Geronimo Trail

Those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of life will enjoy Geronimo Trail. Starting outside Douglas, AZ, this remote trail follows winding dirt roads, passes several historic sites, and ends in New Mexico. The first ten miles of this trail run parallel to the U.S. and Mexico border and comes within 200m of the border wall. Travelers have a clear view of Mexican Federal Highway 2, which runs parallel to this trail on the opposite side of the wall. History buffs will enjoy seeing monuments dedicated to the Mormon Battalion, which passed through this area in the 1840s. John Slaughter, a well-known lawman in nearby Tombstone, AZ, also made this area his home. Those interested can visit the Slaughter Ranch Museum, which lies along the Geronimo Trail. The museum costs $5 and is worth the time to visit. After passing the Slaughter Ranch Museum entrance, the trail shifts north and winds its way towards the Peloncillo Mountains. Scenery rapidly changes from the relatively flat grasslands of the San Bernadino Valley to dramatic rock formations. The trail follows a creek bed, and sycamores, oaks, and juniper trees become more common as the trail gains elevation. In the monsoon season, the creek beds become low water crossing points. There are approximately 7-10 of them throughout the trail. A monument separates the border of Arizona and New Mexico and is not far from where Geronimo surrendered to U.S. Soldiers. One final historical marker is dedicated to the Mormon Battalion at the Clanton Draw. In 1846, the Mormon Battalion traversed this terrain by unloading their wagons and lowering them down a 40 percent grade with ropes. No 4x4 is required, but having a vehicle with higher ground clearance will make the ride smoother. There are multiple dispersed campsites along this trail, but the best are found in the Whitmire and Guadalupe Canyon Wilderness Areas. These locations are first come, first serve.