Bonita Canyon, Canyon in Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona, United States
Bonita Canyon is a narrow gorge with volcanic rock walls in the Chiricahua Mountains at about 5,400 feet elevation. The canyon cuts through the western side of the range and holds a creek that flows year-round.
European settlers arrived in the 1880s and built a historic ranch in the canyon that you can still visit today. This property shows what early life was like for people trying to make a living in this remote mountain area.
Apache people lived in these mountains for generations and shaped the land through their presence and knowledge of its resources. The canyon remains a place where their historical connection to the landscape is still felt.
There is a campground here with sites for different vehicle sizes, and you can stay in a tent or RV. It helps to arrive early in the day and check local conditions since weather and road access can change.
A permanent creek runs through the narrow gorge, creating a green refuge in the dry mountains. This water draws large animals that are rarely seen, making the canyon special among its surrounding peaks.
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