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- Chiricahua Peak
9,759 ft · Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona
Chiricahua Peak
Chiricahua Peak is a 9,759 ft peak in the Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona. The standard route is the Rustler Park via Crest Trail: 10 mi, 2,142 ft of gain, Class 1.
Chiricahua Peak at a glance
- Elevation9,759 ft2,974 m
- RouteRustler Park via Crest TrailClass 1
- Distance10 mi2,142 ft gain
- Time7 – 9 hrsHard effort
- SeasonApr – Nov
- RangeChiricahua MountainsArizona
Climbing the Rustler Park via Crest Trail
From Willcox, Arizona, drive into the Chiricahua Mountains and follow forest roads to Rustler Park; high clearance is helpful on the final miles. From there the Crest Trail is a Class 1 walk through cool pine and fir forest to the wooded summit. This is a sky island, so weather shifts quickly with storms, wind, and chilly summit temperatures even after hot mornings. Watch footing on loose rock and stay aware of exposure along the crest. The range is remote, so carry water and a filter, start early, and keep an eye on building afternoon clouds.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Hiking Boots
Base Layer
Midlayer
Hardshell Jacket
Sun Hat
Warm Hat
Buff
Light Gloves
Trekking Poles
Headlamp
GPS Device
Satellite Communicator
Power Bank
Offline Maps
Water
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Steep exposure
- Storms
- High winds
- Slippery terrain
- Cold summit conditions
- Remote location
- Dry conditions
- Rattlesnakes
- Insects
Quests with Chiricahua Peak
Lower 48 UltrasFrequently asked questions
How tall is Chiricahua Peak?
Chiricahua Peak is 9,759 feet (2,974 m) tall. It is in the Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona.
How hard is it to hike Chiricahua Peak?
The Rustler Park via Crest Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 10 miles with 2,142 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Chiricahua Peak?
Most people take 7 – 9 hours round trip on the Rustler Park via Crest Trail, covering 10 miles with 2,142 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Chiricahua Peak?
The Rustler Park via Crest Trail needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard day: 10 miles with 2,142 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
When is the best time to hike Chiricahua Peak?
The usual hiking window is April to November. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Chiricahua Peak?
The Rustler Park via Crest Trail starts at about 8,440 feet, roughly 1,319 feet below the summit.
Climb Chiricahua Peak with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list