Chiricahua Becomes America’s Newest National Park

The U.S. is celebrating its 64th national park. Where is the latest addition to the country's impressive network of national parks located? Here is what you need to know.

Chiricahua National Monument is Now Chiricahua National Park

Chiricahua National Park officially became the country's 64th national park on Tuesday. Located in the southeastern corner of Arizona near the community of Willcox, this is now the state's fourth national park.

This part of Arizona had been protected as a national monument of the same name for over 100 years. President Donald Trump signed the Chiricahua National Park Act into law, completing the transition from a national monument to a national park.

The park has often been described as a "Wonderland of Rocks" in reference to the dominant rock spires that soar into the air. The area is also home to several balanced rock formations that were created after a volcanic eruption believed to have happened about 27 million years ago.

Stretching across about 12,000 acres, the sprawling park is home to wildlife such as black bears, mountain lions, coyotes, bats, golden eagles, falcons, and various reptiles. The region also boasts a storied cultural history with strong roots in the Indigenous peoples of Arizona.

Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum marked the occasion with a press release that said: “Chiricahua’s towering rock spires, rich Apache heritage, and remarkable biodiversity make it one of America’s most extraordinary landscapes."

President Calvin Coolidge designated the site as a national monument on April 18, 1924. This designation helped to preserve the rich history of the Chiricahua Apache and Faraway Ranch.