Top 3 Things to do When Visiting the Coronado National Forest!
Stretching across 1.7 million acres of canyons, hills, mountains, and diverse ecosystems, Coronado National Forest is one of Southern Arizona's most incredible outdoor destinations. Rich in wildlife, history, and adventure, it's a place that offers something for everyone. If you're planning a visit, here are the top 3 things to do in the area!
3.) The Visitor Center
Before heading into the forest, stop by the Visitor Center in Hereford, Arizona. It's much more than a place to grab a map. Inside, you'll find interactive exhibits, a bookstore, historical artifacts such as native flutes and hand-woven baskets, and guides to local wildlife.
In fifth grade, I went on a field trip here. I vividly remember trying on real chainmail, learning about the Coronado Expedition, and discovering facts about the area's plants and animals that have stuck with me ever since. For first-time visitors, it's the perfect introduction to the forest's history and ecology.
READ: Why The Petrified Forest Is A Gem Of Arizona’s History
2.) Coronado Cave
Coronado Cave is my favorite part of the forest, and I try to visit at least once a year. The trailhead is just a quarter-mile from the visitor center, and the cave itself is only a half-mile hike from the parking lot. The hike is steep, and it requires climbing down a steep slope to enter, so it might not be cut out for everyone.
The Coronado Cave is a completely underdeveloped cave, meaning it is relatively small and has not had time to develop any complex caverns or rock structures. However, it is home to bats, limestone, and other inhabitants. Make sure to bring sanitized, clean hiking gear with you on this adventure, and avoid doing anything that might harm the cave!
RELATED: Why Bats Are Key To Arizona's Ecosystem Health
1.) Hiking!
It goes without saying that one of the best things you can experience in this forest is the hiking trails! There are over 1000 miles of hiking trails from the border to Mount Lemmon. These hikes range from easy washes to steep and narrow trails winding up the mountains for miles.
My favorite trails are near Carr Canyon and Ramsey Canyon, where streams and a beautiful waterfall can be reached with minimal strain. If you're closer to Tucson, trails near Sabino Canyon, Seven Falls, and Bog Springs offer equally impressive scenery and memorable hikes.
Whether you love national forests, have never visited one, want to explore a cave on your own, like hiking, or want to learn more about local history, the Coronado National Forest is packed with unforgettable experiences. It's one of those places that keeps drawing visitors back, and once you visit, you'll quickly understand why.\
CONTINUE READING: The Spanish Explorer Who Reached The Grand Canyon And Found Nothing
Watch Flynn Hikes Video on The Coronado National Forest Here!
Top 10 National Parks in Arizona
15 of the Best Places to Discover History in Arizona
Gallery Credit: Val Davidson
More From KWCD Country
