{"id":20325,"date":"2024-12-15T05:19:30","date_gmt":"2024-12-15T12:19:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mywalkabout.net\/?p=20325"},"modified":"2024-12-15T05:56:12","modified_gmt":"2024-12-15T12:56:12","slug":"chiricahua-national-monument","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mywalkabout.net\/?p=20325","title":{"rendered":"Chiricahua National Monument"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

2010 was the last time I was in Chiricahua<\/strong>, and it wasn’t pleasant. I had major health issues, and I ran into my first snake on the trail, which only added to my anxiety and stress. I knew that my return this time around would be more meaningful, carefree and adventurous. At least I hoped so…<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

I take an early morning<\/strong> drive out to the National Monument, and stop at the first hiking trail on the valley floor. I hope to see some coatimundi’s. The weather this Labor Day Sunday is perfect. After a bit I jump back into the truck and head to the top of the mountain range to take on a bigger trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The rock formations<\/strong> out here are otherworldly, formed by volcanoes and receeding oceans and lakes from a millenia ago. I dodge and squeeze through crevices and chasms, take in epic views and fascinating cloud formations. I even have a wild little fox follow me curiously for spell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

No snakes<\/strong> this time around as I make a five mile loop through these special mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n