Hiking is the biggest attraction at the memorial, located at the south end of the Huachuca Mountains. Francisco Vasquez de Coronado led an expedition through this area in 1540 in what turned out to be an unsuccessful search for the mythical Seven Cities of Cibola. The memorial's visitor center illustrates the story of Coronado's travels, the first major European exploration of the American Southwest. Coronado Cave Trail climbs up a trail behind the visitor center to a limestone cave in 1.5 miles round-trip with a 470-foot elevation gain; check regulations and obtain the required free permit before heading out. The cave has not been developed, so you'll need to bring flashlights (sold at the visitor center). For the best views, head west up to the Montezuma Pass via a 3.2-mile drive or Joe's Canyon Trail (3.1 miles one-way with a 1,345-foot climb). At the pass, Coronado Peak Trail heads south to the summit. At the top, you’ll be able to take in outstanding views of Arizona and nearby Mexico; interpretive signs have quotes by Coronado and his men about their experiences.

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