Cochise Stronghold

 

I’ve always wanted to hike this and finally had the opportunity. Cochise Stronghold is about 1 hour from Tucson and well worth the drive. This is an out and back hike which makes for a long day hike. Guide books have it at 4.5 miles one way but it is longer. From where I parked my car, my GPS put the round trip at 12 miles. The entire hike I didn’t see one person. Great for some solitude, not so great if you have an accident and need help.

Be prepared with plenty of water.  The hike is relatively easy except for the length and heat of day.  Trail conditions are great and route finding easy. The trail is flanked by unique rock formations.  The entire way all I can think of was Cochise and the Apache Indians using this area as a hide out.

About half way you top out at Stronghold Divide.  The trail continues on down hill to East Stronghold Canyon Road.  I continued down for a long out and back.  You can easily turn back at the Pass for a shorter trip.

Directions: Take rt 10 east toward Benson and onto Cochise. Follow sign to Pearce then to Sunsite. Take Ironwood rd, forest rd 84 for about 12 miles to the Stronghold campground.