The Fort Bowie Visitor Center is open Thursday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm MST, and it is closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during the summer season.
There is no entrance fee to visit Fort Bowie National Historic Site. It is free for all visitors.
From Tucson, take I-10 east for 116 miles, exit at Bowie, and follow Apache Pass Rd for 13 miles to the trailhead, embarking on a historic hike through Apache Pass.
At Fort Bowie, the main parking lot is on Apache Pass Road, a 3-mile hike from the visitor center. No parking for RVs, trailers, or buses. Cars and motorcycles only. No overnight parking. No parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Fort Bowie National Historic Site, situated in the arid yet breathtaking landscape of southeastern Arizona, is a testament to the complex and often tumultuous history between the U.S. Army and the Chiricahua Apache. This historic site, now a protected national treasure, stands near the present-day town of Willcox, Arizona, and offers a profound immersion into the clash of cultures that defined this region.
As visitors embark on the 3-mile scenic loop trail, they traverse a terrain that was once the epicenter of military operations and tribal resistance. The trail winds through a desert landscape dotted with cacti and scrubby bushes, occasionally revealing remnants of the fort’s past, including adobe barracks, houses, and a hospital. The air is filled with the songs of desert birds and the rustle of wildlife, such as coyotes and rattlesnakes, that inhabit this harsh yet beautiful environment.
Established in 1862 by the California Volunteers, Fort Bowie played a pivotal role in the battles against the Chiricahua Apaches, culminating in the surrender of Geronimo in 1886. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the fort, which include substantial adobe structures built on a plateau overlooking Apache Pass. The visitor center offers insightful exhibits and a chance to view local wildlife, enhancing the historical and natural significance of the site.
Seasonal changes bring unique experiences; spring blooms with vibrant desert flowers, while summer heats up the landscape, making early morning or late afternoon visits preferable. Autumn brings a mild climate ideal for hiking, and winter offers a serene tranquility with cooler temperatures.
While in the area, travelers should visit the nearby town of Willcox, known for its artisan shops and local eateries. For outdoor enthusiasts, local outfitters offer guided hikes and horseback rides through the surrounding desert landscapes. The site also hosts ranger-led tours and historical reenactments, providing a deeper connection to the site’s rich history.
Fort Bowie National Historic Site is more than a historical landmark; it is an immersive experience that combines the natural beauty of the desert with the profound cultural significance of a pivotal moment in American history. It is a place where the past and present converge, offering an unforgettable journey for those seeking to explore the complexities of our shared heritage.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.6
- Established year
- 1972
Top 3 Facts about Fort Bowie National Historic Site
The first fort, established in 1862, had stone wall defenses averaging 4.5 feet in height, with soldiers living in tents and later in partial dugouts on a hillside with stone and adobe walls and roofs made of dirt and branches.
In this desert-grassland nexus, mountain lions, white-tailed deer, and black bears roam through oak and juniper woodlands, while Mexican species like coatimundis thrive at the edge of their range. Chaparral and woodland slopes are dotted with point-leaf manzanita, Mexican pinyon pines, and junipers. Riparian woodlands along canyon bottoms feature velvet ash and netleaf hackberry, supporting a vibrant array of pollinators, birds, and wildlife. Prickly pear cactus, agave, and ocotillo color the rocky slopes, enriched by perennial springs. This diverse tapestry of flora and fauna creates a rich, immersive natural experience.
Elevations rise from 4,550 to 5,250 feet, with the Apache Pass Fault forming a visible fissure that feeds Apache and Siphon Springs, creating a lush oasis amidst the high desert grasslands and rocky slopes adorned with prickly pear cactus, agave, and ocotillo. The landscape transitions seamlessly from desert to grasslands and woodlands, hosting a diverse array of flora and fauna.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Volunteer & Stewardship
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a half-day visit, ideally in cooler spring or fall seasons. Allow 3-5 hours for the 3-mile hike, including stops at historic sites and the visitor center. Bring water, snacks, and wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain. Check visitor center hours and stamp your National Park Passport outside if needed.
Pack Appropriately
Pack lightweight, UV-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sturdy hiking boots. Bring ample water, extra food, a first aid kit, and sun protection. For longer stays, include a map, compass, and emergency shelter. Check the season for layered clothing needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the fragile desert ecosystem by staying on marked trails, avoiding wildlife encounters, and bringing ample water to minimize impact during hot seasons. Leave no trace, and enjoy the unique flora and fauna.
Stay Informed
Be prepared for extreme temperatures, sudden storms, and rattlesnakes. Carry water, sun protection, and stay informed about weather and park rules. Avoid hiking during lightning and contact park authorities or call 911 in emergencies.
Seasons
In spring, hike 1.5 miles through blooming desert landscapes to historic ruins, with mild temperatures (60s-80s°F) and occasional rain. No specific spring events, but ideal weather makes it a prime time to visit.
Explore historic trails and Apache Spring amid summer monsoons, with temperatures often over 100°F. July’s heavy downpours bring vivid wildflowers, but be prepared for frequent storms. No specific summer events, but the scenic hike is rewarding despite the heat.
Visit in fall, from September to November, when temperatures range from 70 to 90°F, offering mild and comfortable weather. Enjoy the scenic 3-mile hike amidst the changing colors and attend the annual Apache Days event, celebrating Indigenous culture and history. Ideal for a reflective and immersive experience.
Visit from December to February for crisp winter days with temperatures in the 40s-60s°F. Occasionally, snow dusts the landscape, adding a serene beauty to the historical trails and ruins, making it an ideal time for a tranquil and immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Fort Bowie National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Fort Bowie is Willcox, Arizona, which is about 25 miles away. Fort Bowie is also 100 miles east of Tucson, Arizona, but Willcox is the nearest town.
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Yes, dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when on the trails. They are not allowed in the Visitor Center. Owners must clean up after their dogs.
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You cannot park an RV, camper, or trailer within the park. Nearby towns of Wilcox and Bowie have facilities for RVs and campers. The administrative area does not allow RVs, trailers, or buses.
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Fort Bowie was established in 1862 following the Bascom Affair in 1861 and the Battle of Apache Pass in July 1862, where a Union regiment was ambushed by Cochise’s Apache warriors. The fort was a key location for military operations against the Chiricahua Apaches, led by Cochise until his peace agreement in 1872 and later by Geronimo, who surrendered in 1886. The Chiricahua Apaches were subsequently banished to Florida and Alabama, and the fort was abandoned in 1894.