Cochise, Arizona · 4.0 · 5 reviews
Hike the Sky Islands Traverse with confidence by using the HiiKER toolkit to help you before your hike and during your hike with the HiiKER app.
Embarking on the Sky Islands Traverse, hikers will journey approximately 840 kilometers (about 522 miles) through the diverse and scenic landscapes of southeastern Arizona. With an elevation gain of around 33,900 meters (approximately 111,200 feet), this point-to-point trail begins near the historic town of Cochise, Arizona, and weaves through a series of mountain ranges known as the Sky Islands.
The Sky Islands are unique high-elevation environments surrounded by desert or grasslands, creating isolated habitats that harbor a rich diversity of plant and animal life. As you traverse these ranges, you'll encounter ecosystems that range from desert scrub to pine-oak woodlands and even Douglas fir forests at the highest elevations.
Starting near Cochise, hikers can reach the trailhead by driving from Tucson or by taking public transportation to a nearby town and arranging a shuttle or taxi service to the starting point. The trailhead is a gateway to a network of paths that will lead you through the Chiricahua, Huachuca, Santa Rita, and Rincon Mountains, among others.
The first segment of the trail introduces you to the Chiricahua Mountains, where you'll ascend through a landscape shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The Chiricahuas are famous for their rock pinnacles and spires, particularly in the Chiricahua National Monument, which you'll pass through early in your hike.
As you continue, the Huachuca Mountains offer a mix of canyons and peaks, with the historic town of Sierra Vista serving as a potential resupply point. This area is steeped in the history of the American West, with old mining towns and remnants of military outposts dotting the landscape.
The Santa Rita Mountains feature the highest peak in the range, Mount Wrightson, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding desert. The trail then leads you through the Rincon Mountains and Saguaro National Park East, where the iconic saguaro cacti stand tall against the sky.
Wildlife is abundant throughout the Sky Islands, with chances to spot species such as the elegant trogon, black bear, and the elusive jaguar. Birdwatchers will be particularly enthralled, as the region is a hotspot for migratory and resident birds.
The trail concludes in the northern Sky Islands, where you'll descend from the alpine forests back into the desert environment. Throughout the journey, water sources can be scarce, and hikers must plan accordingly, using tools like HiiKER to locate springs and water caches.
The Sky Islands Traverse is a medium-difficulty hike that requires preparation and respect for the changing climates and terrains. Hikers should be equipped with detailed maps, a reliable GPS device, and the knowledge to navigate through remote and rugged areas. The best times to hike are spring and fall when temperatures are milder, and water is more readily available.
This trail is not just a physical journey but a passage through time, offering insights into the geological and cultural history of the American Southwest. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, the Sky Islands Traverse is a rewarding expedition for those seeking to explore the heart of Arizona's wilderness.
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