Chiricahua National Monument

A spot on the map we thought we might explore. The road here didn't give us much hope. Wide open desert with cacti, agave, and little signs of animal life. 

The park is a pleasant surprise. We climbed a bit and there are a lot of trees. It's hard to believe that we are only about 40 miles from Mexico.

There are interesting rock formations that are the eroded remains of an ancient volcanic eruption. 

The bright green on the rock is lichen.

It's a fun place to climb.

There are many balancing rocks.

Jim and Ali tried to push this one over. Rock- 1, Jim & Ali- 0

This is called the grotto. Better than a playground.

The plant that looks like a Dr. Seuss truffela tree is agave.

Why take the path when you can climb?