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Echo Canyon Trail: A Wonderland of Rocks

Hike through a geological wonderland of towering rock formations and hidden grottoes in Arizona's Chiricahua National Monument.

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Echo Canyon Trail, located in Chiricahua National Monument near Willcox, Arizona, offers hikers a unique journey through a landscape of towering rock formations and hidden grottoes. This moderately challenging trail, engineered by the Civilian Conservation Corps, descends into a canyon filled with unusual stones and diverse plant life, providing an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Echo Canyon Trail

  • Echo Cyn Trl, Willcox, Arizona, 85643, US

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, as there is no water available at the trailhead.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to the uneven and rocky terrain.
  • Consider hiking the loop counterclockwise for better views and a less strenuous climb.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions, as summer can bring high temperatures and monsoon rains, while winter may bring icy conditions.
  • Check the Chiricahua National Monument website for any alerts and closures before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Willcox, Arizona, drive southeast on AZ-186 for approximately 34 miles. AZ-186 becomes Bonita Canyon Drive as it enters Chiricahua National Monument. Continue on Bonita Canyon Drive for about 7 miles, following signs for Echo Canyon. Turn right into the Echo Canyon parking lot. Parking is free, but the lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Consider parking at Massai Point if the Echo Canyon lot is full.

  • Shuttle

    During certain times of the year, a free shuttle service operates within Chiricahua National Monument. Check the National Park Service website for the current schedule and route. The shuttle can transport you from the visitor center to the Echo Canyon Trailhead, allowing for a downhill hike back to your vehicle.

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Discover more about Echo Canyon Trail

Echo Canyon Trail is a premier hiking destination within Chiricahua National Monument, a geological wonderland located approximately 35 miles southeast of Willcox, Arizona. The trail descends 400 feet into a canyon, showcasing the park's famous towering rock formations, or hoodoos, and unique tunnel-like grottoes. The trail is known for its diverse geological features, including spires, balanced rocks, and arches. A popular spot along the trail is the "Grottoes," a playground of interconnected arches carved out of the rock by centuries of wind and weather. Another notable area is "Wall Street," where sheer walls rise on either side of the trail, creating a narrow passage through the rock formations. The Echo Canyon Loop combines the Echo Canyon, Hailstone, and Ed Riggs Trails, forming a 3.4-mile triangular loop. The Hailstone Trail offers sweeping views of the Wonderland of Rocks, while the Ed Riggs Trail climbs back up to the Echo Canyon parking area. The trail is home to a variety of plant life, including desert yucca, agave, and cactus. While the trail is open year-round, hikers should be prepared for varying weather conditions. Summer can bring high temperatures, sun exposure, and monsoon rains, while winter may bring icy conditions.

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