Wilcox, AZ: Valley of the Sun Chapter, Chiricahua National Monument Hike

About the hikes: We will take the shuttle from the Visitor Center to Echo Canyon Trailhead (if available) otherwise we will carpool to the Echo Canyon Trailhead. See this Trail Map. Both hikes will begin on Echo Canyon.

Echo Canyon Walk: The route winds through spectacular rock formations including the Grottoes and Wallstreet to the densely wooded Echo Park. You will transition to a beautiful Canyon and take Upper Rhyolite Canyon (creek crossing) to Lower Rhyolite Canyon back to the Visitor’s Center.
Heart of Rocks Addition: You will veer off on Sarah Deeming Trail into the canyon with a gradual climb of 880 ft on even surfaces to the Heart of Rock Loop. Heart of Rocks Loop has many of the most unusual rock formations in the monument. Start the loop to the left and hike clockwise for the best views and easiest walking. Lots of rock steps make this a challenging loop, but it’s worth the effort. Take your time and use your poles for balance. This section is optional and the walk through the canyon and up is beautiful should you decide to sit and have a snack at Big Balanced Rock while the adventurous walk the loop. Since it is a loop – you can also try it and retrace your steps should you decide not to proceed. We will retrace our steps and return to the Visitors Center via Lower Rhyolite Canyon.
There are restrooms but no water at the trailhead so bring your own (at least 2 Liters for Heart of Rocks), along with poles, sun protection, first aid, nutrition and a bio-break kit.

After the hike you are invited to stay for a picnic at Darryl & Kathleen’s Bonita Campground site. Bring a beverage and a dish to share.