It is my goal to see all of the National Parks before I die, but Lee think we should also try and see as many National Monuments as we can as well. So after Cochise Stronghold when he suggested going to Chirachua Monument I thought why not. My expectation was that it would be a statue of some kind but boy was I wrong. Instead we founnd a mini Bryce and it was absolutely amazing. Let me back up though.
It was an additional 40 minute drive to the monument and it was even more isolated than the stronghold. We followed the GPS though and made it with no issues tp a very nice visitors center. I was particulary interested to learn that the coatis had immigrated north to this area and although we didn’t see any Jack’s nose was once again going crazy.
There are multiple ways to get to the top of the park, but we drove up along a gorgeous bottom of a canyon. It was hard to capture in pictures, but it was beautiful.
At the top there is a parking lot with an awesome nature trail although again I would wear hiking boots because it was a bit on the rough side. There are numerous trails that lead all the way down to the ranger station, but we just circled the top. The rock formations were absolutely stunning and we spent tons of time up there. The elevation was high enough that there were patchs of snow in some shady places but it was a gorgeous day to hike.
The hike was absolutely amazing but Lee also really loved the homestead areas as well. As is often the case with National Monuments one man lobbied to have this area protected and he was it’s first custodian. The farm was owned and run by the family until it was finally donated back to the park and Lee loved walking around and exploring this area.
As always our protected spaces never fail to impress, but I have to say this one really stood out and it’s a definite don’t miss if you are in the area. IT’s worth the drive!
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Camper Chronicles 
Thank you! This is one of our favorite places. The story of the “lost ranger” is fascinating. If you ever get a chance to tour the house, led by a ranger,do it!
Great post! I absolutely agree, the National Monuments are equally as beautiful as the National Parks…and usually alot less people! Haven’t been to this one but hope to soon. Thanks for another wonderful adventure to add to my list!