Overview
Coronado National Forest is located in southeastern Arizona and extends into parts of southwestern New Mexico. It covers nearly 1.78 million acres and is known for its diverse ecosystems that range from desert lowlands to mountainous pine forests. It is named after the Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado and is renowned for its "Sky Islands," isolated mountain ranges surrounded by desert.
Unique Ecosystems
The forest features a variety of habitats, including desert grasslands, oak woodlands, and high elevation conifer forests. These ecosystems support numerous species of wildlife, such as black bears, mountain lions, and endangered species like the Chiricahua leopard frog. The varied terrain makes Coronado National Forest a biodiversity hotspot in the American Southwest.
Recreational Opportunities
Visitors to Coronado National Forest can enjoy hiking, camping, bird watching, and horseback riding. Popular trails include those in the Santa Catalina and Santa Rita Mountains. The forest also offers opportunities for rock climbing, scenic driving, and winter skiing at some of its higher elevation spots.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The forest contains numerous archaeological and historic sites from Native American tribes such as the Apache and the Hohokam. Visitors can explore petroglyphs, ancient dwellings, and old mining operations that tell the story of the region's rich cultural heritage.
Conservation Efforts
The Coronado National Forest is actively managed to balance recreational use, resource protection, and preservation of wildlife habitats. Conservation programs focus on protecting endangered species, restoring native vegetation, and mitigating wildfire risks through controlled burns and community education initiatives.
Last updated: Fri Jun 6, 2025
