Summary
The forest is named after the Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, who explored the region in the 16th century.
There are many reasons to visit Coronado National Forest, including its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and recreational opportunities. Visitors can hike, bike, camp, fish, and horseback ride through the forest. The forest is also home to several historic sites, including the Fort Bowie National Historic Site and the Chiricahua National Monument.
One of the most popular attractions in the Coronado National Forest is the Santa Catalina Mountains, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike or take a scenic drive through the mountains to see breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Other points of interest in the Coronado National Forest include the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, the Miller Peak Wilderness, and the Saguaro National Park. The forest is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, elk, and deer.
The best time of year to visit Coronado National Forest depends on the activities you plan to do. The summer months can be hot and dry, but are ideal for hiking and camping. The fall months offer cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, while the winter months provide opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing. Spring is the best time to see wildflowers in bloom.
Overall, the Coronado National Forest offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and history of southeastern Arizona.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References