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Attractions - History & Nature |
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Cochise
Stronghold in the Dragoon Mountains attracts hikers, historians
and campers from around the world. Made famous by the Apache chief
Cochise who used this granite fortress as his defense position
against the United States Cavalry during the apache wars of the
1860’s, the stronghold is just 7 miles west of Morning Star
and is frankly, indescribable. |
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Its
oak trees, canyons, boulders, and history make it an incredible
place to explore, picnic, or camp. You just have to see it to understand
its size and beauty. When chief Cochise died he was secretly buried
in his beloved stronghold. Here
is a link for more information on Cochise and one of his famous
sub chiefs Geronimo. For information on the apache wars click
here. |
  
The
entire area is also loaded with signs of prehistoric Indians that
populated the valley and mountains prior to the apaches. Among
other things you’ll find Indian kitchens with matates (shown
above) where they would grind various grains and beans.
 
The
south end of the Dragoons is dotted with the ruins of a by-gone
era of gold and silver mining. From old Pearce, where the general
store, post office, and a one celled jail still stand, you’ll
head south along the Ghost Town Trail passing many adobe ruins,
the old two cell jail of Courtland, and then the Saloon and high
school ruins of Gleason. Ghost town trail finally ends in the
town to tough to die, Tombstone.
This is a great day trip.
 
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Old
Pearce |
Dragoon
Springs Station |
At
the north end of the Dragoons a short drive off the pavement will
land you at the ruins of the Dragoon Springs Station, one of the
Butterfield Overland stage line stations. You’ll find several
graves here including 3 confederate solders that were attacked
by apache warriors on May 5th 1862. |
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| Just
1.5 miles south you'll find the Shadow
Mountain Golf Course in the heart of Pearce-Sunsites, a beautiful
18-hole public golf course. |
| Across
the valley, about an hour drive, you will discover the
National Monument in the Chiricahua
Wilderness Area, a must see. On the way you’ll pass through
some of the largest and most beautiful private ranches in the country.
Just up the road from the monument you’ll find many breathtaking
camping areas including Rustler’s Park at over 8000 feet elevation.
Rustler’s Park is one of Arizona’s famous “sky
islands” with numerous hiking trails and camping spots amongst
the Aspen, Blue Spruce and Ponderosa Pine trees. Its proximity and
cool temperatures make this a favorite get away among the locals.
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Rustler's Park |
| The
east side of the Sulphur Springs Valley is quickly becoming home
to many new wine vineyards. From Syrah to Zinfandel to Sangiovese,
the soils and climate are ideal. |
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Treat
yourself to horseback riding, bicycling, hiking, ATV riding, exploring,
photography, or a myriad of other outdoor activities that fit
with our 340 beautiful days of sunshine, mild climate, and miles
of open space.
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Oh,
did we mention the wildlife?
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