Roam the Sky Islands of Cochise County, Arizona
Cochise Southern County
Start / End
Tucson, Arizona
States Covered
National Parks
Chiricahua National Monument, Coronado National Memorial
Total Distance
275 miles (443 km)
Suggested Days
3–5
Suggested Seasons
Year-round
#ThisIsMyRoute
Overview
The Sky Island region of southeastern Arizona is a special place. Punctuated by intermittent mountains rising thousands of feet up out of the desert “sea,†each Sky Island is awash in unexpected biodiversity. It’s here that the five unique communities of Cochise County call home—each with a personality as independent and interesting as their surrounding geography. Spend a week exploring what each has to offer. Take in the sights from the mile-high Chiricahua National Monument, and tour limestone caverns beneath the ground at Kartchner Caverns. Go wine tasting in Willcox, and sip craft beer in Bisbee. We include it all, from outdoor activities to delicious treats to bring you the best of Cochise County.Â
Preparation
Thanks to the diverse landscape of this part of the American Southwest, it is a great place to visit year-round. Escape midsummer heat by traveling to Cochise County’s higher elevations, or stay on the desert floor with birding and wine tasting in the winter. No matter when you visit, it is always a good idea to pack layers and extra water. Depending on your plans, you may also want to consider bringing a 4WD vehicle along for the ride, as many of Cochise County’s best adventures involve dirt roads. Last but not least, don’t forget your camera!
Itinerary
BENSON
41 MINUTES – 42 MILES / 67.5 KM
On your first day, fly into Tucson (TUS). Picking up an on-site rental car is a breeze, and before you know it you’ll be on the road! Journey to the community of Benson, a small town with a lot to do. Start with Kartchner Caverns State Park, widely recognized as one of the world’s most visually stunning caverns. Their history is as fascinating as the Rotunda-Throne Room itself, the grand finale on your guided tour. Afterwards, re-adjust your eyes to the sunshine and go for a self-guided mural walk in downtown Benson. You’ll spot vivid artwork of wild horses, chugging trains, and so much more—there is even a huge rendition of Kartchner Caverns on one building!Â
Afterwards, you might be more than ready for a snack! Satisfy your craving at Wild Dogs, where you can find gourmet hot dogs of all kinds. (There are lots of other places to eat, too.) That night, get some rest for the week ahead at one of Benson’s many lodging options.Â
WILLCOX
35 MINUTES – 37 MILES / 59.5 KM
Get started early on day two. You’ll be traveling all the way to one of the most loved features of the Sky Islands—Chiricahua National Monument! On the way there, stop at Amerind Museum, a living research center with a tremendous collection of artwork and jewelry from cultures all over the Americas. After you’ve browsed the exhibits, enjoy a picnic beneath the mesquite trees or at their newly opened pond area.
Then, journey onwards to Chiricahua National Monument. Described as a “Wonderland of Rocks,†this is the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring. Drive the seven-mile scenic route or opt for a hike. Keep an eye out for wildlife that call this area home, from curious black bears to charismatic turkeys.Â
That afternoon, return to Willcox to enjoy sampling the region’s award-winning wines. Try the family-owned and operated Bodega Pierce, where their easy-going atmosphere pairs well with a sunset over the Chiricahuas in the distance. That evening, kick back at the Arizona Sunset Inn; a remodeled motel with a boutique vibe.