State Parks and National Parks

Coronado National Memorial

The Coronado National Memorial features wonderful birdwatching opportunities and outstanding views of the valleys through which Coronado led his band of explorers centuries ago.

East Montezuma Canyon Road bisects the memorial and leads to superb hiking trails and the 6,575-foot Montezuma Pass, which offers sweeping views of the San Pedro River Valley and San Rafael Valley.

Trails range from the easy, half-mile Coronado Peak Trail to the strenuous Crest Trail in the Huachucas Mountains. The Crest Trail is the only trail in the memorial to permit either horseback riding or pets.

The southern end of the 780-mile long Arizona Trail begins in the park.

To explore Coronado Cave bring at least one flashlight per person, or two if travelling alone, and obtain a free permit at the Visitor Center.

The memorial is known for its wide variety of birds. More than 140 species have been recorded here, including 50 resident birds.

A picnic area near the visitor center is open from dawn to dusk. There is camping in the adjacent Coronado National Forest to the west and north, and at Parker Canyon Lake, 18 miles west.

Mountain biking is allowed on roads only.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Coronado National Memorial. Photo by Henry Ruiz, courtesy of National Park Service. Photo by Fred Mang, Jr., courtesy of National Park Service.