Massai Point Panoramic Views - Chiricahua National Monument
Hi friends and happy Monday! This week we’re hiking a fascinating and easy trail inside Arizona’s Chiricahua National Monument, often referred to as the “Wonderland of Rocks”. Join me at one of my top things to do inside this unique southern AZ park, as we explore the panoramic views from Massai Point.
Massai Point Nature Trail in Chiricahua National Monument
Location
Situated in the Chiricahua Mountains in the southeast corner of Arizona, Chiricahua National Monument makes for a perfect day trip from Bisbee (about a 1.5 hour drive) or from Tucson (about 2 hours away). Massai Point is home to vast vistas, rich Chiricahua Apache history, and the crossroads of four diverse ecosystems atop one of the highest points in this incredible park. For hikers, this is the portal into "The Wonderland of Rocks,” providing access to a network of trails that will take you through this otherworldly terrain. Located at the end of Bonita Canyon Drive with a parking area big enough for a couple dozen vehicles, the Massai Plateau provides some of the most iconic views in Chiricahua National Monument. Visitors can enjoy 360º views of Rhyolite Canyon, Cochise Head, and the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Massai Point Viewpoint in Chiricahua National Monument
History
In 1932, the US Forest Service began constructing what they called “Bonita Canyon Highway,” which travelled up Bonita Canyon ending atop Massai Plateau. In 1934 Chiricahua National Monument shifted from USFS to the National Park Service, and the Dedication Ceremony took place at Massai Point.
The name “Massai Point” may be a bit of a misnomer, as early settlers in this area sometimes confused the Apache they encountered, and it’s believed this could be behind the naming of Massai Point.
Massai was a Chiricahua Apache man who, at one point, was a scout with Captain Emmet Crawford, who was killed in 1886 while tracking Geronimo. Sadly, despite his service with the US Army, Massai and his family were forcibly removed from their land and put on a train to Florida. However, it’s said he escaped by jumping off the train and settled in the nearby Mescal Mountains. He was then falsely accused of crimes he didn’t commit and was likely killed by local settlers or soldiers. For more more detailed information on the life of Massai and the history of this area, check out the official NPS website here.
Massai Point Exhibit Building in Chiricahua National Monument
Looking east into New Mexico from the Massai Point Exhibit Building
Hiking
For an easy stroll, a paved (wheelchair accessible) 0.25 mile trail at the end of the parking area leads up to the historic exhibit building, which is filled with detailed informative displays and awe-inspiring views. Heading back down past the parking area the Massai Point Trailhead connects to the junction with the Ed Riggs Trail in 0.3 miles. Then the trail forks to the Echo Canyon parking area or to the Heart of Rocks Loop. You can also hike the Inspiration Point Trail loop in 5.5 miles or the Heart of Rocks Loop in 7.5 miles, but for the most stunning yet easily accessible hoodoo rock formation views, I recommend the 0.5 mile Massai Point Nature Trail...continue reading below for more on this wonderful Chiricahua hike.
Massai Point Viewing Platform in Chiricahua National Monument
Looking west from Massai Point across the hoodoos of Chiricahua National Monument
Massai Point Nature Trail
This hike loops around Massai Point, and while it is short at just under half a mile and 50 feet in elevation change, the terrain is uneven and rough in areas. The Civilian Conservation Corps built many trails and structures here in the 1930s, and you’ll traverse some of the stone carved steps they laid here leading to incredible overlook views. The main highlight along this trail is Speaker’s Rock, a rustic amphitheater and platform built for the 1934 Dedication Ceremony. This stunning amphitheater was formed where a natural depression had unobstructed views of the Wonderland of Rocks to the southwest...boulders were cleared and a series of paths were constructed to a rock-walled seating area featuring cut stone seats, steps, and flagstone pavers with unparalleled hoodoo views. Along this trail you also encounter over a dozen interpretive panels filled with information on this area and its history.
Massai Point Viewing Platform in Chiricahua National Monument
Know Before You Go
• Check out my First-Timers Guide to Chiricahua National Monument for complete details on this incredible park.
• Please remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. Pack out everything you pack in and stay on the designated paths. If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip. Please help leave this special place better than you found it so its natural beauty can be enjoyed for years to come. Stay on the designated trails...shortcutting trails is prohibited. It is not safe for you and accelerates erosion.
• Roads and trails can close occasionally in Winter months due to snowy and icy conditions, so make sure check current conditions on the official NPS website here.
• You are entering a Wilderness Area. Black bears are present in the Chiricahua Mountains, so never leave food out or unattended, especially in your vehicle.
• Admission to the park is free and gates are open 24/7.
• This is a great location for stargazing and astrophotography. In fact, in 2021, the National Park Service and the International Dark Sky Association announced that Chiricahua National Monument would be named the 104th International Dark Sky Park.
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Hoodoos and pinnacles in Chiricahua National Monument during Winter
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining me this week inside Chiricahua National Monument. For a virtual visit of Massai Point and its iconic views, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video located at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Cochise Head Peak seen from the Massai Point Exhibit Building
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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What are the best spots for photography? Today I'm sharing my Top 10 Photo Spots in Chiricahua National Monument. Chiricahua has some of the most unique landscapes, rock formations, and wildlife found in southern Arizona. Whether you're looking for a great backdrop for a family picture or you're a pro photographer, this travel guide will help you find the beautiful views found in this epic park.