Cochise Stronghold Trailhead Cochise, AZ 85606

"Rugged. I would not take children to hike or even walk trails. For the experienced hiker. It will help you appreciate the Stronghold if you learn its history first. Be careful to not trespass onto private property, though it's easy to accidentally do. Most residents are nice, but some aren't. This isn't like State Parks where you have amenities. This is a National Forest, and the difference is noticeable. I don't want to sound too negative. It's a beautiful place with wildlife galore. Enjoy it for what it is, and please find the Peace that exists there."

"This is a great place to hike. Great views moderate to hard, but you can make it a short hike or an eleven mile hard hike if you want. The dam was dry in 2023 but was full in 2022."

"March 2022 - The gravel road in was rough and pot-holed in some places, but taking it slow in our 25' motorhome, we made it just fine. Since we were there to hike, we parked about a half-mile before the campground, hoping to avoid any tight spots or low branches in the CG. This worked for us. At the campground, there was a display of the area's history, a great nature trail that branched off to a trail up towards the pass. We really enjoyed the hike -- the rocks, the 'alligator juniper' and other vegetation. My dog and I spotted several Coatimundi. There was some water for our dog near the springs along the way. We didn't go all the way to the pass. This was a good outing from Wilcox, AZ where were were staying."

"Really enjoyed this area. Roundtrip from the campground to the parking at Cochise West was just under 10 miles. The trail was nicely maintained, not many people out but it was Superbowl Sunday. Our only complaint is our rig is too large to drive into the campground! It seemed funny that you drive down a high clearance vehicle dirt road to a paved with concrete curbs campground. It's amazing what you can find in the desert!"