting us to visit, Carolyn. We'll be back, maybe as hosts someday!
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