Best Day Trips and Getaways in Cochise County

I used to judge a good weekend by how much activity I had packed into it. Seeing concerts, going to clubs, nonstop visits with friends and family—all seemed like the measure of a time well spent.

These days, a good weekend for me is a break from the busy grind and everyday stress. Getting away from it all doesn’t have to mean a long drive and an expensive weekend away. Cochise County is full of places to unplug, take a deep breath, and enjoy some of Arizona's most beautiful scenery.

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Take a Day Trip to Ramsey Canyon

I live close to the Huachuca Mountains and watch the sunset turn to honey and drip behind these Thunder Mountains. Because they’re so close, it’s easy to take them for granted, but they’re also an easy getaway.

Nestled in the Huachuca Mountains is Ramsey Canyon Preserve. A short drive from downtown Sierra Vista, the area is known for cooler temperatures, shady trails, and remarkable biodiversity of the unique sky islands.

The Huachuca Mountains | Photo by Val Davidson/TSM

This ecological crossroads, where mountain and desert ecosystems meet, creates habitats for hummingbirds, deer, and countless other species. A spring-fed creek and towering sycamores make it feel worlds away from the surrounding desert.

Relax and Unwind in Bisbee

When I’m looking for local entertainment and events at just the right pace, I head to Bisbee. Bisbee celebrates the most random events, like Bisbee Pirate Weekend and the Return of the Turkey Vultures.

The historic town of Bisbee offers a slower pace and an abundance of charm. This former mining community is now known for its art galleries, colorful hillsides, historic buildings, and locally owned shops.

It’s the perfect place to spend hours exploring winding streets, unique neighborhoods, and the town's rich copper-mining history. Unique dining and treats, plus local hiking trails, make Bisbee the perfect place for a day trip or a weekend visit.

Discover the Sky Islands at the Chiricahua National Monument

You won’t believe your eyes when you visit this fascinating National Monument. Known as the "Wonderland of Rocks," Chiricahua National Monument has towering rock pinnacles everywhere. The structures and columns appear to defy gravity.

Go for a scenic drive, hike the many trails, and enjoy some of Southern Arizona's best stargazing opportunities. The monument's dramatic volcanic rock formations create one of the state's most memorable landscapes.

Darks Skies, Deep Caves at Kartchner Caverns State Park

At Kartchner Caverns State Park, visitors can experience one of Arizona's most impressive living limestone caves.

Be sure to join a guided tour to see this impressive cave system for yourself. You’ll get a peek at this showcase of delicate rock formations that are still growing today.