Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Cave Creek Canyon, located within the Chiricahua Mountains in southeastern Arizona, is a part of the Coronado National Forest. It stands out as one of the most biologically rich and geologically diverse areas in the region. Known as the 'Yosemite of Arizona,' its towering cliffs and lush riparian areas attract outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Historically, the canyon has been inhabited by the Apache people and played a role during the Apache Wars in the 19th century. Today, it offers a variety of recreational opportunities, from birding—it's famed for the trogon among other species—to hiking and rock climbing. The canyon is also notable for its sheer cliff faces, diverse ecosystems ranging from oak and sycamore woodlands to ponderosa pine forests, and the clear waters of Cave Creek itself. Visitors are often rewarded with views of unique rock formations such as rhyolite tuff and sightings of rare wildlife.
