Fort Bowie National Historic Site - Arizona

Address:3203 South Old Fort Bowie Road
Bowie, Arizona
Tel: (520) 847-2500

Remember the Chiricahua Apache-U.S. military conflict and ponder the cultural clash between a young nation and the natives who lived here on a hike up to Fort Bowie!

Fort Bowie was established in 1862 to ensure the safe passage of the slow-moving Butterfield Stage, which carried mail, passengers, and freight across the Southwest in the mid-1800s. The Butterfield Stage traversed this difficult desert region as Fort Bowie protected the water source for cavalry going east to fight the Confederate Army in New Mexico. Later, it was at Fort Bowie that federal troops battled Geronimo until the Apache chief surrendered in 1886. Today, visitors can explore this fascinating site, where the elevation is about 5000 feet; there is a lot of upper Sonoran Desert terrain, along with big trees and dense vegetation. Along the hike, you'll encounter the post cemetery which contains the remains of both soldiers and Native Americans and the site of the original Fort Bowie, where the view of the surrounding area is stunning. A more permanent and modern Fort Bowie was constructed about 1/4 mile away from the original, and contained 38 structures by the time the military abandoned the fort in 1894. There is also a small but fascinating museum, with lots of photos exhibited, to give you a better idea of life around the fort. On the hike back down, try the alternate route back to the parking area which requires a little climb up a hill behind the fort, but has the best view of the area. Remember—as with any hike within about a 300 mile radius, this isn't a hike for the summer due to the intense heat and always bring plenty of water along for your adventure.

To get to Fort Bowie National Historic Site from Willcox, Arizona, drive southeast State Road 186 for about 20 minutes, until you hit the Fort Bowie turn off. Take the exit and then drive eight miles on the unpaved road straight to the Fort Bowie Trailhead. Be prepared to walk the three miles round trip to the ruins and back to your car. Wear good shoes, bring water and a snack, and enjoy the magnificent views!