CORONADO NATIONAL MEMORIAL — History mingles with natural beauty in this serene spot tucked between summits of the Huachuca Mountains and the Mexican border.
Coronado National Memorial south of Sierra Vista commemorates the 1540-42 expedition of explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado. Displays in the visitor center chronicle the expedition, which is believed to have passed near the site.
The surrounding 4,750 acres of canyons and hillsides are lushly wooded and teeming with wildlife.
After a quick history lesson at the visitor center, you might check out the terrain with a hike on one of the memorial's several trails.
One option is the 0.75-mile Cave Trail, which begins along a watercourse and later climbs moderately steep grades to an entrance to Coronado Cave.
Visitors are welcome to enter the cave — about 600 feet long, 70 feet wide and 20 feet high. The entrance to the cave involves descending some uneven terrain, but no ropes or other technical gear are required. It's essential, however, to bring water, sturdy shoes and at least one flashlight per person — two if you visit the cave alone.
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Get there
From Tucson, drive east on Interstate 10 to Benson and take the exit for Arizona 90. Follow Arizona 90 south to Sierra Vista and a junction with Arizona 92. Drive south on Arizona 92 about 14 miles to a signed right-hand turnoff for Coronado National Memorial. Continue about five miles to the visitor center and trailheads.
Admission is free. Visitor center hours are 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Caution
Memorial officials say visitors should be aware that smuggling and illegal-immigrant traffic are common in the area.