Alerts & Conditions

Following guidance from the CDC in consultation with National Park Service Public Health Offices, Chiricahua National Monument has modified visitor services. Until further notice:

• The Visitor Center will remain closed through October 4, 2020. Park maps, hiking guides, and other information are available outside the Visitor Center.
• The Visitor Center will open on October 5, 2020. The VC will be open 7 days a week, 8:30-4:30.
• Bonita Canyon Drive, all trails, and all picnic areas remain open.
• Limited restroom facilities are available.
• Interpretive Park Ranger programs are suspended.
• Our Hiker Shuttle is suspended indefitely.
• The Campground will reopen on October 1, 2020. No other overnight use is allowed within the Monument.

The NPS urges visitors to do their part when visiting a park to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; wearing a cloth mask over your nose and mouth; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick.

The NPS Office of Public Health and the U.S. Public Health Service are closely monitoring the situation related to the outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19). For more information, please visit: https://www.nps.gov/coronavirus.

 

Rabies Warning:

 

A dramatic monsoon season storm develops in the valley to the west of the park.

Monsoon Season: June 15 - September 30

Officially, Chiricahua National Monument is in "monsoon season" from June 15 through September 30, and severe thunderstorms are possible. Though the season officially begins on June 15, often the park doesn't see its first seasonal storm until sometime in July. After then, it is common for thunderclouds to develop each day.

Some storms are severe and drop enough rain at once to cause flooding. Flash floods come quickly and can be dangerous.

Do not try to cross a flooded wash - often as quickly as the flood comes, it will dissipate as storms move across the landscape. Remember: Turn around, don't drown! Lightning can also pose a hazard this time of year. Time your activity to be indoors in the afternoon. If you are outside during a storm, find shelter. Lightning will often strike trees, so stay away and stay low if you get caught.