Heart of Rocks Loop Trail

The Heart of Rocks Loop Trail is located in the Chiricahua National Monument, also known as the “wonderland of rocks” due to the phenomenal volcanic rock formations that dominate the entire area. This 7-mile, sometimes-rocky trail has an elevation of 6,870' with a gain of about 1,500’, is considered moderate, and is kid-friendly. The Park is open to visitors and hikers all year long, from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Be sure to bring your camera for some amazing photography and if hiking in the summer months, bring plenty of water with you.

The Loop itself only takes about 30 minutes to complete, round trip. The rest of your hiking involves the connector loops that start at, and end at, the Visitor Center. This hike offers spectacular views of seemingly imbalanced rock formations, precariously perched pinnacles, and indescribable hoodoo spires. Some of the amazing views are Pinnacle Rock, Thor’s Hammer, Camel’s Head, Punch and Judy, Totem Pole, and the famous Big Balanced Rock, which will take your breath away with its beauty and mystery. Get those cameras ready.

Along with the awe-inspiring volcanic rock formations, you will also encounter more than one thousand types of plants, various cacti, colorful wildflowers, Englemann spruce trees, oak and pine trees, canyon wrens, playful coatimundi, cougars, black bears, and the occasional rattlesnake. And how about all those lichen-created intricate designs covering the amazing hoodoos? The Heart of Rocks Loop Trail simply offers some of the very best of what Mother Nature has to offer. This hike could take much longer than anticipated as you stop to marvel at the majestic beauty of this trail.