From your post I think some people might get confused as to what the Stronghold is. It is not a particular spot or place, it is the entire mountain range of the Dragoons but primarily the East and West Canyon with everything in-between.

The area became known as Cochise’s Stronghold because he lived there during the winter months. From the peaks it was very easy to see the enemy coming across the desert floor. Cochise, his family and followers were able to evade all comers by disappearing into the rugged terrain.

The Dragoons are a magical place and I am pleased that you too felt at home there. Perhaps we shall meet there someday?

I used to live in the Stronghold Canyon (1/4 mile before the campground) as a child in the 1980’s. I now live in rainy Portland, OR. Oregon has its beauty as well, but, boy do I miss that boulder-hopping on a sunny day in my backyard as a child!

I just got back from hiking the Cochise Trail. It was beautiful. I only made it to the second mile marker. I was beginning to worry because it was 3:30p and I wasn’t sure where the trail ended. There is no real information or map about the trail available. At some points the trail is unclear and I had to backtrack a couple of times. Do you remember the point where the trail changes from east to west and you come up out of the forest and you see that you are surrounded by beautiful green mountains and stone? That’s where I saw an eagle riding the winds. On the way back I saw a deer nibbling leaves off a tree. What an experience. Someday I want to finish the trek.

Rick