Next time you’re in the mood to discover something new in Arizona, head to Coronado National Memorial in Hereford. This remote, little-known national park is already a hidden gem, but the cave tucked away inside it is even more of a secret. Follow a short and sweet trail to an underground chamber inhabited for up to 8,000 years and marvel at its ancient history.
Coronado National Memorial is already one of the least-visited National Park units in Arizona, but even fewer people are aware there’s a secret cave hidden on the grounds.
AllTrails/Jessica Ellamarie A moderate, one-mile hike is all it takes to reach the cave, and the trail begins just west of the visitor center. It’s hard to believe almost no one knows it exists!
The trail features an elevation gain of around 500 feet - it’s a gradual ascent, so you’ll have plenty of energy left over to take in the views.
AllTrails/David Kemsley Lofty mountains rise up in all directions, their peaks threatening to pierce through the atmosphere and tickle the clouds.
Eventually, you will come to a set of natural stairs that leads to the cave’s entrance.
AllTrails/David Kemsley You almost have to squint to see the opening - that’s how hidden it is.
Some light rock scrambling is required to descend into the cave, but it’s nothing too strenuous.
AllTrails/Craig Killarzoac As you begin to lower yourself down, you’ll see just how vast this ancient underground chamber is. One of the last remaining undeveloped caves in southern Arizona, it’s 600 feet long and up to 70 feet wide.
The cave is thought to have been used for shelter up to 8,000 years ago, and more recently by Apache peoples, Mexican and European miners, and settlers.
AllTrails/David Kemsley No archaeological evidence remains, but the mere possibility of walking in the footsteps of those who lived long ago is incredible.
Inside, you’ll see a variety of fascinating speleothems, including stalactites and stalagmites.
AllTrails/Igor Moll Formed over eons, these unique formations are absolutely breathtaking to behold. Shine your flashlight to appreciate their intricacies - and always remember to look, but don’t touch!
Visit the park’s website or Facebook page for more information, such as hours and entrance fees. You’ll find an interactive map of the trail on AllTrails.
AllTrails/Jessica Ellamarie
A moderate, one-mile hike is all it takes to reach the cave, and the trail begins just west of the visitor center. It’s hard to believe almost no one knows it exists!
AllTrails/David Kemsley
Lofty mountains rise up in all directions, their peaks threatening to pierce through the atmosphere and tickle the clouds.
You almost have to squint to see the opening - that’s how hidden it is.
AllTrails/Craig Killarzoac
As you begin to lower yourself down, you’ll see just how vast this ancient underground chamber is. One of the last remaining undeveloped caves in southern Arizona, it’s 600 feet long and up to 70 feet wide.
No archaeological evidence remains, but the mere possibility of walking in the footsteps of those who lived long ago is incredible.
AllTrails/Igor Moll
Formed over eons, these unique formations are absolutely breathtaking to behold. Shine your flashlight to appreciate their intricacies - and always remember to look, but don’t touch!
Have you ever explored the cave at Coronado National Memorial? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for another hidden cave in Arizona.
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Address: Coronado National Memorial, 4101 W Montezuma Canyon Rd, Hereford, AZ 85615, USA
