Garden Canyon

Garden Canyon lies in the Huachuca Mountains, in Fort Huachuca. The canyon is well maintained by the fort. It has a variety of plant and wildlife. Visitors will see wildflowers, mammals and birds. Garden Canyon is known for its butterflies. As a matter of fact, a butterfly checklist of f Fort Huachuca was published in 1997.

During a visit to Garden Canyon, you might run across mule deer, pronghorns and javelinas. In one section of the canyon called the Upper Picnic Area, visitors will encounter a terrific birding area. The Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher, Elegant Trogon and the Painted Redstart are some of the unique birds found in this spot. If you want to continue past the Upper Picnic Area, along Scheelite Canyon Trail, it is advisable to have a four-wheel drive vehicle because the road is not maintained. In this part of the canyon, you might see Mexican Spotted Owls.

The canyon is home to many ongoing archaeological studies, especially at a prehistoric village near the opening of the canyon. You can see rock paintings at higher elevations in the canyon. Some of the art is dated back to 1200 AD. There is a white eagle painting believed to be done by Apaches in the 18th century. Drivers will however have to show proof of insurance, vehicle registration and a driver’s license at the fort’s gate.