Unveiling the Secrets of Coronado National Forest: From History to Wilderness
Nestled in the southeastern reaches of Arizona and southwestern New Mexico, the Coronado National Forest spans approximately 1.78 million acres (7,200 km²) across the diverse mountain ranges of Cochise, Graham, Santa Cruz, Pima, and Pinal Counties in Arizona, and Hidalgo County in New Mexico.
Established in 1908, the Coronado National Forest evolved from the Santa Rita Forest Reserve, which was part of the U.S. Forest Service's early conservation efforts. One notable event in its recent history was the Sawmill Fire of 2017, which ravaged around 47,000 acres (19,000 ha) and was caused by an off-duty Border Patrol agent. The fire underscored the delicate balance of managing such vast lands.
In more recent developments, tensions arose in 2022 when the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs constructed a border wall on federal and tribal lands near Yuma without proper authorization. This led to a legal dispute with federal agencies, and Governor Doug Ducey’s administration sought to challenge the removal orders. As of January 2023, the State has agreed to dismantle the controversial barrier.
Administration and Ranger Districts
Coronado National Forest is divided into five ranger districts, each encompassing unique sky island mountain ranges:
Santa Catalina Ranger District: This area includes the Santa Catalina and Rincon Mountains, featuring Mount Lemmon, the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, and Sabino Canyon. Previously part of the Santa Catalina National Forest, it’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Safford Ranger District: Surrounding Safford, Arizona, this district covers the Pinaleño, Galiuro, Santa Teresa, Winchester, and Greasewood Mountains. It includes Mount Graham, once part of the Mount Graham National Forest, which merged into Coronado in 1953.
Nogales Ranger District: North and west of Nogales, this district includes the Santa Rita, Tumacacori, Pajarito, and San Luis Mountains. Key sites include Mount Hopkins and Madera Canyon. It absorbed the Santa Rita and Tumacacori National Forests early in the 20th century.
Douglas Ranger District: Located north and east of Douglas, Arizona, this district encompasses the Chiricahua, Dragoon, and Peloncillo Mountains, with part extending into New Mexico. It includes the Chiricahua, Dragoon, and Peloncillo National Forests.
Sierra Vista Ranger District: West of Sierra Vista, this district covers the Huachuca, Patagonia, and Whetstone Mountains, including Miller Peak and the Canelo Hills. It absorbed the Huachuca National Forest.
Coronado National Forest is home to eight designated wilderness areas spread across each ranger district. These protected spaces offer a refuge for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, camping, hunting, and fishing. However, mechanized and motorized equipment, including bicycles and chain saws, are strictly prohibited to preserve the natural integrity of these areas.
Discover the beauty and diversity of Coronado National Forest, where nature’s grandeur and historical depth converge to offer an unparalleled experience in the American Southwest.
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