"The Great Escape: Chiricahua National... " a Chiricahua National Monument Travel Page by richiecdisc

Named after the most fierce branch of the Apache tribe, Chiricahua National Monument's signature pinnacles are a fitting reminder of their strong and proud namesakes who once roamed this for them sacred land. Physical beauty in nature instills spiritual feelings in men of all creeds and it's easy to see why the Chiricahua would have been drawn to these powerful, foreboding rock pillars. It was also an obvious choice in which to try and escape their capture by white settlers intent on colonizing the surroundings, with its maze like quality and high points perfect for spotting intruders from a great distance. But colonized it was and with the surrender by Geronimo, it was only a matter of time before the new immigrants forged their way of life and left their imprint. In fact, the National Monument has little to say about its Native American past and dwells more on Swedish settlers and rock spire formation. In time, even if this does not become a full fledged “Indian park,” it is likely more of its illustrious past will be better documented as well it should be. Even without such official validation it is nearly impossible to be here without feeling the spiritual presence of the Chiricahua. Sacred it remains.

Political debate aside, the volcanically formed spires provide an amazing place to commune with nature, whether it be on its twenty miles of hiking trails, driving the scenic Bonita Canyon Road, or enjoying its tranquilly pretty campground.