Overview
There was no international border in 1540, but this valley in southern Arizona is where Francisco Vasquez de Coronado’s expedition crossed into the U.S.A. His Spanish army marched north in search of the Seven Cities of Cibola, discovering multiple pueblos (including Pecos) and establishing a route for missionaries to follow.
Highlights
Coronado Cave, Montezuma Pass, Coronado Peak
Must-Do Activity
The park does not actually contain a statue or large memorial to Coronado. It does have a steep three-quarter mile trail to a 600-foot long limestone cave bearing his name, which visitors can explore on their own with flashlights.
Best Trail
From the parking area at Montezuma Pass it is half a mile to Coronado Peak. This “sky island” at 6,864 feet in elevation offers excellent views north towards the Huachuca Mountains in the surrounding Coronado National Forest and south into Mexico. From there, Joe’s Canyon Trail leads 3 miles down to the visitor center and works great with a car shuttle.
Instagram-worthy Photo
The small but educational visitor center provides information on trails, the history of the Coronado expedition, wildlife, and the “I Hike for Health” program. Plus, you can dress up in replica Spanish Conquistador armor, which is very heavy.
Peak Season
Winter
Hours
https://www.nps.gov/coro/planyourvisit/hours.htm
Fees
None
Road Conditions
Paved to the visitor center and a good gravel road the final 2 miles up to Montezuma Pass.
Camping
Coronado National Forest surrounds the memorial’s 4,750 acres, offering both campgrounds and free dispersed camping.
Tiff at the entrance of Coronado Cave 
Inside Coronado Cave, which is dry now but has remnant flowstone features 
Tiff checking out a side channel 
Tiff, Scott, and Scott’s mother in Coronado Cave 
Entrance to Coronado Cave. Be sure to bring a backup flashlight and sturdy boots. 
Huachuca Mountains 
Tiff and Scott’s mother at the top of Coronado Peak looking towards Mexico 
Scott on Joe’s Canyon Trail
Explore More – Disillusioned by not finding the Seven Cities of Cibola, in which present-day state did the Coronado expedition turn around in 1541?
Raven About The Parks | Raven About The Forests 