The Majestic Big Balanced Rock: A Natural Wonder in Fort Grant
Discover the enchanting Big Balanced Rock in Fort Grant, Arizona, a stunning geological marvel surrounded by serene desert landscapes.
Big Balanced Rock, located in Fort Grant, Arizona, is a stunning natural formation that draws visitors from far and wide. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of the region, this impressive boulder teeters precariously on a smaller rock, creating a captivating sight that is perfect for photography and exploration. For those who love the great outdoors, this location provides not only a unique geological marvel but also a serene environment for hiking and enjoying nature's beauty.
A brief summary to Big Balanced Rock
- Fort Grant, Arizona, 85643, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during hot days.
- Don't forget your camera; the sunset views from Big Balanced Rock are breathtaking.
- Take time to explore the surrounding area to fully appreciate the unique desert ecosystem.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving, start from the Chiricahua National Monument visitor center located at 2 miles south of the entrance on the road. From the visitor center, take the main road into the park and follow the signs for the Massai Point Road. Drive approximately 8 miles until you reach the Massai Point parking lot. Here, you can park your car and start your hike to Big Balanced Rock. The trail to Big Balanced Rock is approximately 2 miles round trip, and it is a moderately easy hike that offers beautiful views of the unique rock formations.
-
Hiking
Once you arrive at the Massai Point parking lot, look for the trailhead sign for the Big Balanced Rock trail. The trail is well-marked and leads you through stunning scenery. You will begin your hike on the well-maintained path. Keep an eye out for trail markers and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna along the way. The hike to Big Balanced Rock will take about 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate hiking shoes.
-
Public Transportation
If you are relying on public transportation, your best option would be to take a bus or shuttle service to the nearby town of Willcox, AZ, which is approximately 30 miles from the Chiricahua Mountains. From Willcox, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you to the Chiricahua National Monument entrance. Once there, you can follow the same directions as above for driving to reach the Massai Point parking lot.
Discover more about Big Balanced Rock
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chiricahua Mountains
9.1 km
Explore a sky island of rock formations, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife in southeastern Arizona's Chiricahua Mountains. A natural wonderland!
Indian Bread Rocks Recreation Area
31.9 km
Explore the rugged beauty of Arizona's Dos Cabezas Mountains at Indian Bread Rocks Recreation Area.
Geronimo Surrender Monument
37.8 km
Explore the Geronimo Surrender Monument in San Simon, Arizona, a historic landmark honoring the Apache leader's surrender and cultural significance.
Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area
59.7 km
Explore Arizona's Hot Well Dunes: Ride the sands, soak in hot springs, and camp under the stars in this unique desert recreation area.
Dragoon Springs stagecoach stop
66.1 km
Discover the rich history of the Old West at the Dragoon Springs Stagecoach Stop, a significant landmark in Arizona's captivating landscape.
White House Ruins
68.1 km
Explore the historic White House Ruins in Dragoon, Arizona, and step back in time to experience the rugged beauty of the Old West.
E Allen St
76.9 km
Step back into the Wild West on Tombstone's historic Allen Street, where legends and history come alive.
Wyatt Earp’s Oriental Saloon & Theater
76.9 km
Experience the Wild West at Wyatt Earp's Oriental Saloon & Theater in Tombstone: Gunfights, live music, and a taste of history await!
Boothill Graveyard
77.0 km
Discover the history of the Wild West at Boothill Graveyard in Tombstone, Arizona, where legendary figures rest in peace.
Ed Schieffelin Monument
79.4 km
Visit the final resting place of Tombstone's founder and discover the rich mining history of the Old West in the scenic Arizona desert.
The Bisbee B
82.7 km
A symbol of Bisbee's enduring spirit, the iconic 'B' on Chihuahua Hill represents community pride and a rich mining history.
Rose's Place, Guest House
82.7 km
Experience Bisbee's charm at Rose's Place: A historic guest house in Brewery Gulch, offering comfort and easy access to local attractions.
The Shady Dell
82.7 km
Experience retro charm at The Shady Dell in Bisbee, AZ: beautifully restored vintage trailers offering a unique and nostalgic getaway.
Abandoned Pool Snooker Joker Pool Libations
82.8 km
Step back in time at Bisbee's Abandoned Pool Snooker Joker Pool Libations, a relic of the town's vibrant past on Erie Street.
Greenway Manor
82.8 km
Experience Bisbee's history with a rock 'n' roll twist at Greenway Manor, a unique bed and breakfast in a beautifully preserved 1906 manor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Heart of Rocks Loop
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Heart of Rocks Loop in Willcox, Arizona, a hiking paradise with stunning rock formations and vibrant desert scenery.
Duck on a Rock
0.4 km
Explore Duck on a Rock, a unique tourist attraction in Arizona with stunning scenery and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Balanced Rock Trail
0.6 km
Hike through a wonderland of rocks on the Balanced Rock Trail near Willcox, Arizona, and witness nature's artistry etched in stone.
Inspiration Point
1.2 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Arizona's wilderness at Inspiration Point, a premier hiking destination with breathtaking views.
Sarah Deming Trailhead
1.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sarah Deming Trailhead in Willcox, Arizona, an ideal hiking area for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Ed Riggs Trail
1.5 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking experience at Ed Riggs Trail in Willcox, Arizona, a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
Echo Canyon Trail
1.7 km
Hike through a geological wonderland of towering rock formations and hidden grottoes in Arizona's Chiricahua National Monument.
Massai Point
1.8 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views and explore the unique rock formations at Massai Point in Chiricahua National Monument.
Echo Canyon Trailhead
2.0 km
Explore the scenic trails of Echo Canyon Trailhead in Arizona, a hiker's paradise with stunning views and diverse landscapes perfect for outdoor adventures.
Sugarloaf Mountain Trail
2.4 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and invigorating adventures that await you on the Sugarloaf Mountain Trail in Willcox, Arizona.
Chiricahua National Monument
2.7 km
Discover the majestic landscapes and rich history of Chiricahua National Monument, a hiking paradise in Arizona's stunning wilderness.
Chiricahua National Monument Visitor Center
3.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations at the Chiricahua National Monument Visitor Center in Arizona.
Bonita Canyon Campground
3.7 km
Explore the beauty of Bonita Canyon Campground in Willcox, AZ, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers with stunning scenery and outdoor activities.
Bonita Creek Trail
5.3 km
Discover Bonita Creek Trail: A peaceful hiking haven in Fort Grant, Arizona, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Bonita Creek Loop Trail
6.1 km
Discover the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife at Bonita Creek Loop Trail, a hiking haven in the heart of Arizona's natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Godfather's Pizza Express
68.1 km
Savor the flavors of Italy at Godfather's Pizza Express - where delicious pizza meets warm hospitality in Lordsburg.
The Thirsty Lizard Bar + Grill + Events
76.8 km
Discover great food, local brews, and vibrant events at The Thirsty Lizard Bar + Grill + Events in McNeal - perfect for tourists seeking authentic experiences.
Dot’s Diner
82.7 km
Experience authentic American comfort food in Bisbee at Dot’s Diner - where every meal tells a story.
Bisbee Breakfast Club
82.8 km
Discover delightful breakfasts at Bisbee Breakfast Club - where hearty meals meet a cozy atmosphere in historic Bisbee.
The Feedlot Diner
83.1 km
Experience delicious comfort food at The Feedlot Diner in Bisbee, AZ – where every meal is crafted with care and passion.
Mornings Cafe
83.1 km
Discover the charm of Mornings Cafe in Bisbee - where delicious breakfasts meet warm hospitality.
The Copper Pig
83.1 km
Discover delightful dishes at The Copper Pig in Bisbee—a culinary gem blending local flavors with artistic charm.
Lazy KJ Ranch BBQ
83.1 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Lazy KJ Ranch BBQ in Bisbee, AZ - where flavor meets hospitality.
Bisbee's Table
83.2 km
Discover the exquisite New American cuisine at Bisbee's Table, where local flavors meet culinary creativity in charming Bisbee, Arizona.
The Grass Stop Smoothie Bar
83.2 km
Discover refreshing smoothies and healthy breakfast delights at The Grass Stop Smoothie Bar in charming Bisbee, Arizona.
Bisbee Coffee Company Cafe & Roasters
83.2 km
Experience artisanal coffee at its finest at Bisbee Coffee Company Cafe & Roasters in Arizona's charming town of Bisbee.
Poco Restaurant + Market
83.2 km
Experience vibrant vegan cuisine at Poco Restaurant + Market in Bisbee, where fresh ingredients meet local flavors in a charming setting.
Le Cornucopia Café
83.2 km
Discover Le Cornucopia Café in Bisbee: A cozy restaurant offering delectable deli delights and artisanal coffee amidst charming local vibes.
Cafe Roka
83.3 km
Experience the best of modern European cuisine at Cafe Roka in Bisbee – where innovation meets tradition in every bite.
BisbeeGoodCakes
83.3 km
Discover delightful treats at Bisbee Good Cakes - your go-to bakery and coffee shop in the heart of Arizona's historic Bisbee.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Portal Peak Lodge Store & Cafe
19.2 km
Experience the warmth of Southwestern flavors and local treasures at Portal Peak Lodge Store & Cafe in the heart of Arizona's breathtaking landscapes.
Tom's Bird Feeders & Reptile Supplies
22.3 km
Explore Tom's Bird Feeders & Reptile Supplies for the best in bird feeding and reptile care in San Simon, Arizona.
Mustang Mall
37.2 km
Explore Mustang Mall in Pearce, Arizona for unique finds and essential supplies, all in a charming shopping environment.
Tara Things
39.9 km
Discover the essence of local craftsmanship at Tara Things, a unique craft store filled with handmade treasures and artistic creations.
Bonita Bean Co
42.2 km
Explore Bonita Bean Co in Willcox, Arizona, for high-quality beans and local produce at great prices, embodying the region's agricultural heritage.
Elfrida Emporium
42.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at Elfrida Emporium, the ultimate gift shop celebrating local artistry in the heart of Elfrida.
D K Prickly Pear Emporium
48.2 km
Explore the unique offerings of D K Prickly Pear Emporium, where local artistry meets Southwest charm in Pearce, Arizona.
REYNAS CHAPARRAL LLC
54.0 km
Explore the rich offerings of Reynas Chaparral LLC in Cochise, Arizona, where nature's healing powers meet artisanal craftsmanship in herbal goods and candles.
Amarillo by Morning
55.9 km
Explore Amarillo by Morning: a charming boutique in Willcox, AZ offering unique western apparel and fashion accessories for every style.
Buffalo Sisters Trading Post
55.9 km
Discover unique antiques, collectibles, and Native American crafts at Buffalo Sisters Trading Post in Willcox, Arizona, an essential stop for every traveler.
Starlet Boutique
55.9 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Starlet Boutique in Willcox, AZ, where style meets local charm in a delightful shopping experience.
The Friendly Bookstore
56.0 km
Discover a charming literary haven at The Friendly Bookstore in Willcox, AZ, where readers find their next favorite book amidst a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Willcox Traders
56.1 km
Discover hidden treasures and vintage gems at Willcox Traders, Arizona's charming antique store for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Apple Annie's Country Store
57.9 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Arizona at Apple Annie's Country Store, a charming farm shop and bakery in Willcox, perfect for lunch and unique gifts.
Holiday Arts
69.2 km
Discover unique Native American crafts and art at Holiday Arts, where culture and creativity come together in a vibrant shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Boot Ranch LLC
15.4 km
Experience the essence of the American West at Bar Boot Ranch LLC in Pearce, Arizona, where rustic charm meets breathtaking landscapes.
DreamCatcher Inn at Chiricahua
19.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Chiricahua Mountains at DreamCatcher Inn, a cozy bed & breakfast offering a perfect blend of comfort and nature.
Sonoran Wines / Vineyards
20.0 km
Experience the beauty of Arizona's wine country at Sonoran Wines, where exquisite wines and stunning vineyard landscapes await.
Tirrito Farm
43.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of American cuisine at Tirrito Farm, a unique dining experience featuring farm-fresh ingredients and local craft brews in Willcox, AZ.
Big Tex BBQ
55.9 km
Discover the authentic taste of southern barbecue at Big Tex BBQ in Willcox, Arizona – a haven for food lovers seeking exceptional smoked meats.
Isabel's South of the Border
56.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico at Isabel's South of the Border in Willcox, Arizona - a culinary destination for every traveler.
Coronado Vineyards
56.0 km
Experience the beauty of Coronado Vineyards, where exquisite wines meet charming dining and breathtaking Arizona landscapes.
The Gadsden Hotel
75.4 km
Discover the elegance of the past at The Gadsden Hotel, a historic landmark in Douglas, Arizona, offering rich history and modern comforts.
Gene’s Place
83.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bisbee at Gene’s Place, a local bar offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Hitching Post Saloon
83.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local charm of the Hitching Post Saloon in Bisbee, Arizona, a must-visit bar with a rich history.
Bisbee Social Club
83.4 km
Discover the hidden charm of Bisbee Social Club, a unique underground bar offering a vibrant atmosphere and exceptional drink selection in Bisbee, AZ.
Chiricahua Community Health Center
83.5 km
Explore health and wellness at Chiricahua Community Health Center, a cornerstone of community care in Bisbee, Arizona.
Pages Palace
91.9 km
Discover the historical charm and vibrant atmosphere at Pages Palace in Benson, Arizona, where every visit is a new experience.
Benson City Grille
91.9 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Benson City Grille in Benson, Arizona, where every meal is crafted with care and local flavors.
The Horseshoe
92.0 km
Discover the flavors of Benson at The Horseshoe, where delicious local cuisine meets warm hospitality in a charming atmosphere.
