Nestled in the southeastern corner of Arizona, Cochise County offers a captivating blend of rugged landscapes, rich history, and unique small-town charm. From the towering rock formations of Chiricahua National Monument to the historic streets of Bisbee, this region invites travelers to slow down and venture off the beaten path.
This story was created in partnership with Explore Cochise.
Sierra Vista: A Birder’s Paradise
Sierra Vista, aptly named “The Hummingbird Capital of the World,” is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The Ramsey Canyon Preserve is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 150 bird species recorded. For a low-impact experience, consider joining a guided birding tour led by local naturalists, or simply enjoy the serene trails that meander through lush oak woodlands.
For more fast-paced activities, Sierra Vista also offers exciting mountain biking trails for all skill levels to enjoy. Head over to Sun and Spoke for all your bike rental needs, then go to Brown Canyon Ranch for flowy single-track trails and stunning views over the valley.
Sustainable Tip: Stay at eco-conscious accommodations like the Ramsey Canyon Inn, which supports conservation efforts, and dine at locally-owned eateries to support the community.
Willcox: Wild West and Wineries
Once a cattle ranching hub, Willcox has reinvented itself as a destination for wine lovers. Willcox Wine Country features family-run vineyards like Keeling Schaefer and Zarpara, which produce award-winning wines in a picturesque setting.
If you’re looking for a fun event to plan your travels around this spring, check out the Willcox West Fest. Held every April, this lively festival celebrates Willcox’s rich cowboy heritage and agricultural roots. With highlights like chuckwagon cooking and rodeo events the festival brings the community together in a joyful tribute to its history. Sustainable travelers can enjoy the festivities while supporting local vendors, who proudly share handcrafted goods, farm-fresh produce, and authentic Southwest flavors.
Sustainable Tip: Opt for e-bike rentals to tour vineyards and reduce your carbon footprint. Many wineries offer refillable wine growlers, minimizing packaging waste.
Douglas: Boarder Town Beauty
Sitting at the U.S.-Mexico border, Douglas blends cultures and perspectives, bringing a unique artistic flair to the area. A standout is Art Car World, a museum showcasing creatively transformed automobiles as rolling works of art, blending engineering with boundary-pushing creativity.
Douglas is also a gateway to Chiricahua National Monument, renowned for its dramatic rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. Just a short drive from town, visitors can explore the “Wonderland of Rocks,” a serene landscape perfect for photography and outdoor adventures. Additionally, Douglas offers gravel biking enthusiasts a network of quiet dirt roads, including the popular Geronimo Trail, where cyclists can enjoy breathtaking views of the borderlands and local wildlife.
Sustainable Tip: Bring reusable gear and support local businesses like bike shops. Consider joining locally organized gravel rides to connect with the community and explore the best trails.
Benson: Gateway to Kartchner Caverns
Benson, a quaint town steeped in Old West history, serves as both a tranquil escape and a hub for exploration in Cochise County. For a scenic detour, take the historic Butterfield Overland Stage Route, once a vital link for mail and passengers crossing the untamed frontier. Stargazers will also appreciate Benson’s dark skies, ideal for celestial viewing at the nearby Vega–Bray Observatory or on your own under the expansive Arizona night.
Photo Credit: Chris Hardy
Benson also serves as the entryway to Kartchner Caverns State Park, a living cave system containing stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The park is a model for eco-tourism, with guided tours designed to protect the cave’s delicate ecosystem.
Sustainable Tip: Book tickets for Kartchner Caverns in advance to ensure availability and support ongoing conservation programs.
Bisbee: Art, History, and Adventure
Nestled in the Mule Mountains, Bisbee is a quirky, artistic town that blends its rich mining history with modern creativity. The thriving art scene features galleries, boutiques, and vibrant murals, turning Bisbee into an open-air museum. History enthusiasts can explore the Copper Queen Mine with guided tours deep into the tunnels, offering a glimpse into its mining past.
For outdoor lovers, Bisbee offers more than just history and art. The Bisbee 1000 Stair Climb, an annual event, celebrates the town’s steep topography with over 1,000 steps leading through hills and providing stunning views of the surrounding desert. Gravel bikers can discover scenic, less-traveled roads into the mountains or explore trails in the nearby Coronado National Forest.
Sustainability Tip: Embrace eco-friendly travel options, such as renting e-bikes to navigate the steep streets or supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability.
