Thing to Do

Bonita Canyon Drive

Chiricahua National Monument

car drives a two lane road with trees on both sides and rocks towering above
Rock formations tower overhead along much of the scenic drive.

NPS

This 8-mile paved drive winds up the valley through rock formations, oak, cypress, and pine forests, to Massai Point. Massai Point overlook has a 360-degree view of the Wonderland of Rocks and the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Stops on the drive include the Erickson Cemetery, Faraway Ranch, the park Visitor Center and store, Bonita Canyon Campground, Massai Point, and the turn off for Echo Canyon and Sugarloaf trailheads. 

There are several pull outs to view rocks along the road as you come back down.

Please follow the speed limit and watch for animals.
Details
From the entrance to the end of the road is 8 miles. Speed limit 25 to 40 miles per hour. Without stops it generally takes about 30 minutes to get to the top. Stops are best made at Massai Point and on the return journey down the drive.
Activity
Scenic Driving
Pets Allowed
Yes
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
The vehicle length limit for the scenic drive past the Visitor Center is 24 feet.

Unhook all trailers at the Faraway Ranch Parking Lot.

Occasionally, the scenic drive is closed past the campground if there are inclement weather conditions or road hazards. Check our alerts for any closures.

Chiricahua National Monument

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Scenic Drive Highlights

several large, jagged upright rocks stand in front of valley of pinnacle rocks with trees and sky
Massai Point is Beautiful and Historic

Eight miles of amazing geology culminate at Massai Point with a nature trail, picnic tables, and exhibits. On the road see the sites below!

Brown and white sign in a rock structure, road, mountain and entrance booth behind
Scenery Begins Right at the Entrance

Welcome to the park. The entrance booth is often unmanned today because we don't charge a fee. Check for important info in the window.

sign about settlers in front of black fence and grave stones under tree
Erickson Cemetery is a Quick Right Turn

Briefly learn about the Europeans who called this area home.

paved parking area in front of trees, picnic table, and mountain
Next Stop: Bonita Creek on the Left

This is often the best place for birding in the park. Bonita Creek trail is ADA accessible with picnic tables and a pit toilet.

truck and trailer blocking entrance to parking lot, 4 cars and trees in background
Disconnect Trailers at Faraway Ranch

There is no trailer or large RV turnaround after Faraway. Day users must disconnect trailers before proceeding. RVs over 29 feet stop here.

gravel path with dry grass leads to trees and outbuild
Stroll Faraway Ranch Historic District

Proprietors of this guest ranch so "awful far away from it all" brought the Wonderland of Rocks into public view. Stroll and read about it.

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Last updated: January 23, 2025