Big Loop in Chiricahua National Monument

Echo Canyon Trailhead Parking Lot
5.0
3 Reviews
Big Loop in Chiricahua National Monument
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Details

Distance
7.97 miles
Elevation Gain
1562 ft
Route Type
Loop

Features

Family Friendly
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Scenic
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About this place

Added by Sarah Levant

Combine the best trails in Chiricahua National Monument for spectacular views of their hoodoo and balancing rock formations. 

27 million years ago, a large volcanic eruption in the Chiricahua Mountains left behind volcanic ash which eroded into the hoodoos and balancing rocks at Chiricahua National Monument aka The Wonderland of Rocks. The rock formations are very similar to Bryce National Park and the best part...you will see about 25 times less people!

This trek is known as "The Big Loop" in Chiricahua National Monument. Begin at Echo Canyon Trailhead parking lot at the top of the park's eight mile scenic drive. This 8.3 mile RT hike will combine the best of Chiricahua scenery. 

Trail map here

Follow the trails listed below or create your own loop for a shorter or longer hike. Make sure not to miss the Heart of Rocks loop.

Start off on the Ed Riggs Trail  → to Mushroom Rock Trail → to Big Balanced Rock Trail → to Heart of Rocks Loop → to Sarah Deming Trail → to Upper Rhyolite Canyon Trail → to Echo Canyon Trail which will bring you right back to the Echo Canyon Trailhead parking lot. 

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Michelle Taylor
3/6/2025
Lots of cool hoodoos and nooks and crannies to explore. Would recommend the first part counter clockwise if you dont have the time to ...
Not Crowded
Amazing Views
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Lucas Bremer
Club
6/20/2020
Should be in the list for National Park Status
To me this park is much more scenic and is more grand than Pinnacles National Park.
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Jean-Claude Linossi
12/30/2017
Hikes in National Monuments
Very nice hike through some very stunning rock formations.
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