Cochise Stronghold, Arizona, November 2012

 

 

Fall is a perfect time to visit Cochise Stronghold in southeast Arizona. Temps were in the 70's and perfect for hiking. Summer temps will be over 100.

This mountain range fortress was home and protection for the great Apache leader and his people.

  Our Sprinter fit nicely into the small sites. Each site had a paved picnic area, charcoal grill & fire pit. There is a vault toilet but no water or other services. The Coronado National Forest has done a fine job creating this primitive campground.

.The shade trees are all oaks with resident flocks of Acorn Woodpeckers, a very chatty group and well dressed in their formal attire.

This monument is a dedication to Cochise and the 5 mile trail named for him that goes up and over the range. It's a 10 mile round trip hike. There is also a history walk with kiosks of information about the Apache and early settlers and a nature walk with plant descriptions.

 Here we are at the divide at the top of the range. This is the 3-mile point from the campground. It's 2 miles down the west side so the trail is steeper. It's a wonderful day hike with incredible views of the ragged peaks.

The mountain range of Cochise Stronghold is called the Dragoons after the mounted Calvary.

The rocks take many shapes. Here are the Apaches on migration, men, women & children.

Here is the old man of the mountain. He always looks west waiting for the sun to set.

Here is Rockfeller Dome, like a great whale breaching the waves, it rises above the range. Can't see it? Then you'll have to go and see for yourself how powerful this place is. 

On our 2nd day hike we climbed the steep trail that rock climbers use to get to the base of Rockfeller Dome. The trail is rocky and takes some route finding. 

More rocks on the way to the big one.

 Rockfeller Dome eclipses the sun.

 Here we are at the base of Rockfeller. This is the end of the trail for us. From this point it is straight up. We could see the protection the rock climbers put in the rock that marks the climbing routes.

On the hike down 3 spiny lizards come out to sun. They are the guardians of sacred places.

Thanks for checking in with us. 'till next time.
Jackie, the hiking woman.