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 Reporter |
Summary: This is a great hike that will lead you through the heart of the Chiricahua Mountains. The hike starts out on the Mormon Ridge trail and follows it to its end, which is at the intersection with the Crest Trail. Follow the Crest Trail north to Chiricahua Saddle, then head on up to Chiricahua Peak summit via the Chiricahua Peak trail. After you've enjoyed your stay on the summit, head back down the way you came up following the Crest trail south towards Monte Vista Peak. The section of the Crest trail between Chiricahua Peak and Monte Vista Peak can be rough going at times and difficult to follow due to all off the downed trees from a recent (94') fire. At the top of Monte Vista Peak you will find a still functional lookout tower. Head back down, the way you came up, for another 0.5 miles to Turtle Mountain Trail and follow it west to Morse Canyon. Follow Morse Canyon for about 2.5 miles to Turkey Creek Road. Your car is parked about one mile further on down the road. Trailhead: From Tucson, follow I-10 east for about 60 miles to Texas Canyon, exit onto Dragoon Road. Follow Dragoon Road for about 13 miles to AZ 191. Turn right on 191 and follow it for about 18 miles to AZ 181. Follow 181 east for about 12 miles to Turkey Creek Road. Follow Turkey Creek Road for 10 miles until you come to a sign marking the Mormon Ridge Trail #269. The parking lot is located just off the road and the trailhead is located next to the parking location. (Lat:31.86329 Lon:-109.33875) Trail Guides for Chiricahua Peak to Monte Vista Peak Loop: Hiking Arizona by Bruce Grubbs and Stewart Aitchision (The Globe Pequot Press) Exploring Arizonas Wild Areas by Scott S. Warren (The Mountaineers) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Douglas Ranger District, Coronado National Forest Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Rob Brinkerhoff, who has posted 33 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by AAR on 11/10/2005 An extremely beautiful hike that is difficult rather than moderate unless you are having one of those rare days when your legs never seem to lose their springiness. The section of trail between Chiricahua Peak and Monte Vista Peak is clear and easy to follow now. If you really want to blow your legs up (or have knees that can't take a steep downhill), reverse the loop and go up the Morse Canyon trail first. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Arizona Hiking, Arizona Trails, Arizona Hikes, Cochise County Hiking, Cochise County Trails, Cochise County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||