Posted in Arizona Nature July 17, 2021 by

Arizona’s Newest Dark Sky Park, Chiricahua National Monument, Is Dazzling Both Day And Night

Considering Arizona’s vast swaths of wilderness, it should come as no surprise that our state is home to more International Dark Sky Parks than anywhere else in the world. Chiricahua National Monument has recently been added to the ranks, and the 12,000-acre desert oasis is dazzling both day and night. See for yourself:

Arizona's newest International Dark sky Park, Chiricahua National Monument was added to the ranks in May.
Chiricahua National Monument, E Bonita Canyon Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, USA
Facebook/Chiricahua National Monument
The Grand Canyon State is home to nine other IDA-certified Dark Sky Parks - more than anywhere else in the world!
While the park has long hosted stargazing events on a semi-regular basis, its new Dark Sky status will afford visitors even more opportunities to marvel at its dazzling night skies in all their glory.
Facebook/Chiricahua National Monument
With this many stars visible to the naked eye, just imagine what you could see using a telescope!
In case you aren't familiar with it, Chiricahua National Monument is a 12,000-acre park tucked away in the Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona.
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It's a prime example of the term "sky island," which refers to the distinctive geography of the American Sonoran and Chihuahuan Deserts in which isolated mountain ranges tower above surrounding lowlands.
The monument is characterized by the spindly rock formations, otherwise known as hoodoos, that dominate the landscape.
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Born out of erosion related to a volcanic eruption nearly 30 million years ago, the hoodoos tell stories of an ancient Arizona much different than the one we call home today.
Over 17 miles of day-use hiking trails, which vary in length and difficulty, meander through the rugged terrain, offering boundless adventure for all skill levels.
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If you prefer enjoying the sights from the comfort of your own vehicle, there's also a paved, eight-mile scenic drive.
Get an even longer look at the stars by extending your stay overnight at the park's Bonita Canyon Campground.
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Reservations can be made online, and the nightly rate is $20 per site (or $10 if you have an America the Beautiful - The National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Senior or Access Pass).
Address: East Bonita Canyon Road, Willcox, AZ 85643.
Google Maps
Visitor Center hours are 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. daily.

Visit the Chiricahua National Monument website or Facebook page to learn more.

Have you ever been to Chiricahua National Monument? If so, did you stay past sunset to see the stars? Tell us all about your experience in the comments, then check out our previous article for more dark skies in Arizona.

Address: Chiricahua National Monument, E Bonita Canyon Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, USA
Address: Chiricahua National Monument, E Bonita Canyon Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, USA