Chiricahua

It might surprise you to learn that there are a number of great day trips from Phoenix. In fact, there are plenty of fun places to go for a day trip or weekend getaway, including the Grand Canyon. If you’re looking for day trips around Phoenix that don’t involve getting on an airplane and traveling far, here are some options.

A four-hour drive from Phoenix, located in the heart of Cochise County, the Chiricahua Mountains provide a great weekend getaway for camping, hiking, and exploring. The State of Arizona has designated the area as an Important Bird Area (IBA) because it provides critical habitat for certain species. More than 180 bird species have been identified at Chiricahua National Monument.

Chiricahua National Monument is located in the heart of Cochise County, Arizona. It is a four-hour drive from Phoenix and provides camping, hiking, and exploring. The State of Arizona has designated the area as an Important Bird Area (IBA) because it provides critical habitat for certain species. More than 180 bird species have been identified at Chiricahua National Monument.

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Chiricahua National Monument offers 12 miles of scenic hiking trails, including Echo Canyon and the Heart of Rocks Loop with many outstanding views of the surrounding rock formations and “hoodoos” that are one-of-a-kind in the region. The visitor’s center features exhibits on the area’s geology and history along with information on birds, mammals, and native plants that live there. A variety of outdoor activities are available at Chiricahua National Monument from camping to mountain biking to horseback riding. A snack bar is available offering light meals, snacks, ice cream, and soft drinks.

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Make sure to check out “Fossil Creek Road”, which heads north off Hwy 69 near Sweetwater. Fossil Creek Road will take you through a scenic part of central Arizona into the Coconino National Forest along with some beautiful scenery along the way.

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This road is a good road for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The area has been referred to as one of the best places in Arizona for rockhounding due to its unique rock formations and abundance of fossils found there. The Fossil Creek Trail located along this road also makes it easy for bikers and hikers alike to enjoy!

There are a variety of ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Arizona. Whether you want to experience history by visiting the Petrified Forest National Park or riding your bike along the Chino Valley Trail, there’s something out there for everyone. We hope this artic