The Chiricahua Mountains are situated in an unique location where the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts meet. The mountains are also found between the Rockies and Mexico's Sierra Madres. This area, lying above a fracture zone, received a cataclysmic event 25 million years ago. The eruption showered the 1,200 square mile region with lava, ash and volcanic tuff.
     The Echo Canyon Loop Trail in Chiricahua National Monument is considered a moderate hike at three miles. The trail was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936, and is considered a masterpiece in trail design. The Echo Canyon begins as a gentle descent towards the Grottoes and Wall Street. Here, the terrain is covered with a wonderful display of gigantic rhyolitic rocks, hoodoos and spires. Volcanic boulders remain on their perches overhead, leaving the mind to wonder when will gravity and erosion dislodge the next balanced rock. The next stop is Echo Park.