Coronado National Memorial is located in southern Arizona, near the border with Mexico. It is situated in the Huachuca Mountains, approximately 17 miles from the city of Sierra Vista.
The memorial commemorates the expedition of the Spanish conquistador Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, who led the first European exploration into the American Southwest in search of the legendary Seven Cities of Gold in 1540-1542. Although Coronado never found the fabled cities, his journey played a significant role in the expansion of Spanish influence in the New World.
Visitors to Coronado National Memorial can explore various historical sites and learn about the expedition through interactive exhibits at the visitor center. The memorial features a replica of the Coronado Cave, which can be accessed by guided tours. This cave is believed to be the place where Coronado's soldiers sought shelter during their expedition. Hiking trails, including the Coronado Peak Trail, provide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Besides its historical significance, Coronado National Memorial offers a range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing in the memorial's scenic landscape. The region is known for its diverse plant and animal life, including rare species such as the Mexican spotted owl.
There are several attractions near Coronado National Memorial that are worth exploring. Just north of the memorial, visitors can visit the scenic Montezuma Pass Overlook, providing stunning views of the San Pedro River Valley. Nearby, the town of Sierra Vista offers additional recreational opportunities, including golf courses, shopping centers, and dining options. Additionally, the internationally recognized birding destination, Ramsey Canyon Preserve, is located a short drive away and attracts bird enthusiasts from around the world.
Overall, Coronado National Memorial offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of European exploration in America, while also providing visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Arizona's Huachuca Mountains.
Coronado National Memorial is situated in the southeastern region of Arizona, United States. Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Huachuca Mountains, the memorial sprawls across diverse landscapes that span an elevation range of approximately 3,800 to 9,446 feet. This stunning location offers visitors an opportunity to explore a rich mix of geographical features, including rugged canyons, verdant forests, and sweeping vistas. The memorial is bordered by the majestic San Pedro River Valley to the east and the fertile San Rafael Valley to the west, providing a picturesque backdrop to its natural wonders. With its strategic placement, Coronado National Memorial allows visitors to experience the dynamic beauty of Arizona's unique and diverse geographical offerings.
4101 E Montezuma Canyon RoadHereford, AZ 85615Driving DirectionsPhone: 5203665515Web: Link
The best time to visit Coronado National Memorial is in March and April. During these months, the average maximum temperature ranges from 72°F to 79°F, and the average minimum temperature ranges from 37°F to 43°F. The average monthly precipitation is low, ranging from 0.2 in to 0.5 in. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities while avoiding large crowds.
Some of the activities you can do in Coronado National Memorial are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Biking Road Biking Hiking Auto and ATV Scenic Driving Caving
Learn about these topics at Coronado National Memorial: Animals Birds Caves, Caverns and Karst Geology Explorers and Expeditions Watersheds Scenic Views Monuments and Memorials
The visitor center includes in-depth exhibits on the Coronado Expedition of 1540-1542, as well as thorough information about the natural history of the park. There are hands-on displays of 16th century clothing and armor for visitors to try on, and interactive exhibits in English and Spanish. A 14-foot picture window provides visitors with a wonderful opportunity to view and photograph the flora and fauna in a relaxed atmosphere.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Coronado National Memorial Visitor Center.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
With a stay at Comfort Inn & Suites Sierra Vista Near Ft Huachuca in Sierra Vista, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of The Mall At Sierra Vista and Caynyon Vista Medical Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a computer station, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3500 E. FRY BLVD., Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635-29
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A stay at Sierra Inn places you in the heart of Sierra Vista, within a 5-minute drive of The Mall At Sierra Vista and Caynyon Vista Medical Center. Featured amenities include wired Internet access (surcharge), a 24-hour business center, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3460 E Fry Blvd, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635
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Located in Sierra Vista, Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Sierra Vista is a 3-minute drive from The Mall At Sierra Vista and 6 minutes from Caynyon Vista Medical Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Sierra Vista? This hotel has facilities measuring 500 square feet (45 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3855 El Mercado Loop, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635
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A stay at Towneplace Suites by Marriott Sierra Vista places you in the heart of Sierra Vista, a 2-minute drive from The Mall At Sierra Vista and 6 minutes from Fort Huachuca Military Base. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3399 Rodeo Dr, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635
Web: Link
Located in Sierra Vista, Hampton Inn Sierra Vista is within a 5-minute drive of The Mall At Sierra Vista and University of Arizona South. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-in. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 4100 Snyder Blvd, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635
Web: Link
A stay at Holiday Inn Express Sierra Vista, an IHG Hotel places you in the heart of Sierra Vista, a 1-minute drive from The Mall At Sierra Vista and 6 minutes from Caynyon Vista Medical Center. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1902 S Hwy 92, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635
Web: Link
A stay at Candlewood Suites Sierra Vista, an IHG Hotel places you in the heart of Sierra Vista, a 1-minute drive from The Mall At Sierra Vista and 6 minutes from Caynyon Vista Medical Center. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1904 S Highway 92, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635
Web: Link
Located in Sierra Vista, Knights Inn Sierra Vista is a 3-minute drive from Fort Huachuca Military Base and 5 minutes from University of Arizona South. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1551 E Fry Boulevard, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635
Web: Link
A stay at Windemere Hotel & Conference Center places you in the heart of Sierra Vista, a 1-minute drive from The Mall At Sierra Vista and 6 minutes from Fort Huachuca Military Base. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2047 South Highway 92, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635
Web: Link
Located in Sierra Vista, Casa Antigua Condos-Sierra Vistas Finest is in a shopping district, a 2-minute drive from The Mall At Sierra Vista and 6 minutes from Fort Huachuca Military Base. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2299 Oakmont Drive, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635
Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2026-04-10 | Yaqui Ridge Trail Closure (Beginning April 13) Due to nearby construction and blasting, the 1-mile Yaqui Ridge Trail will be closed starting April 13, 2026 until further notice to ensure visitor safety. The closure begins at the junction with Joe’s Canyon Trail, and access beyond this point is not permitted. This affects access to the southern terminus of the Arizona National Scenic Trail. |
| 2026-03-18 | Blasting in Memorial Blasting activity is occurring in the Coronado National Forest, Huachuca Mountains, and within Coronado National Memorial. Visitors may hear loud noise and notice dust in the air. |
| 2024-03-08 | Montezuma Pass Road Temporary Closure Repairs to the two-mile dirt road section of Montezuma Canyon Road within Coronado National Memorial are scheduled to start on Monday, March 18, 2024. More |
| 2023-03-22 | Temporary Closure of Montezuma Canyon Road Repairs to the two-mile dirt road section of Montezuma Canyon Road within Coronado National Memorial are scheduled to start on Monday, April 10, 2023. More |
| 2023-02-08 | Be Aware of Illegal Traffic Smuggling and/or illegal entry is common in this area due to the proximity of the international border. Please be aware of your surroundings at all times and do not travel alone in remote areas. More |